The Best Daycare Centers in Crenshaw, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Crenshaw. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Crenshaw
Kiddie Kottage Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Kottage Learning Center is a highly-regarded early childhood education facility located approximately 15 miles from Crenshaw. They offer a comprehensive developmental curriculum that focuses on cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth. The center features state-certified teachers with specialized early childhood education training, low student-to-teacher ratios, and a secure facility with controlled access. Their program includes age-appropriate learning activities, outdoor play areas, and nutritious meal programs. What sets them apart is their emphasis on individualized learning plans and strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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First Baptist Church Child Development Center
First Baptist Church of Batesville
This faith-based childcare center provides a nurturing Christian environment with a strong educational foundation. Located about 12 miles from Crenshaw, they offer a balanced curriculum that incorporates academic readiness, spiritual development, and social skills. The center features experienced early childhood educators, secure facilities with surveillance systems, and age-appropriate learning environments. Their program includes structured learning activities, music and movement, outdoor recreation, and family engagement events. The center is particularly noted for its caring staff, clean facilities, and comprehensive safety protocols including strict pickup procedures.
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The Learning Tree Preschool & Childcare
Independent
The Learning Tree provides a play-based learning environment combined with structured educational activities to promote school readiness. Located approximately 15 miles from Crenshaw, this center emphasizes hands-on learning experiences and developmental appropriateness. They maintain small class sizes with qualified teachers who receive ongoing professional development. The facility includes modern classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and comprehensive safety measures. Their curriculum focuses on literacy development, math concepts, science exploration, and social-emotional learning. Parents consistently praise the center's engaging activities, dedicated staff, and excellent communication about their child's progress and daily experiences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Crenshaw, MS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Crenshaw, Mississippi, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Crenshaw and throughout Mississippi, all childcare facilities caring for more than six 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 (like fire and sanitation codes), and developmentally appropriate programming. To verify a facility's license status, you can use the "Find Child Care" search tool on the MSDH website or contact the MSDH Division of Child Care Licensure directly. It's crucial to confirm this, as unlicensed care may not offer the same protections or oversight. You can also ask the provider to show you their current license certificate during a tour.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Crenshaw, MS, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Crenshaw 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 are generally lower than state or national averages but reflect local economic conditions. For financial assistance, the primary program is the Mississippi Child Care Payment Program (CCPP), administered by the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS). Eligibility is based on income, work, or school attendance. Additionally, some local churches or community organizations in Panola County may offer limited scholarships or sliding-scale fees. It's best to contact MDHS and inquire directly with daycare centers about any available aid.
Are there many options for childcare in Crenshaw, or will I likely need to look in nearby towns like Sardis or Batesville?
As a small, unincorporated community, Crenshaw itself has very limited dedicated childcare facilities. Most parents in Crenshaw find they need to look for licensed daycare centers, church-based preschools, or registered family childcare homes in nearby larger towns. Sardis (to the east) and Batesville (to the west) in Panola County offer significantly more options, including several licensed centers and home-based providers. The commute for drop-off and pick-up is a common reality for Crenshaw families. When searching, use the MSDH website and filter by zip codes for Sardis (38666) and Batesville (38606) to find the closest regulated options to your home.
What should I look for specifically when touring a daycare center in a rural area like Crenshaw?
When touring daycares serving rural communities like Crenshaw, pay close attention to factors that address unique local needs. First, inquire about their transportation or bus policies if your child will need to be transported from Crenshaw to a center in another town. Second, ask about their emergency preparedness plans for severe weather common to Mississippi, such as tornadoes, and their protocol for communication during potential power outages. Third, observe the outdoor play area—it should be secure, well-maintained, and free of hazards common to rural settings. Finally, gauge the center's community involvement; a provider familiar with the close-knit nature of Panola County may offer a more supportive and personalized environment for your family.
How long are waitlists typically for quality daycare programs in the Crenshaw area, and when should I start looking?
For the most sought-after licensed centers in nearby Sardis or Batesville, waitlists can be several months long, especially for infant classrooms which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. It is not uncommon for a wait of 3 to 6 months, or even longer. For family childcare homes in the area, availability can be more sporadic but may also have shorter lists. Given this, it is highly recommended that you begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during your pregnancy or at least 4-6 months before you need care. Be proactive: call multiple providers, ask detailed questions about their list process (e.g., Is there a fee? How often do they update you?), and get on more than one list to increase your chances of securing a spot.