The Best Daycare Centers in Benton, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Benton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Benton
Little Blessings Childcare & Learning Center
Independent
Little Blessings is a highly-regarded Christian-based childcare center serving the Benton area with a comprehensive educational program. They employ certified early childhood educators who implement the Creative Curriculum, focusing on developmental milestones through hands-on learning. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and modern classrooms equipped with interactive learning stations. Their program includes daily structured activities in literacy, math, science, and social skills development, along with nutritious meal programs. Parent communication is prioritized through daily reports and a dedicated parent portal. The center maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios and all teachers receive ongoing professional development in early childhood education best practices.
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Kiddie Academy of Flowood
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Flowood is part of a nationally recognized educational childcare chain that serves families in the Benton/Jackson metro area. Their Life Essentials® curriculum emphasizes character development, literacy, and STEM education through project-based learning. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems including secured entry, surveillance cameras, and strict check-in/check-out procedures. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the center maintains low student-teacher ratios. The program includes technology-integrated learning, outdoor exploration areas, and enrichment activities in music and movement. Parents receive regular progress updates through the Academy Link® communication system and benefit from flexible scheduling options.
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The Learning Tree Preschool & Childcare
Independent
The Learning Tree has built a strong reputation in the central Mississippi region with their play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum that balances academic preparation with social-emotional learning. Their Montessori-inspired approach encourages independence and critical thinking through carefully designed learning centers. The facility includes separate nurseries for infants, toddler classrooms with gross motor development areas, and preschool rooms with literacy-rich environments. Safety protocols include background-checked staff, emergency preparedness training, and comprehensive health and sanitation procedures. The center offers extended hours to accommodate working families and provides healthy, balanced meals prepared in their on-site kitchen. Their experienced teaching staff averages 8+ years of tenure, ensuring consistent, quality care.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Benton, MS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Benton, Mississippi, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Benton, Mississippi, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) unless they are legally exempt (such as certain religiously affiliated centers or small in-home care with fewer than 6 children). Licensed providers must meet specific standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, health and safety training, facility safety, and nutrition. To verify the license and inspection history of any daycare in Benton, you can use the "Find Child Care" search tool on the MSDH website or contact the local Public Health District office. It's highly recommended to only consider licensed providers to ensure a baseline of safety and quality for your child.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Benton, MS?
The cost of daycare in Benton and the surrounding Yazoo County area is generally more affordable than in larger Mississippi cities like Jackson or the Gulf Coast. For full-time care, parents can expect to pay an average of **$100 to $150 per week** for an infant or toddler at a licensed daycare center. In-home family childcare may sometimes be slightly less. It's important to note that costs can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and staff qualifications. Some centers may offer sliding scale fees, and Mississippi's Department of Human Services (MDHS) provides childcare subsidy assistance for eligible families through the Child Care Payment Program (CCPP).
Are there any daycare centers in Benton that offer preschool or pre-K educational programs, and how do they differ from basic childcare?
Yes, several licensed daycare centers in and around Benton integrate structured preschool or pre-K curricula into their programs for children ages 3-5. These programs focus on school readiness skills like early literacy, basic math concepts, social development, and fine motor skills, going beyond basic supervision and care. Facilities may use curricula like Creative Curriculum or follow Mississippi's Early Learning Standards. A key difference is that lead teachers in these classrooms often have specific early childhood education credentials. It's best to contact centers directly to ask about their curriculum, daily schedule, and teacher qualifications. Some may also partner with the state's Early Learning Collaborative for enhanced pre-K.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in Benton, and what can I do to secure a spot for my infant?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Benton, waitlists for infant care, in particular, can be significant. It's not uncommon for popular, well-regarded centers to have waitlists of **3 to 6 months or longer**. To secure a spot, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Contact multiple providers to get on their lists, even if you're considering them as a backup. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee. Also, explore licensed family childcare homes in the area, as they may have more immediate openings and offer a smaller setting. Flexibility on your start date can also improve your chances.
What local resources or organizations in Yazoo County can help me find and evaluate childcare options in Benton?
The primary local resource for finding and evaluating childcare is the **Yazoo County Human Resource Agency (YCHRA)**. They often have information on local providers and can guide parents through the process of applying for state subsidy programs. Additionally, the **Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH)** provides online search tools and licensing records. For hands-on support, you can contact the **Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) network** serving the region, which is typically operated by a community action agency. They can provide referrals, quality information, and tips on what to look for during a daycare visit specific to our rural community context.