The Best Daycare Centers in Becker, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Becker. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Becker
The Goddard School of Tupelo
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Tupelo offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their highly qualified teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and maintain low student-to-teacher ratios. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and modern classrooms with advanced learning materials. Their comprehensive curriculum includes STEAM learning, language development, and social-emotional skills. The center is known for its strong communication with parents through daily reports and regular updates, along with nutritious meal programs and extensive safety protocols.
Daycare Services:
Primrose School of Tupelo
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Tupelo provides Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. Their research-based curriculum focuses on character development, literacy, math, and science skills. The facility features secure environments with keypad entry, indoor and outdoor learning spaces, and dedicated art and music rooms. All teachers receive ongoing professional development and maintain CPR/first aid certification. The school emphasizes partnership with families through regular communication, parent-teacher conferences, and family events. Their exclusive Harmony & Heart® program incorporates music, and they offer balanced nutrition with healthy meals and snacks included.
Daycare Services:
First United Methodist Church Weekday Ministries
First United Methodist Church of Tupelo
First United Methodist Church Weekday Ministries has served the Tupelo area for over two decades with a faith-based educational program that emphasizes whole-child development. Their experienced teaching staff maintains low child-to-teacher ratios and focuses on creating a nurturing, safe environment. The curriculum integrates Christian values with age-appropriate academic preparation, including literacy, math readiness, and social skills development. The facility includes secure classrooms, dedicated playgrounds for different age groups, and a well-established safety protocol system. Parents appreciate the strong sense of community, experienced long-term staff members, and comprehensive developmental tracking that ensures each child's progress is monitored and supported.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Becker, MS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Becker, Mississippi, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Becker, Mississippi, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH), which sets standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, and child-to-staff ratios. For example, for toddlers, the ratio is 1 staff member to 6 children. You can verify a facility's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any compliance history by using the "Find Child Care" search tool on the MSDH website or by contacting the MSDH Division of Child Care Licensure directly. This is a crucial first step to ensure any provider you consider in Becker meets state-mandated safety standards.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Becker, MS, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Becker and the surrounding rural areas of Mississippi, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $100 to $150 per week, while toddler care may be slightly less, around $90 to $130 per week. These costs can be lower than in larger Mississippi cities but vary based on the facility's amenities and program type. For financial assistance, Mississippi offers the Child Care Payment Program (CCPP) through the Department of Human Services (MDHS). Eligibility is based on income, work, or school attendance. Parents in Becker should contact the MDHS county office serving Kemper County to apply. Some local churches or community centers may also offer subsidized or sliding-scale care options.
Are there many licensed in-home daycare options versus larger childcare centers in Becker, and what are the pros and cons of each in our community?
In a smaller community like Becker, licensed Family Child Care Homes (FCCHs) are often more prevalent than large childcare centers. These in-home providers offer a smaller, home-like setting with mixed-age groups, which can be more flexible and personalized. Centers, which you may need to look for in nearby larger towns like De Kalb or Scooba, offer more structured educational programs and multiple staff. The primary advantage of a Becker-based FCCH is convenience and potentially a closer community feel, but it's essential to verify their MSDH license and have a backup plan, as in-home providers have fewer staff and may close for personal reasons.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in Becker, and when should I start looking for care before I need it?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small town like Becker, waitlists can be unpredictable but are common, especially for infant care spots. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search at least 3 to 6 months before their needed start date. For infants, starting inquiries during pregnancy is wise. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current waitlist length and if they charge a fee to be placed on it. Don't hesitate to get on multiple lists, and also explore options in neighboring communities such as Preston or Shuqualak to increase your chances of securing a spot.
What should I look for during a daycare tour specific to facilities in our rural area, like Becker?
When touring a daycare in Becker, pay close attention to factors that can be specific to rural settings. First, ask about their emergency preparedness plan for severe weather common to Mississippi and their protocol for power outages. Inquire about outdoor play areas—are they secure, shaded, and free of rural hazards? Check the cleanliness and condition of the building, as some facilities may be in older homes. Ask about their policy on field trips, given the local environment. Finally, observe how staff interact with the children to gauge the warmth and attentiveness of the care in a close-knit community setting. Always confirm they have a valid MSDH license displayed.