The Best Daycare Centers in Perry, FL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Perry. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Perry
Perry Early Learning Center
Early Learning Coalition of the Big Bend Region
Perry Early Learning Center is a highly-regarded early childhood education facility offering comprehensive developmental programs for children from infancy through pre-K. The center follows the Creative Curriculum system, focusing on age-appropriate learning through play and structured activities. Staff members hold Child Development Associate credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The facility features secure access systems, modern classrooms with natural lighting, and age-specific outdoor play areas. What makes this center stand out is its strong emphasis on school readiness, with dedicated VPK programs and partnerships with local elementary schools for smooth transitions.
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The Goddard School of Tallahassee
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Tallahassee serves families throughout the Big Bend region including Perry, offering a premier early childhood education program with FLEX Learning Program curriculum that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. The center features state-certified teachers with bachelor's degrees in education, low student-teacher ratios, and secure digital check-in systems. Facilities include STEM labs, music and movement rooms, and expansive playgrounds with natural elements. The school stands out for its comprehensive enrichment programs including foreign language exposure, yoga, and hands-on science activities, along with real-time parent communication through mobile apps.
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Primrose School of Southwood
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Southwood is a nationally accredited early education center serving families across the Big Bend region with Balanced Learning® curriculum that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance. The school employs degreed early childhood educators who implement research-based teaching methods across literacy, math, science, and character development. The facility features secure entry systems, commercial-grade air purification, age-appropriate learning environments, and multiple outdoor discovery areas. What distinguishes this center is its exclusive partnerships with organizations like The Juilliard School for music curriculum and NASA for STEM activities, providing exceptional enrichment opportunities rarely found in early childhood settings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Perry, FL
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Perry, FL, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Perry, Florida, full-time daycare for an infant can range from approximately $120 to $160 per week, while care for toddlers and preschoolers typically costs between $100 and $140 per week. These rates are generally lower than the state average, reflecting the cost of living in Taylor County. For financial assistance, parents can apply for the School Readiness Program through the Early Learning Coalition of the Big Bend Region, which serves Taylor County. This state-subsidized program helps eligible low-income families afford quality childcare. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees. It's recommended to contact providers directly and inquire with the Coalition's office for the most current eligibility requirements and application process.
How can I verify if a daycare or childcare home in Perry is properly licensed and check its compliance history?
All licensed childcare providers in Perry must be regulated by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). You can verify a provider's license and review its inspection history online through the DCF Child Care Facility Search tool. Simply enter the provider's name or location. This report will show the license status, capacity, any cited violations, and the results of background checks for staff. For added local insight, you can also contact the Taylor County Health Department or the Early Learning Coalition of the Big Bend Region, as they often have community knowledge of local providers. Always visit a facility in person and ask to see their current license, which should be posted.
What is the availability and waitlist situation for infant care in Perry, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Infant care (children under 1 year old) in Perry often has limited availability due to stricter staff-to-child ratios required by Florida law. It is common for the few dedicated infant rooms in local centers and registered family childcare homes to have waitlists, especially for newborns. Parents are strongly advised to begin their search during the second trimester of pregnancy, if possible. Some popular providers may have waitlists several months long. When contacting centers like The Learning Tree or Perry Early Learning Center, be sure to ask specifically about infant room availability and their waitlist policy, including any deposit requirements to hold a spot.
Are there any childcare options in Perry that offer extended hours for parents with non-traditional work schedules?
Options for extended-hour childcare in Perry are limited but available. Some registered family childcare homes may offer more flexible hours, including early mornings before 6:30 AM or evenings past 6:00 PM, to accommodate shift workers at local employers like the Buckeye Florida mill or the Taylor County Correctional Institution. It's crucial to inquire directly with home-based providers about their specific hours and any additional fees for extended care. The larger daycare centers typically adhere to a standard 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM schedule. For occasional or emergency care outside these hours, building a network with local trusted babysitters may be necessary.
What are the main types of childcare programs available in Perry, and how do I choose between a center and a family childcare home?
Perry offers two primary types of licensed childcare: center-based care (like Perry Early Learning Center) and family childcare homes (smaller operations in a provider's residence). Centers often provide a more structured preschool curriculum, larger peer groups, and multiple classrooms by age. Family childcare homes typically offer a mixed-age, home-like environment with potentially more flexible hours and a smaller caregiver-to-child ratio, which can be appealing for infants and toddlers. Your choice should depend on your child's temperament, your schedule, and your priorities. Consider touring both types, asking about daily routines, safety protocols, and caregiver qualifications. Given Perry's smaller size, visiting and getting personal recommendations from other parents in the community is especially valuable.