The Best Daycare Centers in Moore Haven, FL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Moore Haven. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Moore Haven
Moore Haven Head Start
Redlands Christian Migrant Association (RCMA)
Moore Haven Head Start operated by RCMA provides comprehensive early childhood education and family support services to low-income families in Glades County. The center follows the Head Start curriculum framework focusing on school readiness, social-emotional development, and cognitive skills. All teachers meet Head Start qualification requirements with ongoing professional development. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play areas, and provides nutritious meals meeting USDA guidelines. What makes this center stand out is their wraparound family services including health screenings, parent education, and community resource connections, serving as a vital educational hub in this rural community.
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Clewiston Christian Academy & Preschool
Clewiston Christian School
Clewiston Christian Academy provides Christ-centered early childhood education serving families throughout Hendry County, including Moore Haven residents. The preschool program uses A Beka curriculum combined with hands-on learning activities to develop academic readiness and Christian character. All lead teachers hold early childhood credentials with low student-teacher ratios maintained. The secure campus features modern classrooms, dedicated playgrounds, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their standout features include integrated technology learning, music and movement programs, and flexible scheduling options accommodating working families in the Lake Okeechobee region.
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LaBelle Early Learning Center
Private Ownership
LaBelle Early Learning Center serves families throughout Hendry County with a research-based curriculum that balances academic preparation and developmental appropriateness. The center utilizes Creative Curriculum with STEM integration and literacy focus, while maintaining small class sizes for individualized attention. All teaching staff hold CDA credentials or higher with ongoing training in early childhood best practices. The facility features secure access, age-specific learning environments, and outdoor nature exploration areas. What distinguishes this center is their emphasis on parent communication through daily updates, developmental milestone tracking, and family engagement events, making them a preferred choice for Moore Haven commuters.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Moore Haven, FL
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Moore Haven, FL, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Moore Haven, 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 minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and training. You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any disciplinary history for free through the DCF's official "Child Care Facility Search" website. It's a critical first step for any parent in Glades County to ensure they are considering a legally operating and monitored facility.
Given Moore Haven's rural location, what types of childcare options are typically available, and are waitlists common?
As a smaller, rural community in Glades County, Moore Haven's childcare options are more limited compared to larger cities. You will primarily find licensed family daycare homes and potentially a small number of childcare centers or faith-based preschool programs. Due to this limited supply, waitlists for infant and toddler care are very common and can be lengthy, sometimes several months. It is highly recommended for parents to begin their search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible, even during pregnancy. Exploring options in nearby towns like Clewiston or LaBelle may also be necessary.
What is the average weekly cost for full-time infant and preschool childcare in Moore Haven?
Costs in Moore Haven tend to be lower than the Florida state average but are significant relative to local incomes. For full-time care, you can expect to pay approximately $120-$160 per week for a preschooler (ages 3-5) and $140-$180 per week for an infant/toddler in a family daycare home. Center-based care, if available, may be slightly higher. It's important to note that as a rural area with lower median incomes, these costs can still represent a substantial portion of a family's budget. We recommend contacting providers directly for their most current rates.
Are there any state or local financial assistance programs to help with childcare costs for families in Moore Haven?
Yes, the primary resource is Florida's School Readiness Program, which provides financial assistance to eligible low- and moderate-income families. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work/training requirements. The program is administered locally by the Early Learning Coalition of Southwest Florida, which serves Glades County. You can apply through their website or office. Additionally, all Florida families may be eligible for the federal Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) voucher, often accessed through the same School Readiness application. We recommend contacting the Early Learning Coalition directly to determine your eligibility and the current application process.
What should I look for during an in-person visit to a daycare in Moore Haven, especially considering the local environment?
During a visit, first confirm the DCF license is posted. Beyond standard checks for cleanliness and engagement, consider local factors: Ask about their plan for hot weather and outdoor play (adequate shade, hydration, and air conditioning are crucial in South Florida). Inquire about their protocol for severe weather, given Florida's hurricane season, including evacuation plans and communication with parents. For family homes, check that the swimming pool, if present, is securely fenced and inaccessible to children, as pools are common in the area. Observe how staff interact with children and ask about their specific training in early childhood development. Trusting your instincts about the caregiver's warmth and the environment's safety is key.