The Best Daycare Centers in Enterprise, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Enterprise. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Enterprise
Enterprise Head Start Center
Community Action Partnership of Middle Mississippi
Enterprise Head Start Center provides comprehensive early childhood education and development services for low-income families in Clarke County. The center follows the nationally-recognized Head Start curriculum focused on school readiness, social-emotional development, and cognitive skills. All teachers meet or exceed state qualifications with ongoing professional development. The facility includes age-appropriate learning centers, outdoor play areas, and provides nutritious meals and snacks. What makes this center stand out is its holistic approach including health screenings, family support services, and parent involvement opportunities, all at no cost to eligible families.
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Quitman Head Start Center
Community Action Partnership of Middle Mississippi
Located just 15 minutes from Enterprise in Quitman, this Head Start center serves Clarke County families with high-quality early childhood education. The center implements the research-based Creative Curriculum that promotes development across all domains - cognitive, social-emotional, physical, and language. Certified teachers maintain low student-teacher ratios and receive ongoing training in early childhood best practices. The facility features modern classrooms, secure outdoor playgrounds, and comprehensive health and safety protocols. The center distinguishes itself through strong family engagement programs and comprehensive services including dental, medical, and mental health support.
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Little Lambs Learning Center
Independent
Little Lambs Learning Center in nearby Quitman serves Enterprise families with a Christian-based educational approach combined with state-approved early learning standards. The center offers age-appropriate curricula including Abeka for preschool and developmentally appropriate practices for younger children. Qualified teachers hold early childhood credentials and maintain low child-to-staff ratios. The facility includes secure infant rooms, interactive learning centers, fenced playgrounds, and modern safety systems. What sets this center apart is its faith-based environment, strong community reputation, and flexible scheduling options including full-time, part-time, and after-school care for working families in the Enterprise area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Enterprise, MS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Enterprise, MS, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Enterprise, Mississippi, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH), except for those legally exempt (like small in-home care for a limited number of children). Licensed providers must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, health and safety training, facility safety, and nutrition. To verify a daycare's license status, you can use the MSDH's "Find Child Care" online search tool or contact the MSDH's Child Care Licensure division directly. It's highly recommended to only consider licensed facilities, as this ensures a baseline of safety and oversight for your child.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Enterprise, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Enterprise and the surrounding Clarke County area, 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 vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and whether it is a center or a family childcare home. 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 Enterprise should contact the Clarke County MDHS office to apply. Some local churches or community organizations may also offer limited scholarships or sliding-scale fees.
Are there any daycare centers or preschools in Enterprise that offer specialized programs, such as early learning curricula or care for children with special needs?
While Enterprise is a smaller community, several local providers incorporate early learning frameworks. Some home-based daycares and centers may use play-based or structured learning activities to prepare children for kindergarten. For more formal preschool curricula, you might need to look at programs in nearby Quitman or Meridian. Regarding care for children with special needs, it's essential to discuss your child's specific requirements directly with providers. Some may be willing to accommodate with proper notice, but specialized resources are more concentrated in larger regional centers. Contacting the Mississippi Early Childhood Inclusion Center or your local Early Intervention program (First Steps) can provide guidance and support in finding inclusive care.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Enterprise, and when should I start looking for care before I need it?
Due to the limited number of licensed daycare options in a small town like Enterprise, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care slots. It's not unusual for popular providers to have a waitlist of several months. We strongly recommend starting your search at least 6 to 9 months before you need care, particularly if you have an infant. For expecting parents, beginning the process during the second trimester is a wise strategy. Be proactive: visit facilities, get on multiple waitlists (even if there's a small fee), and check in periodically to update your interest.
What should I look for during a tour of a potential daycare home or center in Enterprise, and are there any local resources to help me compare options?
During a tour, observe the cleanliness and safety of the environment (secured outlets, safe toys, fenced outdoor area), the interaction between staff and children (are they engaged and responsive?), and ask about daily routines, discipline policies, and emergency procedures. Inquire about staff qualifications and turnover. Specifically for Enterprise, ask about their plan for severe weather, given Mississippi's climate. For comparing options, use the MSDH online search tool to review licensing reports and any history of violations. Additionally, word-of-mouth is powerful in a close-knit community; ask for recommendations from other parents at local spots like the park or library, or on community Facebook pages for Enterprise/Clarke County.