The Best Daycare Centers in Dallas, GA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Dallas. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Dallas
The Goddard School of Dallas
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Dallas offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. Their play-based curriculum includes STEAM learning, literacy development, and character education. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, modern classrooms. All teachers are highly qualified with ongoing professional development, and the school maintains low student-teacher ratios. They provide nutritious meals and snacks, regular parent communication through the Goddard app, and comprehensive safety protocols including secure check-in systems.
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Primrose School of Dallas
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Dallas provides Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. Their research-based curriculum includes character development, literacy, math, science, and creative arts. The school features secure facilities with coded entry, age-specific playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers. Teachers receive ongoing professional development and maintain CPR/first aid certifications. The program includes healthy meals and snacks, regular developmental assessments, and strong parent partnerships through the Primrose Schools app. Their exclusive Harmony & Heart® program incorporates music, art, and movement into daily learning.
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The Learning Experience - Hiram
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in nearby Hiram serves the Dallas community with their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates technology, phonics, and moral values. The center offers specialized programs including early literacy, mathematics, and foreign language exposure. Facilities include secure entry systems, indoor and outdoor play areas, and dedicated learning centers. All staff are trained in early childhood education and maintain current certifications. The center provides meals and snacks, regular progress reports, and flexible scheduling options. Their philanthropy curriculum teaches children the importance of giving back to the community through various charitable initiatives.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Dallas, GA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare centers in Dallas, Georgia, and how can I verify a provider's status?
In Dallas, Georgia, all childcare learning centers and group daycare homes must be licensed by the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL). This licensing ensures they meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, and facility requirements. You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any compliance history by using the "Find Child Care" search tool on DECAL's official website. It's highly recommended to choose a licensed facility, as this provides a baseline of oversight and accountability. Some registered in-home providers (caring for fewer children) may also be an option, but they have different requirements.
What is the average cost of full-time infant daycare in Dallas, GA, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In Dallas and the surrounding Paulding County area, the average cost for full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $150 to $220 per week. Prices can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum (e.g., Montessori, faith-based), and age of the child, with infant care being the most expensive. For financial assistance, Georgia's Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) program is the primary resource for eligible families. Eligibility is based on income, work/school status, and other factors. You can apply through the Georgia Gateway website. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Dallas, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are quite common for reputable daycare centers in Dallas, GA, especially for infant and toddler classrooms. Due to high demand and limited infant-to-staff ratios, it's not unusual for popular centers to have waitlists of 3 to 9 months. We strongly recommend starting your search at least 6-12 months before you need care. When touring facilities, always ask about their current waitlist length, the deposit policy to hold a spot (which is usually non-refundable), and how often they update families on their position. Exploring multiple options, including centers in nearby towns like Hiram or Douglasville, can increase your chances of finding timely availability.
What are some key factors to consider when touring daycare centers in Dallas specific to our community?
Beyond standard safety and cleanliness, Dallas-specific factors include: **Commute and Accessibility:** Consider centers near major routes like Highway 61, Highway 278, or Veterans Memorial Highway to fit your work commute. **Outdoor Space:** Given Dallas's suburban/rural mix, assess if the center has adequate, shaded outdoor play areas. **Local Emergency Preparedness:** Ask about their plan for severe weather common to North Georgia (like tornado drills) and their protocol for local emergency alerts. **Community Involvement:** Many Dallas centers participate in local events (like the Dallas Fall Festival) or partner with Paulding County schools—this can indicate strong community ties. Finally, ask about their policy on school closure days for the Paulding County School District, as this affects staff availability and potential extra costs for you.
What types of childcare options are available in Dallas besides large daycare centers?
Dallas offers a variety of childcare options to suit different needs and budgets. These include: **Licensed Family Childcare Learning Homes:** Smaller, home-based settings often with mixed-age groups, which can offer a more family-like environment. **Faith-Based Preschools:** Several local churches offer weekday preschool programs, often with part-time or full-day options, which may incorporate religious teachings. **Nanny Shares or In-Home Care:** Some families in Dallas coordinate to share a nanny, which can be a cost-effective personalized solution. You can find caregivers through local community Facebook groups (e.g., "Dallas, GA Community Board"). **Part-Day Preschools:** Ideal for parents not needing full-day care, these programs often focus on early education for ages 3-5. The City of Dallas Parks & Recreation or the Paulding County Board of Education may also have seasonal or supplemental programs.