The Best Daycare Centers in Lyerly, GA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lyerly. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lyerly
The Learning Tree Academy
The Learning Tree Academy
The Learning Tree Academy is a highly-regarded childcare center located just 8 miles from Lyerly in Summerville. They offer a comprehensive educational curriculum that includes the Abeka Christian-based program combined with hands-on learning activities. The facility features secure classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and certified teachers with early childhood education credentials. Their program emphasizes literacy development, social skills, and kindergarten readiness with low student-teacher ratios. The center maintains rigorous safety protocols including secured entry systems and regular safety drills. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment and strong communication from experienced staff.
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Little People's Learning Center
Little People's Learning Center
Little People's Learning Center has served the Chattooga County area for nearly two decades, located approximately 7 miles from Lyerly. They provide a structured learning environment with a play-based curriculum that incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and creative arts. The center features certified early childhood educators with an average of 8+ years experience. Their facility includes modern security systems, nutritional meal programs, and spacious indoor/outdoor play areas. The center is known for its individualized attention to each child's developmental needs and strong parent-teacher partnerships. They maintain excellent state compliance records and offer flexible scheduling options.
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Creative Learning Center
Creative Learning Center
Creative Learning Center serves the broader Northwest Georgia region from their LaFayette location, approximately 15 miles from Lyerly. They implement a balanced approach combining academic preparation with social-emotional development through the Creative Curriculum system. The center features state-licensed teachers with specialized training in early childhood development and maintains small class sizes for personalized attention. Their facility includes secure entry systems, camera monitoring, and modern educational resources. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, character development, and school readiness skills. Parents consistently report high satisfaction with the center's communication, cleanliness, and the professional qualifications of their teaching staff.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lyerly, GA
What types of licensed childcare options are available in Lyerly, GA, and how do I verify their licensing status?
In Lyerly and the surrounding Chattooga County area, licensed childcare options primarily include family childcare learning homes (in-home providers caring for up to 6 children) and potentially smaller childcare centers. Due to Lyerly's size, many parents also consider providers in nearby Summerville or Menlo. To verify a provider's license, you must check with Georgia's Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL). You can use the "Find Child Care" search tool on the **DECAL website** or call their office. Always confirm the license is current and review any compliance history. This is crucial as Georgia has specific standards for staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, and health/safety protocols that licensed providers must follow.
What is the average cost for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Lyerly, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Lyerly and Chattooga County, full-time daycare costs are generally lower than state metro averages but can vary. For an infant, you might expect to pay approximately **$100-$140 per week** at a licensed family childcare home. A toddler slot may range from **$90-$125 per week**. Costs at centers in neighboring towns can be slightly higher. For financial assistance, Georgia's Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) program is the primary resource. Eligibility is based on income, work, or school enrollment. You can apply through the Georgia Gateway portal or contact the Chattooga County Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS) for guidance. Some local churches or community organizations may also offer limited sliding-scale spots.
Are daycare waitlists common in Lyerly, and how far in advance should I start looking for care?
While Lyerly is a small community with fewer formal centers, quality licensed home providers often have limited capacity and can have waitlists, especially for infants. It is highly recommended to begin your search **at least 3-4 months** before you need care. For infant spots, starting 6 months in advance is wise. Be proactive by contacting providers directly, asking about their enrollment process and typical waitlist duration. Don't hesitate to also explore options in Summerville (about a 10-minute drive), which may offer more availability but could also have waitlists. Getting on multiple lists is a common strategy for parents in the area.
What are some key questions to ask a potential in-home daycare provider in Lyerly during a tour or interview?
When touring a family childcare home in Lyerly, ask specific questions to ensure quality and safety. Key questions include: "What is your daily schedule and philosophy on learning and discipline?" "Can you provide your current DECAL license number and recent inspection summary?" "What is your emergency plan for severe weather or medical situations, given our rural location?" "How do you handle meals and naps?" "What are your policies for sick children and your own backup care?" Also, ask for references from current or former parents. Observing how the provider interacts with children in their care during your visit is one of the most important assessments.
For parents with non-traditional work hours, are there any childcare providers in the Lyerly area that offer evening, weekend, or flexible care?
Finding childcare for non-traditional hours (evenings, weekends, overnight) in Lyerly is challenging, as most licensed home providers operate on a standard weekday schedule. Your best course of action is to inquire directly with local providers if they offer or would consider flexible hours, possibly for an adjusted rate. You may also need to look toward Summerville or even Fort Payne, AL, for larger centers with extended hours. Another potential solution is to explore shared nanny arrangements with other local families in similar situations or utilize trusted, unlicensed family, friend, or neighbor (FFN) care. Always ensure any caregiver you choose has proper safety knowledge and a reliable background, even in informal arrangements.