The Best Daycare Centers in Drew, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Drew. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Drew
Cleveland Early Learning Center
Independent
Cleveland Early Learning Center is a highly-regarded facility located approximately 15 minutes from Drew, serving the broader Delta region. They implement a comprehensive early childhood curriculum that emphasizes literacy development, STEM exploration, and social-emotional learning. The center features certified early childhood educators with specialized training in age-appropriate developmental practices. Facilities include secure, age-separated classrooms, monitored outdoor play areas with modern equipment, and a dedicated infant care wing with separate sleeping and feeding areas. The center stands out for its low student-to-teacher ratios, regular developmental assessments, and strong parent communication system including daily activity reports and parent portal access.
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Kiddie Kingdom Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Kingdom Learning Center serves families throughout the Mississippi Delta region, including Drew residents. The center employs a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation for preschool-aged children. Their curriculum includes phonics-based reading readiness, early math concepts, and hands-on science activities. All lead teachers hold Child Development Associate credentials or higher, and the center maintains rigorous safety protocols including secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The facility features bright, well-organized classrooms, age-appropriate learning centers, and a large, shaded outdoor playground. Parent satisfaction is particularly high for their flexible scheduling options and nutritious meal program that meets USDA guidelines.
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Ruleville Early Learning Academy
Independent
Located approximately 10 miles from Drew, Ruleville Early Learning Academy has built a strong reputation for quality childcare in the Delta region. The academy focuses on whole-child development through a balanced curriculum that integrates cognitive, physical, and social-emotional growth. Their educational approach includes Montessori-inspired practical life activities, structured circle time, and individualized learning plans. The facility features secure, camera-monitored classrooms, a dedicated nap room with individual cribs for infants, and developmentally appropriate learning materials throughout. Staff members receive ongoing professional development in early childhood best practices, and the center maintains excellent compliance records with state licensing requirements. Families appreciate the consistent communication and family engagement events throughout the year.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Drew, MS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Drew, MS, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Drew, Mississippi, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH). This includes family childcare homes serving 6-12 children and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and staff background checks. To verify a facility's license, you can use the MSDH's online "Child Care Facility Search" tool or contact the MSDH's Health Facilities Licensure and Certification division directly. It's highly recommended to only consider licensed providers in Drew, as this is your primary assurance of regulated care standards.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Drew, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Drew and the surrounding Sunflower County area, average costs for full-time daycare are generally lower than state and national averages, but can vary. For an infant, you might expect to pay between $100-$150 per week, while toddler care may range from $90-$130 per week. These are estimates, and prices depend on the facility's amenities and age of the child. 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. You can apply through the Sunflower County MDHS office in Indianola. Some local churches or community organizations may also offer limited assistance or sliding scale fees.
Are there many daycare centers with openings in Drew, or should I expect to be on a waitlist?
Due to Drew's smaller population, the number of licensed daycare centers is limited compared to larger cities. It is common for the most sought-after facilities to have waitlists, especially for infant care, which has stricter staff-to-child ratios. It is advisable to begin your search and make inquiries at least 3-6 months before you need care. Don't limit your search to Drew city limits; consider licensed providers in nearby communities like Ruleville or Indianola, which may have more options. Being flexible and applying to multiple places increases your chances of securing a spot without a long wait.
What are some key questions to ask when touring a daycare in Drew, given the local rural context?
Beyond standard questions about curriculum and safety, consider these locally relevant points: 1) **Emergency Protocols:** Ask about their plan for severe weather common to the Mississippi Delta and their protocol for power outages. 2) **Transportation & Field Trips:** If offered, inquire about vehicle safety and driver credentials for trips to locations like the library in Cleveland or parks in nearby towns. 3) **Staff Retention:** In smaller communities, low turnover can indicate a stable, quality environment. Ask about average tenure of caregivers. 4) **Local Partnerships:** Do they collaborate with local resources like the Drew Public Library for story time or the Sunflower County Extension Service for activities? 5) **Communication:** How do they keep parents informed, especially considering some areas may have inconsistent cell service?
What types of childcare settings are most common in Drew—centers, home-based daycares, or faith-based programs?
In a community like Drew, home-based family childcare is a very common and often integral option, as it can offer a home-like environment and flexible hours that suit agricultural or shift-work schedules common in the region. There are also a limited number of childcare centers. Faith-based programs operated by local churches are another significant option, often providing preschool programs for ages 3-5. The Mississippi State Department of Health licenses all these types if they care for a certain number of children. When searching, be sure to explore all three categories to find the best fit for your family's needs and schedule.