The Best Daycare Centers in Mize, KY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Mize. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Mize
Wolfe County Head Start
Community Action Council
Wolfe County Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education services to families in Wolfe County and surrounding areas including Mize. As part of the Community Action Council network, this center offers evidence-based curriculum focusing on school readiness, social-emotional development, and cognitive skills. The program features highly qualified teachers with early childhood certifications, low student-teacher ratios, and family engagement services. They provide nutritious meals, health screenings, and developmental assessments. The center serves income-eligible families with a holistic approach that includes parent education and community resources.
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Little Learners Academy
Independent
Little Learners Academy is a highly-rated private childcare center serving Wolfe County and surrounding communities including Mize. The center offers a structured educational program with age-appropriate curriculum from infants through school-age children. Their approach emphasizes hands-on learning, literacy development, and social skills building. The facility features secure classrooms, outdoor play areas, and modern learning materials. Staff members hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing training. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, cleanliness, and the caring, experienced teaching staff who create a nurturing environment.
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Stanton Elementary Preschool
Powell County School District
Stanton Elementary Preschool serves children throughout Powell County and neighboring areas including Mize residents. This public school-based program offers high-quality early childhood education with certified teachers specializing in early childhood development. The curriculum aligns with Kentucky's early learning standards and focuses on literacy, mathematics, social studies, and science through play-based learning. The program includes both typical peers and children with special needs in an inclusive setting. The facility features purpose-built classrooms, secure entry systems, and age-appropriate playgrounds. The center is known for its strong parent-teacher partnerships and comprehensive approach to school readiness.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Mize, KY
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Mize, Kentucky, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Mize, 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. The state sets strict 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 provider's license and compliance history, you can use the state's online "Child Care Provider Search" tool on the CHFS website. This tool allows you to see the provider's license status, capacity, any cited violations, and inspection reports. For very small, legally exempt home providers (caring for only children from one unrelated family), licensing is not required, so parents should conduct extra diligence.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in the Mize area, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the rural nature of Mize and limited childcare options in Magoffin County, waitlists for licensed centers can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for infant care. It is highly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a move begin their search as early as possible—ideally during the first or second trimester of pregnancy. Many parents in Mize also explore licensed family childcare homes, which may have shorter waitlists but still require early inquiry. Contacting providers directly, getting on multiple lists, and following up periodically is a common strategy for securing a spot.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Mize, KY?
Childcare costs in Mize and surrounding Magoffin County are generally lower than state and national averages but can vary based on the type of provider. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay approximately $120 to $160 per week for full-time care. Licensed family childcare homes may range from $100 to $140 per week. These rates are for standard care; specialized programs or extended hours may cost more. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly fee (meals, snacks, supplies). Kentucky offers childcare assistance subsidies for eligible families through the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Are there any state or local programs in Kentucky that help with daycare costs for families in Mize?
Yes, the primary program is the Kentucky Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), administered by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. Eligibility is based on family income, work or training/education requirements, and the child's age. Given the economic profile of Magoffin County, many families in Mize may qualify. You can apply through the state's Benefind website or your local Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) office. Additionally, some local community action agencies or non-profits may offer limited scholarships or sliding scale fees. It's also worth checking if any providers participate in the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program, which can help with nutrition costs.
What alternative or backup childcare options exist in Mize if I can't find a traditional daycare spot?
Given the limited formal daycare slots, parents in Mize often utilize a combination of options. These include: 1. **Licensed Family Child Care Homes:** These smaller, home-based settings are more prevalent in rural areas and can offer more flexible hours. 2. **Shared Nanny/Babysitting Arrangements:** Some families coordinate with neighbors or relatives to share the cost of a caregiver. 3. **Part-Time Preschool Programs:** For children ages 3-5, the Magoffin County School District may offer preschool programs, though these are often part-day. 4. **Relatives/Family Care:** This is a very common solution, with grandparents or other family members providing care. 5. **Drop-in or Occasional Care:** While rare in Mize itself, some providers in nearby towns like Salyersville may offer limited drop-in services. Planning for backup care is crucial, as options are sparse and often require personal networking within the community.