The Best Daycare Centers in Calhoun City, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Calhoun City. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Calhoun City
Bruce Academy & Daycare
Independent
Bruce Academy & Daycare is a highly-regarded early childhood education center serving Calhoun County with a comprehensive developmental curriculum. The center features state-licensed teachers with early childhood education degrees and maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Their educational approach combines play-based learning with structured academic preparation, including literacy development, STEM activities, and social-emotional learning. The facility includes secure indoor classrooms, age-appropriate outdoor playgrounds, and modern safety systems including coded entry and comprehensive monitoring. Parents consistently praise the center's nurturing environment, experienced staff, and strong communication about child development milestones.
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Kiddie Kingdom Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Kingdom Learning Center is a locally-owned childcare facility in Calhoun City offering a balanced curriculum that emphasizes both academic readiness and social development. The center employs certified early childhood educators who implement Creative Curriculum with supplemental Montessori-inspired activities. Their program includes daily structured learning periods, creative arts, music enrichment, and physical development activities. Safety features include secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and regular safety drills. The center is particularly noted for its family-like atmosphere, nutritious meal program, and strong focus on individualized attention for each child's developmental needs.
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Vardaman Early Learning Center
Independent
Vardaman Early Learning Center serves families throughout Calhoun County with a research-based educational program focused on whole-child development. The center features degreed early childhood educators who implement HighScope curriculum principles, emphasizing active participatory learning and key developmental indicators. Their facility includes dedicated infant rooms, toddler learning centers, preschool classrooms with literacy-rich environments, and secure outdoor play areas. The center maintains excellent staff retention rates and offers extended hours to accommodate working families. Parents consistently report high satisfaction with the center's communication, developmental progress tracking, and the caring, professional staff who create a warm, engaging learning environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Calhoun City, MS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Calhoun City, MS, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Calhoun City and throughout Mississippi, all childcare facilities caring for 5 or more unrelated children must be licensed by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH). Licensed providers must meet specific standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, health and safety training, facility safety, and nutrition. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the "Find Child Care" search tool on the MSDH website or contact the North Mississippi Public Health District office, which oversees Calhoun County. It's highly recommended to only consider licensed facilities, as this ensures a baseline of safety and oversight. You can also ask the provider directly to see their current license certificate.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Calhoun City, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Calhoun City and the surrounding rural areas, full-time daycare for an infant can average between $100 to $140 per week, while toddler care may range from $90 to $120 per week. These costs are generally lower than in Mississippi's urban centers but can vary based on the facility's amenities, hours, and whether it is a home-based or center-based program. For financial assistance, eligible families can apply for the Mississippi Child Care Payment Program (CCPP), a subsidy administered by the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS). You can apply through the Calhoun County MDHS office in Pittsboro. Additionally, some local churches or community organizations may offer limited scholarships or sliding-scale fees.
Are there many options for drop-in or part-time childcare in Calhoun City, or is full-time enrollment typically required?
Due to Calhoun City's smaller, rural nature, most licensed childcare providers primarily offer full-time weekly contracts to ensure stable enrollment and staffing. Drop-in or casual part-time care is very limited and not commonly advertised. Your best options for flexible care are to inquire directly with licensed family childcare homes, as some may accommodate part-time schedules based on availability. For occasional needs, you might explore informal networks with other parents or check if any providers in nearby towns like Bruce or Vardaman offer more flexible arrangements. It's crucial to plan ahead, as securing any childcare spot, especially a part-time one, can require being placed on a waitlist.
What should I look for when touring a daycare center or home in Calhoun City, given the specific needs of a rural community?
When touring a facility in Calhoun City, beyond standard checks for cleanliness and safety, consider factors unique to the area. Ask about their plan for severe weather, given Mississippi's storm season—where is the safe room, and what is the communication protocol? Inquire about transportation or field trips, as rural settings might involve longer bus rides. Check the outdoor play area for safety and fencing, considering the potential for nearby agricultural or wooded areas. Ask about their policy on children who are mildly ill, as the distance to a pediatrician in Pittsboro or Calhoun City Medical Clinic may affect pickup expectations. Finally, gauge the provider's community ties and longevity, as locally established providers often have strong support networks.
How long are waitlists for quality daycare in Calhoun City, and what can I do to secure a spot for my child?
For the most sought-after licensed providers in Calhoun City, waitlists can be several months long, especially for infant care. It's advisable to begin your search and get on lists as early as possible, even during pregnancy. To improve your chances, be proactive: contact multiple providers, including both centers and licensed family homes in Calhoun City and neighboring communities. When you get on a list, ask for an estimated timeline and if they require a deposit. Stay in touch every few months to confirm your interest. Also, network through local churches, the Calhoun City School District, or community Facebook groups, as word-of-mouth about openings is common in a close-knit town like ours.