The Best Daycare Centers in Edgard, LA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Edgard. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Edgard
Little Steps Learning Center
Independent
Little Steps Learning Center is a locally-owned childcare facility serving the Edgard community with a comprehensive early childhood education program. The center features a developmentally appropriate curriculum that emphasizes literacy, mathematics, and social-emotional learning through play-based activities. Their qualified teaching staff maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and focuses on individualized attention. The facility includes secure indoor learning environments and safe outdoor play areas with age-appropriate equipment. They provide nutritious meals and maintain strong communication with parents through daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences. The center is known for its warm, family-oriented atmosphere and commitment to preparing children for kindergarten success.
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Creative Kids Learning Center
Independent
Located in nearby Luling, Creative Kids Learning Center serves families throughout St. Charles Parish including Edgard. The center offers a research-based curriculum that incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and creative arts. Their experienced teaching staff includes certified early childhood educators who participate in ongoing professional development. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems, including coded entry and comprehensive monitoring. They provide balanced nutrition through their meal program and maintain excellent health and safety protocols. Parents consistently praise the center's engaging learning environment, qualified staff, and strong emphasis on school readiness skills. The center maintains NAEYC-aligned standards for quality early childhood education.
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LaPlace Academy
Independent
LaPlace Academy serves the River Parishes region including Edgard families, offering a comprehensive early childhood program with a strong academic foundation. The center utilizes the Creative Curriculum system, which balances structured learning with child-directed activities. Their qualified teaching team includes educators with degrees in early childhood education and specialized training in developmental milestones. The facility features modern classrooms, dedicated age-appropriate playgrounds, and enhanced security systems. The academy emphasizes character development, social skills, and kindergarten preparedness through their structured daily schedule. Parents appreciate the center's transparent communication, experienced leadership, and commitment to creating a nurturing learning environment that supports each child's individual growth and development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Edgard, LA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Edgard, Louisiana, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Edgard, as in all of Louisiana, childcare facilities must be licensed by the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE), Division of Licensing. This includes family daycares (Type II) and center-based facilities (Type III). Key requirements include staff-to-child ratios based on age, background checks for all employees, health and safety inspections, and staff training in CPR and first aid. To verify a provider's compliance, you can use the LDOE's online "Child Care Search" tool, which shows the facility's license status, any recent inspection reports, and compliance history. You can also call the LDOE's licensing office for the region. It's highly recommended to visit any potential daycare in person to see their license certificate posted.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with the cost of daycare in Edgard, and how do I qualify?
Yes, the primary program is the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), administered by the Louisiana Department of Education. CCAP provides financial assistance to eligible low-income families in Edgard to help pay for childcare so parents can work or attend school or training. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and the reason care is needed (employment, education, etc.). You can apply online through the Louisiana CAFÉ customer portal or contact the St. John the Baptist Parish Department of Health and Human Services for local application assistance. Due to funding, there is often a waitlist, so applying early is crucial.
Given Edgard's more rural setting, what types of childcare options are most commonly available, and are waitlists a significant issue?
In Edgard and the surrounding St. John the Baptist Parish area, options typically include smaller, home-based family daycares (Type II) and a limited number of center-based facilities. Some parents may also utilize registered or listed family, friend, and neighbor care. Due to the smaller number of licensed providers compared to urban areas, availability can be tight, especially for infants and toddlers. Waitlists are common for the most sought-after centers and home providers. It's advisable to begin your search at least 3-6 months before you need care. Expanding your search to nearby towns like LaPlace or Reserve might provide more options, though this adds commute time.
What is the average cost range for full-time infant and toddler daycare in Edgard, and what factors influence the price?
In Edgard and the broader River Parishes region, costs are generally moderate but can vary. For a full-time infant, you can expect to pay approximately $125 to $175 per week at a licensed family daycare home. Center-based care typically ranges from $150 to $225 per week for infants. Toddler care is often slightly less. Factors that influence price include the type of facility (center vs. home), the provider's credentials and curriculum, hours of operation, and whether meals are included. Prices may be lower than in major metro areas like New Orleans but are a significant household expense. Always ask for a detailed breakdown of fees, including registration, supplies, and any potential late pick-up charges.
How do daycare centers and homes in Edgard typically prepare for local weather emergencies, such as hurricanes or severe flooding?
This is a critical local concern. Licensed providers in Edgard are required by the state to have an approved Emergency Preparedness Plan. This plan must detail procedures for evacuation, shelter-in-place, communication with parents, and reunification. You should ask any provider specifically about their hurricane plan: their designated evacuation location (often a pre-arranged site further inland), how they transport children, their policy on early closure before a storm, and how they will notify you (e.g., text, phone tree, app). Many will follow the closure decisions of the St. John the Baptist Parish Public School District. It's essential you understand and are comfortable with their plan before enrolling your child.