The Best Daycare Centers in Sheridan, AR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Sheridan. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Sheridan
Kidz Harbor Learning Center
Independent
Kidz Harbor Learning Center is Sheridan's premier locally-owned childcare facility offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. The center features a research-based curriculum that emphasizes literacy development, STEM activities, and social-emotional learning. Their experienced teaching staff maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and holds CPR/first aid certifications. The facility includes secure access systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and modern classrooms with interactive learning centers. They provide nutritious meals and snacks through their in-house food program and maintain strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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First Baptist Church Preschool & Child Development Center
First Baptist Church of Sheridan
Operating as a ministry of First Baptist Church, this center provides faith-based early childhood education with a focus on whole-child development. The curriculum integrates Christian values with academic preparation, including phonics, early math concepts, and social skills development. The center features experienced educators with background checks and ongoing professional development. Facilities include secure classrooms, age-separated playgrounds, and a dedicated nap room. The program emphasizes character development, community involvement, and family support services with flexible scheduling options for working parents.
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Malvern Kindercare
KinderCare Education
As part of the nationally recognized KinderCare network, this Malvern location serves families throughout Grant County including Sheridan. The center implements KinderCare's proprietary Early Foundations curriculum focusing on literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts. Their team includes degreed early childhood educators who receive ongoing professional development. The facility features secure keypad entry, comprehensive safety protocols, and developmentally appropriate learning environments. They offer balanced meal programs and maintain strong communication through parent portals and regular updates. The center provides transportation for school-age children and serves as a reliable option for Sheridan commuters.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Sheridan, AR
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Sheridan, Arkansas, and how can I verify a facility is in good standing?
In Sheridan, Arkansas, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS), Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education. This includes family home providers (caring for 6-16 children) and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and training. To verify a facility's license and compliance history, you can use the **DHS Child Care Facility Search** tool online. You can search by city (Sheridan) and review any monitoring reports or non-compliance issues. It's highly recommended to check this before enrolling your child.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Sheridan, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Sheridan and the surrounding Grant County area, average costs for full-time daycare typically range from **$110 to $150 per week** for infants and toddlers. Prices can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and age of the child. For financial assistance, the primary program is the Arkansas **Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)**, administered by DHS. Eligibility is based on income, work, or school attendance. Local providers in Sheridan often accept CCAP subsidies. Additionally, you can contact the **Grant County DHS Office** for application guidance and to check for any local scholarships or sliding-scale fee programs offered by individual centers or churches.
Are there many daycare options with extended hours or weekend care available in Sheridan for parents with non-traditional work schedules?
Options for extended hours (beyond 6:00 PM) or weekend care in Sheridan are quite limited. Most licensed childcare centers and home providers operate on a standard weekday schedule, typically from around 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM. For parents with shift work, evenings, or weekend needs, your best bet is to inquire directly with individual home-based providers, as they may offer more flexible arrangements. There is no dedicated 24-hour facility in Sheridan. Networking through local parent groups on social media or contacting the **Sheridan Chamber of Commerce** for referrals is a practical step to find a provider who might accommodate atypical hours.
What types of preschool or early learning programs are integrated into daycare services in Sheridan, and how do I know if a program is high-quality?
Several daycare centers in Sheridan offer integrated preschool programs for children ages 3-5, often following curricula like **ABC Mouse**, **Creative Curriculum**, or state-approved school readiness frameworks. To assess quality, look for providers participating in the **Arkansas Better Beginnings** quality rating and improvement system. A higher star rating (1-3 stars) indicates a program that exceeds minimum licensing standards in areas like learning environment, professional development, and family engagement. You can also ask about staff qualifications (e.g., Child Development Associate credentials), daily structure, and how they track developmental milestones. Visiting the facility and observing interactions is key.
How long are typical waitlists for infant care at daycare centers in Sheridan, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Due to stricter staff-to-child ratios for infants, waitlists for infant care (children under 18 months) at the more popular licensed centers in Sheridan can be significant, often ranging from **3 to 9 months**. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists **as early as possible during your pregnancy**, ideally by the second trimester. Many facilities in town have a limited number of infant slots. When touring, ask specifically about their waitlist process, any fees to hold a spot, and how often they update families on their position. Exploring both center-based and licensed family home options can increase your chances of securing care.