The Best Daycare Centers in Waco, GA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Waco. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Waco
Primrose School of Carrollton
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Carrollton follows the exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum that blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance from teachers. The school features STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) activities, character development programs, and literacy-rich environments. All teachers are trained in early childhood development and maintain low student-to-teacher ratios. The facility includes secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning spaces. Their approach emphasizes social-emotional development alongside academic readiness, with regular parent communication through the Primrose Schools app.
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The Goddard School of Carrollton
Goddard Systems, LLC
The Goddard School of Carrollton implements the F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on play-based learning and developmental milestones. Their curriculum includes language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and creative arts, with additional enrichment programs in yoga, music, and Spanish. The facility features secure keypad entry, indoor and outdoor play areas, and classroom webcams for parent viewing. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes individualized learning plans and maintains comprehensive safety protocols including regular health screenings.
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Kids 'R' Kids Learning Academy of Villa Rica
Kids 'R' Kids International
Kids 'R' Kids Learning Academy of Villa Rica offers the exclusive Brain Development curriculum designed to stimulate cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. Their facility features interactive whiteboards in classrooms, secured entry systems with video monitoring, and large playgrounds with safety surfaces. The academy provides balanced meals and snacks through their nutrition program and maintains an open-door policy for parents. Teachers are CPR and First Aid certified with ongoing training in child development best practices. Their approach includes STEAM activities, literacy programs, and character education, with regular progress reports and parent-teacher conferences to track developmental milestones.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Waco, GA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Waco, GA, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Waco, GA, all childcare learning centers and family daycare homes must be licensed by the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL). This state agency sets strict standards for staff-to-child ratios based on age, background checks for all employees, health and safety protocols, and curriculum requirements. To verify a facility's compliance and view its inspection history, you can use the free "Quality Rated" search tool on DECAL's official website. This tool will show you the facility's license status, any quality rating (Georgia's voluntary star-rating system), and details of any regulatory violations. It's a crucial first step for any parent in the Waco area.
What is the average cost of full-time infant daycare in Waco, GA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
The cost of childcare in Waco and the surrounding Paulding County area is generally lower than in metro Atlanta but can vary. For full-time infant care, parents can expect to pay an average of $150 to $200 per week at a licensed center. Family daycare homes may be slightly less expensive. For financial assistance, Georgia's Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) program is the primary resource. Eligibility is based on family income, and the program can subsidize a significant portion of the cost at participating providers. You can apply through the Georgia Gateway website. Additionally, some local centers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Waco, and when should I start looking for infant care?
Due to high demand for quality care, especially for infants who require lower staff-to-child ratios, waitlists in Waco and the broader Paulding County region are common. For popular centers, waitlists of 6 to 12 months for infant rooms are not unusual. It is highly recommended that expecting parents in Waco begin touring facilities and getting on waitlists during the first or second trimester of pregnancy. When you place your name on a list, be sure to ask about the deposit policy (often refundable or applicable to tuition) and how often you need to check in to keep your spot active.
What are some key factors to consider when choosing between a home-based daycare and a center-based program in Waco?
This is a common consideration for Waco parents. Center-based programs often offer more structured curricula, multiple classrooms by age, and potentially more resources. Home-based daycares (licensed family child care learning homes) typically offer a smaller, family-like setting with mixed-age groups, which can be beneficial for siblings, and often have more flexible hours. In Waco, you should visit both types. For homes, verify their DECAL license is posted. Consider your child's temperament, your need for schedule flexibility, and the provider's emergency plans. Both types must meet state safety standards, but the environment and daily rhythm will differ significantly.
Are there any unique outdoor or enrichment opportunities offered by daycares in the Waco, GA area?
Many daycare providers in Waco leverage the local community and Georgia's natural environment. It's common to find centers with dedicated outdoor play areas that include age-appropriate equipment, gardens for children to learn about planting, and shaded spaces for summer. Given Waco's proximity to rural areas and larger towns like Dallas, GA, some programs may incorporate themes about local agriculture or animals. For enrichment, look for centers that include weekly activities like music and movement, basic Spanish exposure, or partnerships with the Paulding County library system for storytime. Always ask about the daily schedule to understand how much structured outdoor play and special enrichment is included.