The Best Daycare Centers in Raceland, LA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Raceland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Raceland
KinderCare Learning Center at Houma
KinderCare Education
KinderCare at Houma provides a comprehensive early childhood education program serving families in Raceland and the broader Bayou Region. The center employs a research-based curriculum focused on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development, with age-appropriate activities for each stage. All lead teachers hold early childhood education credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. The facility features secure entry systems, daily health checks, and sanitized classrooms with dedicated learning centers. Parents praise the center's strong communication through the KinderCare app, which includes photo updates and developmental progress reports. The outdoor play areas are designed for safe physical development, and nutritious meals are provided daily. Its national accreditation and high staff retention rates contribute to its reputation for quality care.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Thibodaux
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Thibodaux offers a premier early childhood education program that serves Raceland families with its F.L.EX.® Learning Program, emphasizing play-based learning and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) activities. The school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios, with all educators meeting state licensing requirements and many holding advanced degrees in early childhood education. Safety is prioritized through keypad entry, background-checked staff, and regular safety drills. The facility includes bright, modern classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and enrichment programs like yoga and music. Parents highlight the school's strong focus on individualized learning plans and daily communication via electronic reports. The school's consistent high ratings stem from its balanced approach to academic readiness and social development.
Daycare Services:
Little Angels Learning Center
Independent
Little Angels Learning Center is a locally owned and operated facility known for its nurturing environment and strong community ties, serving Raceland and Thibodaux areas. The center uses a blended curriculum that incorporates Creative Curriculum elements with hands-on learning activities to promote cognitive, physical, and emotional growth. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified, with ongoing training in child development best practices. The center features secure facilities with monitored access, clean and organized classrooms, and outdoor play spaces designed for safe exploration. Parents appreciate the personalized attention, regular parent-teacher conferences, and flexible scheduling options. The center's long-standing operation and commitment to inclusive care make it a trusted choice for families seeking a home-like atmosphere with educational rigor.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Raceland, LA
What are the typical costs for daycare in Raceland, LA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Raceland, daycare costs vary based on the child's age and the type of facility. For infants, you can expect to pay between $125 to $175 per week at a licensed daycare center, while toddler care typically ranges from $110 to $150 per week. Home-based family childcare providers may offer slightly lower rates. These costs are generally lower than in larger Louisiana cities like New Orleans or Baton Rouge. For financial assistance, Louisiana's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is the primary resource for eligible families. You can apply through the Louisiana Department of Education. Additionally, local organizations like the Bayou Community Foundation or Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux may offer occasional support or guidance. It's recommended to contact providers directly, as some may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees based on income.
How do I verify that a daycare or preschool in Raceland is properly licensed and what are the key state regulations I should know?
All licensed childcare providers in Raceland must be registered with the Louisiana Department of Education, which oversees the licensing process. You can verify a provider's license status, inspection reports, and any compliance history through the Louisiana Child Care Search online portal. Key state regulations include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:5 for infants, 1:8 for 2-year-olds), background checks for all employees, and annual health and safety inspections. In Terrebonne and Lafourche Parishes, providers must also adhere to local health department guidelines. When touring a facility, don't hesitate to ask for their current license and their most recent inspection report. Licensed providers in Raceland are also required to have age-appropriate curricula and emergency preparedness plans, which are especially important given Louisiana's hurricane season.
What is the availability and typical waitlist situation for daycare centers in Raceland, especially for infants?
Availability for daycare, particularly for infants (under 12 months), can be limited in Raceland due to smaller facility sizes and stricter staff-to-child ratios. It's common for the more established centers, such as those affiliated with local churches or community organizations, to have waitlists ranging from 2 to 6 months. We recommend starting your search during pregnancy or at least 3-4 months before you need care. Some smaller, licensed family childcare homes may have more immediate openings. To improve your chances, consider contacting multiple providers and getting on multiple waitlists. Be sure to ask about their waitlist policy—some require a non-refundable deposit to hold a spot. Checking with providers in nearby communities like Thibodaux or Lockport could also expand your options.
Are there any daycare or preschool programs in Raceland that offer specialized care, such as for children with special needs or extended hours for shift workers?
While specialized resources are more concentrated in larger nearby cities like Houma or Thibodaux, some Raceland providers can accommodate certain needs. For children with special needs, it's essential to inquire directly about a center's experience, staff training, and physical accessibility. Some providers may work with EarlySteps, Louisiana's early intervention system. For extended hours, several family childcare homes and some centers offer care beyond the standard 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM window to accommodate parents working in local industries like healthcare, offshore services, or shift work at nearby plants. Be sure to ask about early drop-off, late pick-up policies, and any associated fees. Providers familiar with the local economy are often more flexible with non-traditional schedules.
What should I look for during a daycare tour in Raceland, and are there any local community resources for finding and evaluating options?
During a tour in Raceland, look for clean, safe environments with secure outdoor play areas. Observe how staff interact with children—engagement should be warm and attentive. Ask about their daily schedule, discipline policy, and how they handle emergencies, including hurricanes or severe weather common to the area. Check for proper safety features like secured gates, outlet covers, and posted evacuation plans. For local resources, start with the Louisiana Child Care Search tool. The Cajun Early Childhood Network, which serves Terrebonne, Lafourche, and other parishes, can provide referrals and information. Additionally, local Facebook groups (e.g., "Raceland, LA Community Board") often have parent recommendations and discussions about local daycare experiences. Don't underestimate word-of-mouth; asking other parents at local parks or community events can yield valuable, trusted insights.