The Best Daycare Centers in Summers, AR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Summers. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Summers
The Goddard School of Bentonville
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Bentonville offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Their state-licensed teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and maintain low student-teacher ratios. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and modern classrooms with interactive technology. They emphasize STEAM learning, foreign language exposure, and character development through play-based curriculum. The center provides nutritious meals and maintains rigorous safety protocols including regular security drills and comprehensive background checks for all staff.
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Primrose School of Rogers
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Rogers follows the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, math, science, and social studies while developing character and life skills. The school features secure facilities with coded entry systems, indoor gymnasiums, and age-separated outdoor learning environments. All lead teachers have early childhood education credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. The center offers balanced meals and snacks prepared in their commercial kitchen, and maintains comprehensive safety protocols including regular health screenings and emergency preparedness training.
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The Growing Tree
Independent Ownership
The Growing Tree provides a nurturing, family-oriented environment with a comprehensive curriculum that prepares children for academic success. Their experienced educators implement developmentally appropriate practices through hands-on learning centers and individualized instruction. The facility features secure access controls, spacious classrooms with natural lighting, and well-maintained outdoor play areas. They emphasize literacy development, social skills, and creative expression through their proprietary curriculum. The center maintains excellent staff retention with many teachers having 10+ years of experience, and offers flexible scheduling options to meet family needs while ensuring consistent, high-quality care.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Summers, AR
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Summers, Arkansas, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Summers, Arkansas, all childcare facilities serving six or more children must be licensed by the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS), Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education. This licensing ensures they meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and staff background checks. For smaller in-home providers (5 or fewer children), registration is required. You can verify a provider's license status by using the "Child Care Facility Search" tool on the Arkansas DHS website or by contacting the DHS Child Care Licensing Unit directly. It's highly recommended to always choose a licensed or registered provider in Summers to ensure a baseline of safety and oversight.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Summers, AR?
The cost of childcare in Summers, AR, is generally more affordable than in larger Arkansas cities but varies based on the type of care. For a licensed daycare center, full-time infant care typically ranges from $110 to $150 per week. For toddlers, the cost is slightly lower, often between $100 and $135 per week. Licensed family home daycares may offer rates at the lower end of this spectrum. It's important to note that these are estimates, and prices can vary. We recommend contacting providers directly for their current rates. Arkansas also offers childcare assistance programs for eligible families through the DHS to help offset these costs.
Are there any state-funded pre-K programs available for 3- and 4-year-olds in Summers, and how do I apply?
Yes, the Arkansas Better Chance (ABC) program provides state-funded pre-K for eligible 3- and 4-year-olds. In Summers and the surrounding Washington County area, these programs are typically housed within public school districts or specific licensed childcare centers that are ABC providers. Eligibility is often based on family income, but some slots may be available for at-risk children regardless of income. To apply, you should contact the Summers area elementary school or the local ABC program coordinator. You can also find a list of ABC providers through the Arkansas Department of Education's Early Childhood Education section. Spaces can be limited, so early inquiry is advised.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Summers, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the smaller number of providers in a town like Summers, waitlists for infant and toddler care at popular centers or highly-regarded home daycares can be significant, often ranging from 3 to 9 months. It's crucial to begin your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. To improve your chances, contact multiple providers to get on their lists, ask about their specific policies (some require a deposit), and check in periodically to express continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in the surrounding rural areas of Washington County, as they may have more immediate availability.
What local resources or organizations in Summers can help me find and evaluate childcare options?
The primary resource for finding licensed childcare in Summers is the Arkansas DHS Child Care Search website. For personalized assistance, parents can contact the **Arkansas Child Care Aware Referral Line**, a free service that helps match families with local providers based on their specific needs. Additionally, the **University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service** in nearby Fayetteville offers resources on child development and may have connections to local programs. For evaluating quality, look for providers participating in the state's **Better Beginnings** quality rating system—a higher star rating indicates a program that exceeds minimum licensing standards in areas like learning environment and professional development.