The Best Daycare Centers in Arlington, GA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Arlington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Arlington
Arlington Head Start Center
Southwest Georgia Community Action Council
Arlington Head Start Center provides comprehensive early childhood education and development services for low-income families. The center follows the Head Start curriculum framework focusing on school readiness, social-emotional development, and cognitive skills. Teachers are certified in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The program includes health screenings, nutritious meals, family engagement activities, and individualized learning plans. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play areas, and learning centers designed to support developmental milestones through play-based and structured learning activities.
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Kiddie Kottage Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Kottage Learning Center offers a comprehensive educational program serving children from infancy through school age. The center utilizes a balanced curriculum incorporating Creative Curriculum elements with hands-on learning experiences. Staff members maintain low teacher-to-child ratios and are trained in CPR, first aid, and early childhood development. The facility features secure classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers for literacy, math, science, and creative arts. The program emphasizes character development, social skills, and kindergarten readiness through structured activities and free play in a nurturing, Christian-based environment.
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The Goddard School of Albany
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Albany, located approximately 25 miles from Arlington, offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. The school features state-licensed teachers with degrees in early childhood education, secure keypad entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. Curriculum includes STEAM learning, literacy development, and character education in purpose-built classrooms with modern learning materials. The facility includes age-specific playgrounds, indoor gyms, and enrichment programs. Parent communication is enhanced through daily reports and regular conferences, ensuring strong family partnerships in child development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Arlington, GA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Arlington, GA, and how can I verify a facility is in good standing?
In Arlington, GA, all childcare learning centers and group daycare homes must be licensed by the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL). This involves rigorous background checks for all staff, regular health and safety inspections, and adherence to staff-to-child ratios based on age. To verify a facility's standing, parents can use the free "Quality Rated" search tool on DECAL's website or call their helpline. This will show the facility's license status, any compliance history, and if they participate in Georgia's voluntary quality rating system. Given Arlington's smaller size, it's especially important to confirm licensing, as unregistered in-home care might be advertised.
What is the average cost for full-time infant daycare in Arlington, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Arlington and the surrounding Calhoun County area, full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $120 to $160 per week. This is generally lower than state urban averages but can vary based on the provider's amenities and whether they are a home-based or center-based facility. For financial assistance, Georgia's Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) program is the primary resource for eligible families. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's recommended to contact the Calhoun County Family and Children Services office for guidance on CAPS eligibility and application, as well as to inquire directly with daycare centers about any private scholarship opportunities.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Arlington, and when should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of licensed daycare options in a small city like Arlington, waitlists for infants and toddlers at the most sought-after centers can be significant, often ranging from 3 to 9 months. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as soon as you know you will need care, ideally during pregnancy or at least 6 months before your desired start date. When contacting providers, ask specific questions about their waitlist process: Is there a fee to join? How often is it updated? Do they give priority to siblings? Exploring options in nearby towns like Edison or Leary may also be necessary if local waitlists are prohibitive.
What are the typical operating hours for daycares in Arlington, and are there options for parents with non-standard work shifts?
Most licensed daycare centers in Arlington operate on a fairly standard schedule, typically from around 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday. However, options for evening, overnight, or weekend care are extremely limited. For parents with shift work at local employers like the hospital, factories, or agricultural operations, your best bet is to seek out licensed family daycare homes, which may offer more flexible hours by arrangement. It's crucial to discuss your specific schedule needs upfront during tours and interviews. Some parents in the area also form small, private nanny shares to cover irregular hours, though this requires thorough vetting.
What enrichment or preparedness programs do Arlington daycares offer for preschool-aged children?
Many daycare centers in Arlington that serve children ages 3-5 incorporate Georgia's early learning standards into their curriculum to prepare children for kindergarten at Calhoun County Elementary School. Look for programs that emphasize literacy foundations, basic math concepts, and social-emotional skills. Some providers may participate in the Georgia Pre-K Program, which offers free, state-funded preschool for eligible 4-year-olds. Due to Arlington's rural setting, some daycares might also incorporate nature-based learning. When touring, ask about daily lesson plans, teacher qualifications in early childhood education, and how they communicate your child's progress to ensure they are meeting key developmental milestones.