The Best Daycare Centers in Harrison, GA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Harrison. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Harrison
Sandersville KinderCare
KinderCare Learning Companies
Sandersville KinderCare provides comprehensive early childhood education with a research-based curriculum that focuses on developmental milestones. The center features dedicated learning centers for different age groups, with qualified teachers trained in early childhood development. Their program includes literacy development, STEM activities, and social-emotional learning. The facility maintains strict security protocols including keypad entry and comprehensive safety procedures. They offer nutritious meals and snacks as part of their program, and maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios for personalized attention.
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Little Angels Learning Center
Independent
Little Angels Learning Center offers a faith-based educational environment with a balanced approach to academic and social development. Their curriculum incorporates both structured learning and play-based activities, focusing on kindergarten readiness. The center features age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and experienced teaching staff with early childhood certifications. They emphasize character development alongside academic skills, with regular parent communication and progress reports. The facility maintains high cleanliness standards and follows Georgia's Bright from the Start licensing requirements.
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Washington County Pre-K Center
Washington County School District
As part of the Washington County School District, this state-funded Pre-K center provides high-quality early education following Georgia's Early Learning and Development Standards. The program features certified teachers with specialized training in early childhood education, comprehensive literacy and math foundations, and developmental assessments. The center maintains excellent student-teacher ratios and offers structured learning environments with modern educational materials. Their approach combines academic preparation with social development skills, preparing children for kindergarten success. The facility includes secure playgrounds and follows all state safety regulations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Harrison, GA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare centers in Harrison, Georgia, and how can I verify a provider's status?
In Harrison, Georgia, all childcare learning centers and family daycare homes must be licensed by the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL). This state agency sets standards for staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, health and safety protocols, and facility requirements. To verify a provider's license status, inspection reports, and any compliance history, you can use the free "Quality Rated" search tool on DECAL's official website. Simply enter the provider's name or your zip code. It's highly recommended to choose a provider that is not only licensed but also participates in Georgia's voluntary "Quality Rated" program, which indicates a higher standard of care and learning environments.
What is the average cost of full-time infant daycare in Harrison, GA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
The cost of childcare in Harrison can vary, but for full-time infant care (children under 18 months), parents can expect to pay an average of $130 to $180 per week. Prices are influenced by the type of facility (center vs. home-based), its amenities, and whether it holds a Quality Rated designation. 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 portal. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Harrison, and what can I do to secure a spot for my infant?
Due to high demand, especially for infant care slots which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios, waitlists at popular daycare centers in and around Harrison can range from 3 to 9 months. It's advisable to begin your search and get on multiple lists during your second trimester of pregnancy. When contacting centers, ask specific questions: 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. Don't overlook licensed family daycare homes, which often have smaller capacities but may have shorter wait times and offer a more personalized setting.
What are some key differences between the preschool programs offered in Harrison daycare centers versus the Pre-K program offered by the Harris County School District?
This is a crucial distinction for parents of 3-4 year olds. Daycare centers in Harrison typically offer private preschool programs for children starting as young as 3 years old, which you pay for weekly or monthly tuition. These programs often run all day to accommodate working parents. In contrast, the Georgia's Pre-K Program, administered locally by the Harris County School District, is a state-funded, lottery-based program for 4-year-olds. It is free, but operates on a standard school day schedule (e.g., 8 AM - 2:30 PM) and follows the academic calendar, meaning it is closed for summer and school holidays. Many parents use a daycare center's before-and-after-care services to supplement the Pre-K school day.
Are there any daycare or childcare options in Harrison that accommodate non-traditional work hours, like evenings or weekends?
Finding childcare for nights, weekends, or rotating shifts is challenging in Harrison, as most licensed centers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM schedule. Your best options are to seek out licensed family daycare homes, as some providers may offer more flexible hours to meet community needs. Another avenue is to search for qualified in-home nannies or babysitters through local networks or reputable online services, ensuring they pass background checks. You can also inquire within local hospitals or manufacturing plants, as employees there may have formed informal childcare co-ops or have recommendations for providers who cater to shift workers. Always prioritize licensed care for safety and accountability.