The Best Daycare Centers in Abita Springs, LA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Abita Springs. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Abita Springs
The Goddard School of Covington
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Covington offers a premier early childhood education program serving families throughout St. Tammany Parish, including Abita Springs. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) focuses on developmental milestones through play-based learning, STEM activities, and literacy development. The school features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and low student-teacher ratios. Certified teachers implement age-appropriate curricula with daily progress reports and parent communication. The facility includes multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups, indoor motor skills areas, and specialized learning centers. Their nutrition program provides healthy meals and snacks, and they offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate working families.
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Primrose School of Covington
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Covington provides balanced learning through their exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum, combining academic preparation with character development. Serving Abita Springs and surrounding communities, the school emphasizes hands-on learning experiences, foreign language exposure, and music appreciation. The facility features secure entry systems, CCTV monitoring, and strict health and safety protocols. All lead teachers hold early childhood education credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. The campus includes age-specific playgrounds, interactive learning spaces, and dedicated art and music rooms. Their exclusive Harmony & Heart® program incorporates music and movement, while their literacy-rich environment promotes early reading skills. Parent communication includes daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences.
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Children's Lighthouse Learning Center - Mandeville
Children's Lighthouse Franchising Company
Children's Lighthouse of Mandeville serves families throughout St. Tammany Parish with their proprietary Values-Based Education® curriculum that integrates character development with academic readiness. The center features comprehensive security measures including biometric entry systems, surveillance monitoring, and strict pickup authorization procedures. Their literacy-focused approach includes the Open Court Reading curriculum and daily Spanish instruction. The facility offers multiple age-appropriate playgrounds, dedicated computer labs, and spacious classrooms with modern learning materials. Their staff includes degreed early childhood educators who receive ongoing training in child development and safety protocols. The center provides nutritious meals prepared on-site and maintains small class sizes with optimal teacher-child ratios. Extended hours and flexible scheduling accommodate commuting families from Abita Springs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Abita Springs, LA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Abita Springs, LA, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Abita Springs, all childcare centers and family daycare homes must be licensed by the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE), specifically through their Early Childhood Care and Education Division. Licensing ensures facilities meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and staff qualifications. You can verify a provider's license status and view any inspection reports by using the "Child Care Search" tool on the LDOE website. For smaller, registered family childcare homes (caring for 7-12 children), you can also check with the local resource and referral agency, the St. Tammany Parish Early Childhood Network. It's always a good practice to ask the provider directly for their license number and the date of their last inspection.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with the cost of childcare for families in Abita Springs?
Yes, Louisiana offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which provides financial assistance to eligible low-income families, those in job training, or parents attending school. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care. In Abita Springs and St. Tammany Parish, you apply through the Louisiana Department of Education. Additionally, the St. Tammany Parish Public School System offers LA 4 and Cecil J. Picard LA Pre-K programs for eligible 4-year-olds, which are free, high-quality preschool programs that may be housed within some local daycare centers or elementary schools. Contact the St. Tammany Parish School Board's Early Childhood Department for specific availability and enrollment details.
What is the typical cost range for full-time infant and toddler daycare in Abita Springs, and are waitlists common?
In Abita Springs and the surrounding St. Tammany Parish area, full-time daycare for infants (0-18 months) typically ranges from $175 to $225 per week. For toddlers (18 months to 3 years), costs are slightly lower, averaging $150 to $200 per week. These rates can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and whether it is a center or a licensed home daycare. Due to high demand and limited infant slots (because of stricter staff-to-child ratios), waitlists for infant care are very common and can be several months long. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists during pregnancy or as early as possible.
What unique types of childcare or educational philosophies are available in the Abita Springs area?
Reflecting its unique community character, Abita Springs offers a variety of childcare approaches. You can find traditional centers, faith-based programs (often affiliated with local churches), and licensed family home daycares. Notably, the area has providers that emphasize outdoor and nature-based learning, taking advantage of Louisiana's natural environment. Some centers incorporate elements of Montessori or play-based philosophies. Additionally, several providers integrate aspects of local culture, such as music or seasonal community events like the Abita Springs Opry or Trailhead activities. It's best to visit facilities and ask specifically about their daily curriculum and educational philosophy to find the best fit for your child.
How do I find and evaluate in-home family daycare options in Abita Springs?
Finding licensed family childcare homes in Abita Springs can be done through the Louisiana Department of Education's online search tool or by contacting the St. Tammany Parish Early Childhood Network for referrals. When evaluating a home daycare, schedule an in-person visit and ask key questions: verify their LDOE license, ask about their emergency preparedness plan (especially for hurricanes common to Southeast Louisiana), check their backyard or play area for safety, and inquire about their daily schedule and meal provisions. It's also crucial to ask for references from current or former parents. Given the more intimate setting, ensuring your parenting philosophies align with the provider's on topics like discipline, screen time, and naps is especially important.