The Best Daycare Centers in Manassas, GA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Manassas. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Manassas
The Goddard School of Valdosta
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Valdosta offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social-emotional development with low student-to-teacher ratios. All teachers are highly qualified with ongoing professional development, and the facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. The school serves families throughout South Georgia including Manassas residents, providing comprehensive developmental assessments and regular parent communication.
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Little Peoples Learning Center
Independent
Little Peoples Learning Center has been serving South Georgia families for nearly two decades with a comprehensive early childhood program. Their curriculum emphasizes school readiness through structured learning activities, creative arts, and hands-on experiences. The center maintains small class sizes with qualified early childhood educators and offers nutritious meals and snacks. Safety protocols include secure access, regular drills, and comprehensive background checks for all staff. The facility features modern classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers for different developmental stages.
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First Baptist Church Preschool & Child Development Center
First Baptist Church of Valdosta
First Baptist Church Preschool & Child Development Center provides a nurturing Christian environment with a strong academic foundation. Their program integrates faith-based values with developmentally appropriate curriculum that includes language development, math readiness, science exploration, and social skills. The center features experienced early childhood educators with low turnover rates, secure facilities with monitored access, and age-specific learning environments. They offer flexible scheduling options and serve as a trusted childcare provider for Manassas and surrounding communities, with emphasis on character development and school readiness skills.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Manassas, GA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Manassas, GA, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Georgia, all childcare learning centers and family daycare homes serving more than six children must be licensed by the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL). This includes facilities in Manassas. DECAL ensures providers meet standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, and curriculum. You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any compliance history by using the "Find Child Care" search tool on DECAL's official website. It's highly recommended to always choose a licensed provider, as this offers a baseline of regulatory oversight and safety for your child.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Manassas, GA?
Childcare costs in Manassas and the surrounding Tattnall County area are generally more affordable than in major Georgia metros like Atlanta or Savannah. For full-time care (5 days a week), you can expect to pay an average of approximately $120 to $160 per week for a toddler at a licensed center. Infant care is typically more expensive, often ranging from $140 to $180 per week due to lower staff-to-child ratios. Family daycare homes may offer slightly lower rates. It's important to note that costs can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and hours of operation. Some providers may also offer sliding scale fees or accept the Georgia CAPS subsidy for qualifying families.
Are there any state-funded pre-K programs available for 4-year-olds in Manassas, GA?
Yes, Georgia's nationally recognized Pre-K Program is available for eligible 4-year-olds in Manassas. This is a free, state-funded program typically hosted in licensed childcare centers, public schools, or private preschools. Enrollment is based on a lottery system and age eligibility (child must be 4 years old on or before September 1 of the school year). In Manassas and Tattnall County, these programs are often administered through the local public school system or partner private providers. You should contact the Tattnall County School District or search the DECAL website for a list of approved Pre-K providers in the 30438 zip code area. Spaces can be limited, so early registration during the open enrollment period is crucial.
What should I look for when touring a daycare center in a rural community like Manassas?
When touring daycares in Manassas, consider factors unique to a smaller, rural community. First, inquire about their emergency preparedness plans for situations like severe weather or medical emergencies, given potentially longer response times for emergency services. Ask about their outdoor play areas and how they ensure safety in a more natural, possibly less fenced environment. Discuss their policies on farm or animal exposure if the center is near agricultural land. Also, given the close-knit nature of the community, ask about staff longevity and turnover—consistent caregivers are a huge benefit. Finally, check their transportation policies if they offer pickup/drop-off from local pre-K or schools, as distances between locations can be greater.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in Manassas, and what can I do to secure a spot?
While waitlists in Manassas are generally shorter than in large cities, popular providers and the state Pre-K program can still have significant lists, especially for infant rooms. It's common to encounter wait times of 2 to 6 months for coveted spots. To improve your chances, start your search early—ideally during pregnancy for infant care. Get on multiple waitlists (even if there's a small fee) and maintain communication with the directors every few months. Be flexible with your start date if possible. Also, explore options in nearby towns like Reidsville or Glennville if you commute, as this can broaden your availability. Don't hesitate to ask a center about their specific timeline and process for moving through the waitlist.