The Best Daycare Centers in Mount Vernon, KY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Mount Vernon. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Mount Vernon
Rockcastle County Head Start
Community Action Council
Rockcastle County Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education with a focus on school readiness for low-income families. The program offers developmentally appropriate curriculum, health and nutrition services, and strong family engagement components. Staff are trained in early childhood development and follow Kentucky's early learning standards. The center emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy, and mathematics through play-based learning. They maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios and provide transportation services for enrolled families.
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Little Learners Academy
Independent
Located in nearby Berea, Little Learners Academy serves families throughout Rockcastle and Madison counties with a comprehensive educational program. They feature a research-based curriculum that includes STEM activities, literacy development, and creative arts. The center maintains state-exceeding safety standards with secure entry systems and comprehensive background checks for all staff. Teachers hold early childhood certifications and participate in ongoing professional development. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, dedicated learning centers, and modern classroom technology.
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Kiddie Kottage Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Kottage Learning Center in Berea provides quality childcare services to families in the Rockcastle County region. The center offers a balanced curriculum combining academic preparation with social development activities. Their program includes daily structured learning time, outdoor play, and enrichment activities such as music and movement. The facility features secure classrooms, modern learning materials, and nutritious meal programs. Staff are CPR and First Aid certified, with many holding degrees in early childhood education. The center is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and strong communication with parents.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Mount Vernon, KY
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Mount Vernon, KY, and how can I verify a facility is in good standing?
In Mount Vernon, 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 providers meet standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and training. You can verify a provider's license status and view any past violations through the state's online "Child Care Provider Search" tool on the CHFS website. It's highly recommended to check this database and even request to see the facility's current license during your visit. The Rockcastle County Health Department may also be a local resource for general information on regulated childcare.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Mount Vernon, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In the Mount Vernon and Rockcastle County area, full-time daycare for an infant can range from approximately $125 to $175 per week, while toddler care may be slightly less, around $110 to $150 per week. Costs can vary based on the facility's amenities, age of the child, and whether it's a center or a home-based provider. For financial assistance, Kentucky offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families based on income, work, or school attendance. You can apply through the local Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) office, which for Rockcastle County is located in Mt. Vernon. Some local providers may also offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts.
Are there many daycare options with extended hours or weekend care in Mount Vernon for parents working non-traditional shifts?
Finding daycare with extended evening or weekend hours in Mount Vernon can be challenging, as most licensed centers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM schedule. Your best bet for non-traditional hours is to seek out licensed family childcare homes, as some providers may offer more flexible schedules to accommodate shift workers. It's crucial to inquire directly with each provider about their specific hours and any additional fees for late pickups. Networking with other local parents or checking community boards at places like Rockcastle Regional Hospital can sometimes lead to recommendations for caregivers who accommodate irregular shifts.
What resources are available in Mount Vernon to help me find and compare local daycare providers?
A key resource is the state-sponsored "Child Care Provider Search" website, which allows you to filter by Mount Vernon (40515) or Rockcastle County to see all licensed options. Locally, you can contact the Rockcastle County Family Resource and Youth Services Centers (FRYSCs) associated with the public schools; they often maintain lists of local childcare providers. The Rockcastle County Public Library may also have community bulletin boards with information. Additionally, word-of-mouth through local Facebook community groups (e.g., "Rockcastle County Chat") is a very active way for parents to get personal recommendations and reviews.
How long are waitlists typically for daycare centers in Mount Vernon, and when should I start looking for care?
For the more sought-after daycare centers and preschools in Mount Vernon, waitlists can be several months long, especially for infant spots. It is not uncommon for parents to get on a waitlist as early as during pregnancy or 6-12 months before they need care. We recommend starting your search and making visits at least 4-6 months in advance of your needed start date. Be sure to ask each provider about their specific waitlist process, any fees to hold a spot, and how often you should check in. Exploring smaller, licensed family childcare homes can sometimes offer shorter wait times and more immediate availability.
Nearby Cities
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