The Best Daycare Centers in Gordon, GA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Gordon. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Gordon
Primrose School of Warner Robins
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Warner Robins is a nationally accredited early education center serving the Gordon area with their exclusive Balanced Learning® approach. The curriculum blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers, focusing on character development, literacy, math, and science. Features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and nutritionally balanced meals. Staff maintain CPR/first aid certifications and participate in ongoing professional development. Parents consistently praise the structured learning environment and strong communication.
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The Sunshine House Early Learning Academy of Warner Robins
The Sunshine House
The Sunshine House provides comprehensive early childhood education with a play-based curriculum that incorporates STEAM activities and literacy development. Features secure keypad entry, daily health screenings, and structured learning centers. Teachers hold early childhood credentials and receive ongoing training in child development. The center offers flexible scheduling and emphasizes social-emotional learning through their proprietary curriculum. Parents appreciate the clean facilities and engaging educational activities.
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Kiddie Academy of Macon
Kiddie Academy
Kiddie Academy of Macon serves the Middle Georgia region with their Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, technology, and hands-on learning. Features secure facilities with surveillance systems, age-appropriate learning materials, and dedicated play areas. Staff maintain Georgia early education credentials and receive continuous professional development. The academy emphasizes communication through daily activity reports and parent portals. Notable for their health and safety protocols and structured learning environment that prepares children for kindergarten.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Gordon, GA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Gordon, Georgia, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Gordon, Georgia, all childcare learning centers and family 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. For example, for infants (0-12 months), the ratio is 1:6. To verify a facility's license and compliance history, you can use the "Find Child Care" search tool on DECAL's official website or contact the local DECAL office directly. It's highly recommended to check for any recent violations or corrective action plans before enrolling your child.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Gordon, GA, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Gordon and the surrounding Wilkinson County area, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from $120 to $160 per week. For toddlers, it may be slightly lower, around $110 to $140 per week. These rates can vary based on the type of facility (center-based vs. home-based) and the specific services offered. 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 requirements, and other factors. You can apply through the Georgia Gateway portal or contact the Wilkinson County Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS) for guidance on the application process.
Are there many daycare options with extended hours or weekend care available in Gordon for parents with non-traditional work schedules?
Options for extended hours or weekend care in Gordon are limited, as most traditional daycare centers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM schedule. However, some licensed family daycare homes may offer more flexible hours by individual arrangement. For reliable non-traditional care, parents often need to look at in-home nanny shares or registered babysitters. Networking through local Facebook groups like "Wilkinson County, GA Community" or "Gordon, GA News and Talk" can be a good way to find providers who accommodate shift work or weekend needs. It's crucial to ensure any individual caregiver undergoes proper background screening.
What should I look for during a tour of a potential daycare center or home in Gordon, and are there any local resources to help with the search?
During a tour in Gordon, look beyond the basics. Observe staff-child interactions—are they engaged and responsive? Check for cleanliness, secure outdoor play areas, and age-appropriate toys. Ask about their curriculum for developmental milestones and their policy on sick children. Inquire about their emergency preparedness plan, especially for severe weather common in Georgia. For local search help, beyond online DECAL listings, contact the **Heart of Georgia Community Action Council**, which may have resource and referral services. Also, ask for recommendations from your pediatrician's office at the local clinic or from other parents at community spots like the Gordon Public Library.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Gordon, and when should I start looking for care before I need it?
Due to the limited number of licensed facilities in a smaller community like Gordon, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant rooms. It's not uncommon for popular centers to have a 3 to 6-month waitlist, and sometimes longer. We strongly recommend starting your search and getting on waitlists **at least 6-9 months** before your anticipated start date. If you are expecting a new baby, begin researching during your second trimester. Be proactive: contact multiple providers, get on multiple lists (there's usually no fee), and follow up periodically. This early planning is crucial to secure a spot in your preferred facility.