The Best Daycare Centers in Harvey, LA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Harvey. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Harvey
Primrose School of Marrero
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Marrero offers a nationally accredited Balanced Learning® curriculum that combines teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. Their approach focuses on whole-child development through character development, literacy, math, science, and social studies. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences, serving families throughout Jefferson Parish including Harvey residents.
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Kiddie Academy of Harvey
Kiddie Academy
Kiddie Academy of Harvey provides Life Essentials® curriculum that promotes social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development through project-based learning. The center features secure keypad entry, comprehensive safety protocols, and modern classrooms with developmentally appropriate learning materials. Their program includes character education, technology integration, and nutritious meals. Staff members hold CPR/first aid certification and participate in continuous training. The academy serves children from 6 weeks to 12 years old with flexible scheduling options for Harvey families.
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The Learning Experience - Gretna
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Gretna offers a comprehensive early education program with proprietary L.E.A.P.® curriculum that incorporates phonics, foreign language, manners, and physical fitness. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, bright colorful classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Their programs include enrichment activities like soccer, yoga, and dance. The facility maintains low student-teacher ratios and employs degreed early childhood educators. Located just minutes from Harvey, they provide convenient care options for West Bank families with extended hours and full-day programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Harvey, LA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare centers in Harvey, LA, and how can I verify a provider is in good standing?
In Harvey, Louisiana, all childcare centers and family daycare homes serving seven or more children must be licensed by the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE), Division of Licensing. Key requirements include background checks for all staff, specific staff-to-child ratios based on age, health and safety training (including CPR/First Aid), and regular facility inspections. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the LDOE's online "Child Care Search" tool. This public database shows the provider's license status, any recent inspection reports, and any corrective action plans. It's a crucial first step for parents in Harvey to ensure a facility meets state-mandated safety and quality standards.
What is the average cost of full-time infant daycare in Harvey, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Harvey and the greater Jefferson Parish area, the average cost for full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $135 to $185 per week. Prices can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum, and teacher qualifications. For financial assistance, Louisiana's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is the primary resource for eligible families. Eligibility is based on income, work or school attendance, and family size. You can apply through the Jefferson Parish Department of Children & Family Services office. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Harvey, and when should I start looking?
For popular, highly-rated daycare centers in Harvey, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant rooms. It's not uncommon for waitlists to be 6 to 12 months long. Given this, it is highly recommended that expecting parents begin their search and get on waitlists during the second trimester of pregnancy. When contacting centers, ask specific questions: their current waitlist length, if there's a fee to be on the list, how often they update parents on their position, and if they give priority to siblings of current students. Exploring both centers and licensed family childcare homes can broaden your options and potentially reduce wait times.
What should I look for in a daycare to ensure it's prepared for Louisiana's specific weather emergencies, like hurricanes?
Given Harvey's location in Southeast Louisiana, hurricane preparedness is a non-negotiable aspect of childcare. When touring facilities, ask directly about their emergency plan. A reputable center should have a written disaster plan that includes evacuation routes, designated safe rooms, backup power/generators for essential systems, and a clear communication protocol for parents. Ask where they evacuate to if mandatory, how they store emergency supplies (water, food, medication), and how they practice drills with the children. Centers that are part of larger chains or located in sturdy buildings may have more robust plans. This line of questioning is critical for peace of mind during the June-November hurricane season.
Are there daycare options in Harvey that offer extended hours for parents with non-traditional work schedules?
Yes, there are options, though they may require some searching. While many standard daycare centers in Harvey operate from around 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM, some facilities, particularly larger chains or those located near major employers and hospitals, offer extended hours that may go until midnight or offer 24-hour care. Additionally, licensed family childcare homes can sometimes offer more flexible hours by arrangement. Your best resource is the LDOE Child Care Search tool, where you can filter for "Extended Hours" as a service option. Be sure to confirm the exact hours, additional costs for late pick-up, and their policy for overnight care if needed. Networking with other local parents on community social media groups can also yield recommendations for flexible providers.