The Best Daycare Centers in Felda, FL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Felda. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Felda
LaBelle Child Development Center
Independent
LaBelle Child Development Center is a highly-regarded facility serving the Felda area with comprehensive early childhood education programs. They implement a research-based curriculum focused on developmental milestones, literacy, and social-emotional learning. The center features certified early childhood educators with low teacher-to-child ratios, secure entry systems, and modern learning environments. Their program includes structured learning activities, outdoor play areas, nutritious meal programs, and regular parent communication. The center is known for its nurturing environment and strong emphasis on school readiness, particularly through their Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) program.
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Clewiston Child Care & Learning Center
Independent
Serving families throughout Hendry County including Felda, Clewiston Child Care & Learning Center offers a well-rounded educational approach combining play-based learning with structured academic preparation. The center features state-licensed teachers with CPR/first aid certification, age-appropriate learning centers, and secure facilities with surveillance systems. Their curriculum emphasizes language development, early math concepts, and social skills through hands-on activities. The center maintains excellent safety records, provides nutritional meals and snacks, and offers flexible scheduling options to accommodate working families in the agricultural community.
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Sunshine Kids Academy - LaBelle
Sunshine Kids Academy
Sunshine Kids Academy in LaBelle provides quality childcare services to families in Felda and surrounding communities. The center implements a comprehensive early learning curriculum that balances academic preparation with creative expression and physical development. Features include certified early childhood teachers, secure electronic entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, clean classrooms. Their program includes music and movement, arts and crafts, early literacy activities, and STEM exploration. The academy is particularly noted for its strong parent communication system, regular developmental assessments, and inclusive environment that welcomes children of all backgrounds.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Felda, FL
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Felda, Florida, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Felda, as in all of Florida, childcare facilities must be licensed by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). This includes family daycare homes (caring for 5-10 children) and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet standards for staff-to-child ratios, background checks, health and safety protocols, and staff training. To verify a facility's status, you can use the DCF's "Child Care Facility Search" tool online. For a local perspective, you can also contact the Children's Services Council of Hendry County or the Early Learning Coalition of Southwest Florida, which often have additional quality improvement programs like Gold Seal accreditation. Always ask the provider for their license number and look for it posted visibly at the facility.
Given Felda's rural location, what types of childcare options are typically available, and are waitlists common?
Felda, being a small, unincorporated community in Hendry County, offers more limited options than larger cities. Your primary choices will likely be licensed family daycare homes run in a provider's residence and possibly smaller faith-based or private centers. There are fewer large commercial chains. Due to this limited supply, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care which has stricter staff-to-child ratios. It's highly recommended to start your search early—ideally 3-6 months before you need care. Networking with other parents in the community through local Facebook groups or community boards can be invaluable for finding openings in home-based settings that may not advertise widely.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare for an infant or toddler in Felda, and are there financial assistance programs?
While specific Felda data is limited, costs in Hendry County are generally lower than the Florida state average but can vary. For a full-time infant in a licensed family home or center, you might expect to pay between $125 to $175 per week. Toddler care may be slightly less. Financial assistance is available through the School Readiness Program administered by the Early Learning Coalition of Southwest Florida. Eligibility is based on family income, work/school training status, and other factors. You can apply through their office, which serves Hendry County. Additionally, some providers may offer sibling discounts or adjusted rates for part-time care.
How do I evaluate the quality and safety of a daycare in a small community like Felda?
Beyond checking the mandatory DCF license, take these local steps: First, schedule an in-person visit to observe cleanliness, child engagement, and safety measures (fenced outdoor areas, secure entry). Ask about their emergency plans for severe weather common to inland Florida, like thunderstorms and tornado watches. In a tight-knit community, word-of-mouth is powerful—ask neighbors, local churches, or staff at the Felda Elementary School for recommendations. Check if the provider participates in voluntary quality programs like the "Guiding Stars of Hendry and Glades" rating system. Finally, trust your instincts on the caregiver's warmth and communication style during your visit.
Are there any daycare or preschool programs in Felda that offer early learning curricula to prepare children for kindergarten?
Yes, there are options that focus on school readiness. The most accessible program is the Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) program, a free benefit for all Florida 4-year-olds. In Felda and surrounding areas, VPK may be offered at local childcare centers, family homes, or through the public school system. The school year program is typically part-time, but many providers wrap it with full-day childcare for working parents. Additionally, providers participating in the School Readiness or Gold Seal programs are required to use developmentally appropriate curricula. Ask potential providers specifically about their lesson plans, literacy activities, and how they track developmental milestones to ensure your child is prepared for kindergarten at Felda Elementary or another local school.