The Best Daycare Centers in Raccoon, KY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Raccoon. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Raccoon
The Goddard School of Prestonsburg
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Prestonsburg offers a premier early childhood education program serving the Raccoon area with their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience). This nationally accredited facility features state-certified teachers with degrees in early childhood education, low student-to-teacher ratios, and comprehensive security systems including keypad entry and surveillance. Their play-based curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, arts, and social development in modern, clean classrooms with both indoor and outdoor play spaces. The school provides nutritious meals and maintains excellent health and safety protocols with regular professional development for staff.
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Kiddie Kottage Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Kottage Learning Center has served Floyd County families for nearly two decades with a comprehensive early childhood program. Their curriculum emphasizes school readiness through structured learning activities, creative arts, and hands-on exploration. The center features age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor playgrounds, and certified early childhood educators with ongoing training in child development. They maintain strict safety protocols including secure entry systems, regular safety drills, and thorough background checks for all staff. The program includes nutritional meal service and maintains excellent communication with parents through daily reports and regular conferences.
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Little Learners Academy
Independent
Little Learners Academy provides quality childcare and early education with a focus on individual child development and kindergarten readiness. Their research-based curriculum incorporates literacy development, mathematical thinking, and social-emotional learning through structured play and guided activities. The facility features modern security systems, clean and organized classrooms, and experienced teaching staff with certifications in early childhood education. They offer flexible scheduling options and maintain small class sizes to ensure personalized attention. The academy emphasizes parent partnership with regular progress updates and family involvement opportunities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Raccoon, KY
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Raccoon, Kentucky, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Raccoon, 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 providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and training. For centers, there are different classifications (Class I, II, III) based on the hours of operation and services offered. You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any serious violations by using the "Find Child Care" search tool on the Kentucky CHFS website. It's highly recommended to visit any potential daycare in person and ask to see their current license, which should be posted.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with the cost of daycare in Raccoon, KY?
Yes, the primary program is the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), administered by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. Eligibility for CCAP is based on family income, household size, and the reason for care (e.g., employment, education, or participation in a training program). Given Raccoon's location in a rural part of Kentucky, many families may qualify. You apply through the local Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) office serving Pike County. Additionally, some local community action agencies or non-profits may offer limited scholarships or sliding-scale fees. It's important to apply early, as funding can be limited and there may be a waitlist.
What is the typical cost range for full-time infant daycare in Raccoon, and are waitlists common?
In Raccoon and the surrounding Pike County area, full-time infant daycare costs typically range from $120 to $180 per week. Prices can vary based on the type of facility (center-based vs. home-based), the specific services offered, and whether meals are included. Due to the rural nature of the community and a limited number of licensed providers, especially for infants who require lower staff-to-child ratios, waitlists are very common. It is advisable for parents to begin their search and get on waitlists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy or several months before they need care to secure a spot.
What are the main types of childcare options available specifically in Raccoon, KY?
Parents in Raccoon generally have three main licensed options: 1) **Child Care Centers**: These are larger facilities, often associated with churches, schools, or community organizations. They offer structured programs for multiple age groups. 2) **Certified Family Child Care Homes**: These are smaller, home-based settings run by a certified provider, often caring for a mixed-age group of up to 12 children. This can be a popular option in rural areas for a more home-like environment. 3) **Registered Family Child Care Homes**: These care for up to 4 unrelated children and have fewer regulatory requirements. There are also informal options like relative care. Given Raccoon's size, certified family homes may be the most prevalent licensed option.
How does Kentucky's "STARS for KIDS NOW" quality rating system work, and should I look for a highly-rated daycare in Raccoon?
Kentucky's voluntary quality rating and improvement system is called STARS for KIDS NOW. Programs are rated on a scale from 1 to 5 stars, based on criteria like staff qualifications and training, learning environment, and family engagement. A higher star rating indicates a program that exceeds the minimum licensing standards. While participation is voluntary, seeking a STAR-rated provider in Raccoon is highly recommended as it signifies a commitment to quality. You can filter for STAR-rated programs on the state's child care search website. However, due to provider availability in a small community, a 3-star family childcare home might be an excellent choice even if a 5-star center isn't locally available. Always visit and assess the fit for your child.