The Best Daycare Centers in Locust Grove, GA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Locust Grove. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Locust Grove
The Sunshine House of Locust Grove
The Sunshine House Early Learning Academy
The Sunshine House of Locust Grove provides comprehensive early childhood education with a structured curriculum that focuses on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. Their experienced staff maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and implements safety protocols including secure entry systems and regular safety drills. The center features age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and offers nutritious meals. Their educational approach combines play-based learning with structured activities to prepare children for kindergarten while maintaining NAEYC-aligned standards.
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Primrose School of Eagles Landing
Primrose Schools
Located in nearby Stockbridge and serving the Locust Grove area, Primrose School of Eagles Landing offers a balanced learning approach through their exclusive Balanced Learning curriculum. The school emphasizes character development, literacy, and STEM education with degreed teachers and low student-teacher ratios. Facilities include secure campuses with keypad entry, modern classrooms, multiple playgrounds, and dedicated art and music rooms. The center is known for its strong parent communication system, comprehensive safety protocols, and high-quality early childhood education programs that consistently receive outstanding parent reviews.
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Kiddie Academy of Stockbridge
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Stockbridge serves the Locust Grove community with their Life Essentials curriculum that focuses on character education, technology integration, and hands-on learning experiences. The center features state-licensed teachers with ongoing professional development, secure electronic entry systems, and comprehensive health and safety protocols. Their facility includes age-specific learning centers, outdoor play areas, and technology-enhanced classrooms. The academy emphasizes social-emotional development alongside academic readiness, with structured daily schedules that balance instruction, play, and rest periods while maintaining excellent staff retention and parent satisfaction ratings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Locust Grove, GA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Locust Grove, GA?
In Locust Grove, the cost of childcare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For infants and toddlers in a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $150 to $200 per week. Preschool programs for children aged 3-5 are generally slightly lower, ranging from $120 to $180 per week. Home-based family childcare is often a more affordable option, typically ranging from $100 to $160 per week. These rates are generally lower than the metro Atlanta average but have been rising with the area's growth. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly fee, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. Many facilities in Henry County also offer sibling discounts.
How can I verify a daycare is properly licensed and check its compliance history in Georgia?
All childcare learning centers and family daycare homes in Locust Grove must be licensed by the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL). You can verify a provider's license and review their compliance history for free using the "Bright from the Start: Georgia DECAL" website. Search for the provider by name or location to see their current license status, any cited violations, and the results of their last monitoring visit. You can also call DECAL at (404) 657-5562. When touring a facility in Locust Grove, don't hesitate to ask the director to see their current license, which should be posted. Checking this history is crucial for ensuring state-mandated standards for safety, staff-to-child ratios, and staff qualifications are being met.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Locust Grove, and how far in advance should I apply?
Due to significant residential growth in Locust Grove and Henry County, many reputable daycare centers and popular preschools do have waitlists, especially for infant rooms. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists at least 6 to 9 months before your needed start date, and even earlier (12+ months) for infant care. Some centers have a rolling enrollment, while others have specific intake periods aligned with the school year. When contacting a center, ask specifically about their waitlist process: if there's a fee to join, how often they update families on position, and if they offer priority for siblings of current students. Exploring multiple options, including licensed family childcare homes, which may have more immediate availability, is a good strategy.
What are some key local factors or programs specific to Henry County that I should look for in a daycare?
Several local factors are beneficial for Locust Grove families. First, look for centers that participate in Georgia's **Quality Rated** system, the state's voluntary quality improvement and rating program. A higher star rating indicates a commitment to exceeding minimum standards. Secondly, inquire if the center partners with **Henry County Schools** for pre-K. Georgia's Lottery-funded Pre-K program is available for 4-year-olds at many local centers, providing a high-quality, free educational option. Finally, consider the center's approach to outdoor time and local outings. Given Locust Grove's community feel, some providers may incorporate visits to local spots like the Locust Grove Public Library for storytime or nearby parks, which can be a great advantage.
What are the options for before and after-school care for school-age children in Locust Grove?
For school-age children, Locust Grove offers several options. Many local daycare centers provide before and after-school care with transportation to and from specific Henry County elementary schools, such as Locust Grove Elementary, Bethlehem Elementary, or Unity Grove Elementary. The **Henry County Parks & Recreation Department** also operates the "After School Program" (ASP) at several school sites, which is a popular and affordable option featuring homework time, snacks, and recreational activities. Additionally, some private facilities and local churches offer programs. It's essential to confirm transportation logistics, daily schedules, and what happens on early-release days and school holidays, as coverage varies. Registration for these programs often fills quickly, so inquire with your child's school and local providers early in the summer.