The Best Daycare Centers in Harrisonburg, LA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Harrisonburg. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Harrisonburg
KinderCare Learning Center at Jonesville
KinderCare Education
As part of the nationally recognized KinderCare network, this center provides comprehensive early childhood education with a research-based curriculum that focuses on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. Features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials, secure entry systems, and age-appropriate learning environments. Offers nutritious meals and snacks, regular parent communication through mobile app updates, and structured learning activities that prepare children for kindergarten success. Serves families throughout Catahoula Parish including Harrisonburg residents.
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Little Blessings Childcare & Learning Center
Little Blessings Childcare
A faith-based childcare center serving the Concordia Parish area with comprehensive early learning programs. Features a balanced curriculum incorporating academic preparation, character development, and Christian values. Maintains low student-teacher ratios with certified early childhood educators. The facility includes secure classrooms, modern playground equipment, and dedicated learning centers for different age groups. Emphasizes safety with coded entry systems, regular safety drills, and thorough background checks for all staff. Provides transportation services for school-age children and serves many families from surrounding rural communities including Harrisonburg.
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Ferriday Head Start Center
Community Action Agency of Central Louisiana
Federally funded early childhood program providing comprehensive services to income-eligible families in the Tri-State area. Offers evidence-based curriculum focused on school readiness, social skills, and cognitive development. Features highly qualified teachers with bachelor's degrees in early childhood education, comprehensive health and nutrition services, and family engagement programs. Maintains excellent safety standards with regular facility inspections and staff training. Provides transportation services and serves children from birth to age 5, with many families commuting from Harrisonburg and surrounding rural areas for the high-quality early education programming.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Harrisonburg, LA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Harrisonburg, Louisiana, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Louisiana, all childcare facilities serving seven or more children must be licensed by the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE). This includes family childcare homes and centers. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and staff qualifications. To verify a facility's license in Harrisonburg, you can use the LDOE's online "Child Care Search" tool. You can search by provider name, city, or parish (Catahoula Parish). It's crucial to check this, as it provides a record of any past violations or complaints. You can also contact the LDOE's Licensing Division directly for the most current information.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Harrisonburg, LA?
Childcare costs in rural areas like Harrisonburg and Catahoula Parish are generally lower than in larger Louisiana cities, but options are more limited. For a licensed daycare center or home, you can expect to pay an average of **$400 to $550 per month** for full-time care for an infant or toddler. Some in-home providers may charge slightly less. It's important to note that due to limited supply, many providers have waitlists, so planning ahead is essential. Louisiana also offers financial assistance through the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Are there any state-funded pre-K or Early Head Start programs available for young children in Harrisonburg?
Yes, there are important publicly funded early childhood programs. The Louisiana Department of Education funds the **LA 4** program, which is a high-quality pre-kindergarten for four-year-olds. In Harrisonburg, this is typically administered through the local public school, Catahoula Parish School Board. Additionally, **Early Head Start** (for infants/toddlers) and **Head Start** (for 3-5 year-olds) programs may be available through community action agencies serving the parish, such as the Concordia Community Action Agency. These programs are income-based and provide comprehensive early education, health, and family support services. Enrollment is limited, so contacting the school board or local agency early is key.
What should I look for when touring a daycare home or center in a small community like Harrisonburg?
Beyond checking the state license, touring in a small town allows you to assess community-specific factors. First, observe cleanliness and safety: Are outlets covered? Is the outdoor play area secure? Ask about their emergency plans for severe weather common to Louisiana. Inquire about the staff's longevity and training; low turnover is a good sign of a stable environment. Given the rural setting, ask about their policy on school closures (e.g., for bus routes) and if they provide transportation. Finally, trust your instincts on the caregiver's warmth and engagement with the children, and don't hesitate to ask for references from other local parents.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in Harrisonburg, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the limited number of licensed providers in Harrisonburg and Catahoula Parish, waitlists can be significant, often ranging from **3 to 9 months**, especially for infant care. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Contact all licensed providers in the area, even those in nearby towns like Jonesville or Sicily Island. Get on multiple waitlists and ask for clear information on their process (e.g., Do they require a deposit?). Stay in touch with providers every few months to confirm your interest. Also, explore alternatives like registered family childcare homes, which may have shorter lists, and inquire about any new providers planning to open.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Harrisonburg: