The Best Daycare Centers in Benton, KY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Benton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Benton
Benton Head Start Center
Community Action Program of West Kentucky
Benton Head Start Center provides comprehensive early childhood education through the federally-funded Head Start program. The center focuses on school readiness with a research-based curriculum that addresses cognitive, social, and emotional development. Certified teachers implement developmentally appropriate practices in literacy, math, and science. The program includes health screenings, nutritious meals, and family engagement services. What sets this center apart is its holistic approach that supports the entire family, with parent education and community resources. The facility maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and all staff undergo extensive background checks and ongoing professional development.
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Murray State University Child Care Center
Murray State University
Located approximately 15 miles from Benton, Murray State University Child Care Center serves the broader Marshall County area with exceptional early childhood programs. As a university-affiliated center, it maintains the highest educational standards with degreed early childhood educators and a play-based learning curriculum. The center features age-appropriate learning environments, outdoor nature exploration areas, and STEM-focused activities. Safety is paramount with secure entry systems, comprehensive health protocols, and regular safety drills. The center is particularly noted for its low student-teacher ratios and innovative programming that incorporates university resources and research-based practices.
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Kiddie Kare Learning Center
Independent
Serving the Benton area from nearby Calvert City, Kiddie Kare Learning Center offers a comprehensive early childhood program with a strong emphasis on individualized learning. The center uses Creative Curriculum combined with hands-on learning experiences to foster cognitive, social, and physical development. Features include secure indoor and outdoor play areas, nutritious meal programs, and technology-enhanced learning stations. The teaching staff includes certified early childhood educators with specialized training in child development. The center stands out for its flexible scheduling options, extended hours, and strong parent communication system that includes daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Benton, KY
What are the licensing requirements for daycare centers in Benton, KY, and how can I verify a provider's status?
In Benton, Kentucky, all childcare centers and certified family childcare homes must be licensed by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), Division of Child Care. Licensing ensures facilities meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training), and program activities. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the state's online "Child Care Provider Search" tool on the CHFS website or contact the Division of Child Care directly. It's highly recommended to check for any recent violations or compliance issues. Many Benton-area providers also participate in the state's STARS for KIDS NOW quality rating system, which offers another layer of evaluation.
What is the average cost of full-time infant daycare in Benton, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Benton and the surrounding Marshall County area, the average cost for full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $130 to $180 per week. Prices can vary based on the type of facility (center-based vs. home-based), its STAR quality rating, and included amenities like meals. For financial assistance, Kentucky's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps eligible low-income families, working parents, or those in education/training programs pay for childcare. Applications are processed through the Marshall County Department for Community Based Services (DCBS). Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Benton, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Waitlists for daycare, especially for infants and toddlers, are common in Benton due to limited capacity and high demand. Popular centers may have waitlists ranging from 3 to 9 months, or even longer. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 6 months before your needed start date. When contacting providers, ask specific questions about their list: how many families are ahead of you, how often it's updated, and if a deposit is required to hold a spot. Exploring both center-based and licensed home-based options in Benton and nearby communities like Calvert City can increase your chances of finding an opening sooner.
What are the options for drop-in or part-time childcare in Benton for occasional needs?
Regular drop-in or hourly childcare is limited among licensed centers in Benton, as most prioritize full-time and part-time enrolled children. However, some licensed family childcare homes may offer more flexible arrangements. For true occasional care (like a parent's appointment), your best local resources are often informal networks or seeking registered babysitters. You can check community boards at places like the Marshall County Public Library or local Facebook groups (e.g., "Benton, KY Community"). For more structured part-time options (e.g., 2-3 days a week), some centers may offer it if space allows, but availability is not guaranteed and often depends on their current enrollment patterns.
Are there any daycare centers in Benton that offer preschool or early education curricula as part of their program?
Yes, several daycare centers in Benton integrate structured preschool or early learning curricula for children ages 3-5. These programs often align with Kentucky's Early Childhood Standards and focus on kindergarten readiness skills in literacy, math, and social development. Look for centers that advertise a "preschool program" or those with higher STARS ratings (3, 4, or 5 stars), as they are required to implement comprehensive learning standards. Some providers may also partner with the Marshall County School District for collaborative programs. When touring, ask specifically about their daily schedule, curriculum name (like Creative Curriculum or HighScope), and how they track and communicate your child's developmental progress.