The Best Daycare Centers in Mc Andrews, KY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Mc Andrews. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Mc Andrews
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Pikeville offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Their curriculum includes STEAM learning, literacy development, and character enrichment programs. Features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and regular safety drills. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, bright classrooms with natural lighting, and dedicated art and music areas.
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Little Learners Academy
Independent
Little Learners Academy provides a nurturing environment with a play-based learning approach that incorporates Creative Curriculum standards. Their program emphasizes hands-on learning through learning centers, outdoor exploration, and structured group activities. Maintains low teacher-to-child ratios with all lead teachers having CDA credentials or higher. Safety features include secured entry systems, comprehensive video monitoring, and strict health protocols. The center offers nutritious meals and snacks through their USDA-approved food program and maintains strong parent communication through daily reports and a dedicated parent portal.
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Mountain Comprehensive Care Center Head Start
Mountain Comprehensive Care Corporation
Mountain Comprehensive Care Center Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education and family support services with a focus on school readiness and whole-child development. Their evidence-based curriculum addresses cognitive, social-emotional, and physical development while incorporating health, nutrition, and family engagement components. All teachers meet Head Start program qualifications with bachelor's degrees in early childhood education. The program includes health screenings, dental care, and nutritional services at no cost to eligible families. Features inclusive classrooms that support children with special needs and strong parent involvement opportunities through policy councils and family events.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Mc Andrews, KY
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Mc Andrews, Kentucky, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Mc Andrews, all childcare centers and certified family childcare homes must be licensed by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS). Key requirements include background checks for all staff, age-appropriate child-to-staff ratios (e.g., 1:5 for infants), annual health and safety inspections, and staff training in CPR, first aid, and prevention of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). To verify a facility's compliance and view its inspection history, you can use the state's online "Child Care Provider Search" tool on the CHFS website or contact the local Division of Regulated Child Care office serving Floyd County. It's always recommended to visit in person and ask to see their current license.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Mc Andrews, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Mc Andrews and the surrounding Floyd County area, average costs for full-time, center-based infant care typically range from $125 to $175 per week. For toddlers, the cost may be slightly lower, around $110 to $160 per week. Home-based daycare is often more affordable. Financial assistance is available for eligible families through the Kentucky Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which is administered locally. Eligibility is based on income, work or training requirements, and family size. You can apply through the Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) office in Prestonsburg, which serves Floyd County. Some local centers may also offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Mc Andrews, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Mc Andrews, waitlists for the most sought-after centers, especially for infant care, can be significant. It's not uncommon for families to be on a waitlist for 6 to 12 months. We strongly recommend beginning your search during pregnancy, ideally by the second trimester. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current waitlist length, their policy for securing a spot (e.g., a deposit), and how often they update families on their position. Exploring certified family childcare homes can provide more immediate availability and is a crucial alternative in this area.
Are there any unique local resources or programs in Mc Andrews that support early childhood development and childcare?
Yes, Mc Andrews and Floyd County benefit from several regional resources. The Floyd County Schools system often collaborates with local childcare providers for early screening and transition to preschool. The local public library in a neighboring town like Prestonsburg offers story times and early literacy programs beneficial for daycare providers and parents. Furthermore, the Kentucky All STARS quality rating system is a key resource; look for providers with a high STAR rating (1-5), as this indicates they exceed minimum licensing standards in areas like curriculum, staff qualifications, and family engagement. The community also has access to health services through the Mountain Comprehensive Health Corporation, which can support childcare health requirements.
What should I look for when touring a daycare in Mc Andrews, given the specific setting of a small Appalachian community?
When touring in Mc Andrews, look for both universal quality indicators and local adaptations. Ensure the facility is clean, safe, and has secure access. Observe how staff interact with children—warm, responsive care is crucial. Specifically, ask about their plan for emergency communication and transportation, given the rural terrain and potential for weather-related issues. Inquire about their connection to the local community; do they incorporate local culture or outdoor activities suited to the Appalachian environment? Check for proper heating and cooling systems. Finally, talk to other parents in the community; personal recommendations are incredibly valuable in a close-knit area like ours for understanding a provider's reputation and reliability.