The Best Daycare Centers in Perkins, GA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Perkins. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Perkins
Kiddie Academy of Dublin
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Dublin is a highly-regarded educational childcare center located approximately 15 miles from Perkins. They follow the Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and creative arts. The center features state-certified teachers with early childhood education credentials, secure keypad entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers. The academy emphasizes communication with parents through daily reports and a mobile app, and provides nutritious meals prepared on-site. Their strong emphasis on school readiness and developmental milestones makes them a top choice for families in the Perkins area.
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The Learning Tree Child Development Center
Independent
The Learning Tree Child Development Center in Dublin serves the Perkins community with a comprehensive early childhood education program. They utilize Creative Curriculum with a focus on hands-on learning and individualized development. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and employs qualified early childhood educators with CPR and First Aid certification. Their facility features secure access control, modern classrooms with educational technology, and shaded outdoor play areas. The center offers enrichment programs including music, movement, and Spanish language exposure. Parents consistently praise the center's warm environment, experienced staff, and strong communication about child progress and daily activities.
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Primrose School of Dublin
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Dublin offers Balanced Learning® curriculum that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. Located about 15 miles from Perkins, this nationally accredited facility provides a research-based approach to early education with emphasis on character development and academic readiness. The school features secure facilities with surveillance systems, dedicated age-specific learning environments, and structured outdoor learning spaces. Their program includes music, art, and physical development activities integrated into daily routines. The center is known for its highly qualified staff, comprehensive safety protocols, and strong parent partnership approach with regular progress updates and family engagement events.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Perkins, GA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Perkins, Georgia, and how can I verify a facility's compliance?
In Perkins, Georgia, all childcare learning centers and group daycare homes must be licensed by the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL). This includes rigorous standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training in CPR/First Aid), health and safety protocols, and facility requirements. To verify a specific daycare's license status, compliance history, and any inspection reports, you can use the free "Bright from the Start: Quality Rated" search tool on the DECAL website or contact the DECAL office directly. This is a crucial first step for Perkins parents to ensure a facility meets state-mandated safety standards.
What is the typical cost range for full-time infant and toddler daycare in Perkins, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Perkins area, full-time daycare for infants can range from approximately $120 to $180 per week, while toddler care may be slightly lower, around $110 to $160 per week. These costs can vary based on the center's amenities, whether it is a home-based or center-based facility, and if it holds a state Quality Rating. 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 or contact the local Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS) office serving Jenkins County for guidance.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in and around Perkins, and when should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of licensed childcare facilities in a smaller community like Perkins, waitlists for highly-regarded centers, especially for infant care, can be significant. It is not uncommon for waitlists to be 6 to 12 months long. We strongly recommend that expecting parents or families planning a move to the area begin their search and get on waitlists as early as possible, ideally during the second trimester of pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before care is needed. Don't hesitate to also explore licensed family daycare homes in the community, as they may have more immediate openings and offer a smaller, home-like setting.
Are there any daycare centers or preschools in Perkins that offer specialized programs, such as Georgia's Pre-K or programs for children with special needs?
While specific offerings can change, parents in Perkins should inquire about the availability of Georgia's state-funded Pre-K Program, which provides free, high-quality preschool for eligible 4-year-olds. Some local daycare centers may host a Pre-K classroom. For children with special needs, all licensed centers must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). For more specialized support, you can contact the local school district's special education department or DECAL for referrals to inclusive programs. Given Perkins' size, you may need to look at providers in nearby larger towns like Statesboro for a wider range of specialized options.
What are some key local factors to consider when touring a daycare in Perkins, beyond the basic state requirements?
When touring daycares in a rural community like Perkins, consider these local factors: **Transportation and Accessibility:** Does the center provide or help coordinate transportation, especially given the distances between homes? **Outdoor Play Space:** Given the area's setting, assess the safety and quality of outdoor play areas—are they secure, shaded, and well-maintained? **Community Connections:** Does the center incorporate local culture or outings (e.g., visits to local farms or libraries)? **Staff Longevity:** In a small town, low staff turnover can indicate a stable, positive environment. Ask about how long caregivers have been there. **Emergency Preparedness:** Inquire about specific plans for weather events common to the region and protocols for communication if local roads are affected.