The Best Daycare Centers in Wheelwright, KY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Wheelwright. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Wheelwright
Little Scholars Preschool & Childcare Center
Little Scholars Early Learning Centers
Little Scholars Preschool & Childcare Center is a highly-regarded early childhood education facility serving the Wheelwright area from nearby Prestonsburg. They employ a comprehensive STEAM-based curriculum that integrates science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics into daily learning activities. All lead teachers hold early childhood education degrees or certifications, and the center maintains exceptionally low student-teacher ratios. The facility features secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and modern security cameras throughout. Their program includes nutritious meal plans, outdoor playgrounds with age-appropriate equipment, and regular developmental assessments. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, educational quality, and nurturing environment that promotes both academic and social-emotional development.
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Mountain Tiny Tots Learning Center
Mountain Tiny Tots LLC
Mountain Tiny Tots Learning Center has served Eastern Kentucky families for over 15 years with a play-based learning approach that emphasizes developmental milestones. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum standards with Montessori-inspired elements, focusing on hands-on learning and individualized instruction. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, regular safety drills, and comprehensive health protocols. Staff includes certified early childhood educators with specialized training in infant/toddler development and preschool education. The center offers extended hours to accommodate working families, provides nutritious meals and snacks, and maintains small class sizes for personalized attention. Their outdoor learning environment includes nature exploration areas and developmental playground equipment.
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Kiddie Kottage of Hazard
Kiddie Kottage Child Development Centers
Kiddie Kottage of Hazard is an established childcare provider serving the Wheelwright region with a comprehensive early childhood program focused on school readiness. Their research-based curriculum emphasizes literacy development, mathematical thinking, and social skills through structured learning centers and guided play. The facility maintains state-of-the-art security systems including surveillance monitoring, secure check-in/out procedures, and staff emergency preparedness training. Qualified educators implement age-appropriate lesson plans aligned with Kentucky Early Childhood Standards. The center features dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, developmental appropriate learning materials throughout all classrooms, and secure outdoor play spaces. Parents consistently report high satisfaction with the center's communication, experienced staff, and the visible developmental progress children make in their care.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Wheelwright, KY
What types of licensed childcare options are available in Wheelwright, KY, and how can I verify their licensing status?
In Wheelwright, licensed childcare options primarily include family childcare homes and potentially some smaller daycare centers. Due to the city's size, large corporate childcare chains are uncommon. The main types are: 1) Licensed Family Child Care Homes, which care for up to 6-12 children in a provider's residence, and 2) Certified Child Care Homes, which care for up to 6 children. To verify a provider's licensing status, you must contact the Kentucky Division of Child Care directly or use their online search tools. The local resource, the Big Sandy Area Community Action Program (BSACAP), which serves Floyd County, can also provide referrals and information on licensed providers in the Wheelwright area. Always ask the provider for their state-issued license number and check for any recent violations.
What is the typical cost for full-time daycare in Wheelwright, and are there any financial assistance programs available for local families?
In Wheelwright and the surrounding Floyd County area, full-time daycare costs are generally lower than state and national averages, but availability is limited. For an infant, you might expect to pay between $100-$150 per week at a licensed family home. For toddlers and preschoolers, weekly rates may range from $80-$120. Costs can vary based on the provider's experience, hours, and whether meals are included. Financial assistance is available through the Kentucky Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which is income-based. Eligibility is determined by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. Local families can apply through the BSACAP office or the state's online portal. Due to limited provider options, it's crucial to confirm that your chosen provider accepts CCAP subsidies.
How long are waitlists for daycare in Wheelwright, and what can I do to secure a spot for my child?
Given the limited number of providers in a small community like Wheelwright, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant care. It's not uncommon for a sought-after licensed family home to have a waitlist of 6 months to a year. To secure a spot, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Contact all licensed providers in Wheelwright and neighboring towns like Martin or Prestonsburg. Be prepared to place a non-refundable deposit to hold a spot. Networking through local community groups, churches, or Facebook groups for Floyd County parents can also help you discover potential openings or newly licensed providers that may not be widely advertised yet.
What are the state-mandated staff-to-child ratios and training requirements for daycare providers in Kentucky, and how does this impact care in Wheelwright?
Kentucky state regulations set strict staff-to-child ratios based on age. For infants (0-12 months), the ratio is 1 staff member for every 5 infants. For toddlers (1-2 years), it's 1:6, and for preschoolers (3-4 years), it's 1:10. All licensed providers must complete 15 hours of annual training in areas like health/safety, child development, and first aid/CPR. In Wheelwright's smaller, home-based settings, these ratios mean your child will likely be in a mixed-age group with fewer total children, which can allow for more personalized attention. However, it also means capacity is very limited. Parents should ask providers about their specific training and how they manage mixed-age groups to ensure safe and appropriate supervision.
Are there any part-time, drop-in, or after-school childcare options available in Wheelwright for school-aged children?
Formal part-time or drop-in daycare options are extremely scarce in Wheelwright itself. Most licensed family homes prioritize full-time, consistent schedules. For after-school care, your best option is to inquire with the local Wheelwright Elementary School about any existing programs or partnerships. Often, in small towns, informal care networks with trusted neighbors or relatives are common. For occasional drop-in needs, you may need to look at larger centers in Prestonsburg (about a 20-minute drive), which may offer more flexible arrangements. Connecting with other parents through the school or community center is the most practical way to find reliable, informal after-school or part-time care solutions within the community.