The Best Daycare Centers in Lithia Springs, GA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lithia Springs. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lithia Springs
The Goddard School of Douglasville
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Douglasville serves the Lithia Springs area with a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and physical development with low student-to-teacher ratios. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All teachers are early childhood education certified and participate in ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes character development and social-emotional learning through structured activities and free play.
Daycare Services:
The Sunshine House of Lithia Springs
The Sunshine House Early Learning Academy
Located directly in Lithia Springs, The Sunshine House provides a comprehensive early childhood education program with a focus on school readiness. Their curriculum includes literacy development, mathematics, science exploration, and social studies through hands-on learning experiences. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, age-specific playgrounds, and modern classrooms. Teachers maintain CPR and First Aid certification with ongoing training in child development. The program emphasizes nutrition with USDA-approved meals and snacks, and maintains strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
Daycare Services:
The Gardner School of Douglasville
The Gardner School
The Gardner School in Douglasville serves Lithia Springs families with an academically-focused early childhood program that emphasizes kindergarten readiness. Their proprietary curriculum includes literacy enrichment, mathematics, foreign language exposure, and technology integration. The state-of-the-art facility features secure entry systems, indoor gymnasiums, multiple playgrounds, and specialized learning centers. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, with small class sizes and low student-to-teacher ratios. The school offers enrichment programs including music, physical education, and computer literacy as part of their comprehensive approach to early childhood development.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lithia Springs, GA
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Lithia Springs, GA?
In Lithia Springs, the average cost for full-time infant or toddler daycare typically ranges from $150 to $225 per week, depending on the type of facility. Licensed daycare centers in the area often fall in the higher end of that range, while registered family childcare homes may be slightly more affordable. This is generally lower than the metro Atlanta average, making Lithia Springs a relatively cost-effective option for Douglas County parents. It's important to note that these are base rates; additional fees for registration, supplies, or early/late pick-up can apply. We recommend contacting providers directly for their most current pricing.
How can I verify the license and complaint history of a daycare provider in Lithia Springs?
All licensed childcare programs in Lithia Springs are regulated by the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL). You can verify a provider's license and review their compliance history, including any substantiated complaints, through the **DECAL Bright from the Start website**. Use their "Child Care Search" tool to look up facilities by name, city (Lithia Springs), or zip code. This report will show the license status, capacity, ages served, and any monitoring visits or violations. This is a crucial step for ensuring the provider meets Georgia's health, safety, and educational standards.
Are there any daycare centers in Lithia Springs that offer flexible or non-traditional hours for parents with shift work?
Yes, there are a limited number of providers in the Lithia Springs area that cater to parents with non-standard schedules. Some family childcare homes and a few centers may offer extended hours, early openings (before 6:30 AM), or late closings (after 6:30 PM). Additionally, due to the proximity to major employers and distribution centers in Douglas County, some facilities may accommodate rotating shifts. However, these spots are in high demand. It is essential to inquire directly about availability and any shift differential fees. Networking with other local parents on community social media pages can also help identify these specific providers.
What are the typical waitlist times for enrolling an infant in a highly-rated daycare center in Lithia Springs?
For infant spots (6 weeks to 12 months) in well-regarded centers in Lithia Springs, waitlist times can vary significantly. It is common to encounter waitlists of 3 to 9 months, especially for centers with high Georgia Quality Rating scores. Many parents report putting their child on a list during the second trimester of pregnancy. The wait is often shorter for toddler and preschool classrooms. To manage this, we recommend touring and applying to multiple preferred centers as early as possible and asking about their specific waitlist policies, including whether a deposit is required to hold a future spot.
What local resources or programs in Lithia Springs can help lower-income families afford quality childcare?
Several state and federal programs can assist eligible families in Lithia Springs. The primary resource is Georgia's **Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) program**, administered by DECAL. CAPS provides subsidized childcare for families who meet income and work/training requirements. You can apply through the Douglas County Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS) or online via the Georgia Gateway portal. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships. The United Way of Greater Atlanta (which serves Douglas County) and community action agencies can also provide guidance and referrals to affordable childcare options.