The Best Daycare Centers in Forest, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Forest. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Forest
The Learning Tree Daycare & Preschool
The Learning Tree
The Learning Tree offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with a play-based curriculum that emphasizes social-emotional development and school readiness. Their experienced staff includes certified early childhood educators who implement age-appropriate learning activities in well-equipped classrooms. The facility features secure indoor and outdoor play areas, nutritious meal programs, and regular parent communication. They maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios and focus on creating a nurturing environment that supports each child's individual development through structured learning centers and hands-on activities.
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Little Blessings Child Development Center
Little Blessings
Little Blessings provides a faith-based educational environment with a balanced curriculum that combines academic preparation with character development. Their qualified teaching staff holds early childhood credentials and focuses on creating a safe, Christian atmosphere where children can thrive. The center features modern security systems, age-appropriate learning materials, and structured daily routines that include literacy development, math readiness, and creative expression. Parents appreciate the strong communication system and the center's commitment to individualized attention for each child's developmental needs.
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First Step Learning Center
First Step Learning Centers
Located in nearby Morton (approximately 15 minutes from Forest), First Step Learning Center serves families throughout Scott County with a research-based curriculum and specialized early intervention services. Their highly qualified staff includes early childhood specialists and therapists who provide comprehensive developmental support. The center features state-of-the-art learning environments, inclusive classrooms, and therapeutic play areas. They emphasize individualized learning plans, developmental milestone tracking, and strong parent partnerships. Their reputation for excellence in early childhood education and special needs support makes them a regional standout serving the Forest community.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Forest, MS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Forest, Mississippi, and how can I verify a facility is in good standing?
In Mississippi, all childcare facilities, including those in Forest, must be licensed by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH). This includes family childcare homes and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and background checks. To verify a facility's license and compliance history, you can use the MSDH's online "Child Care Facility Search" tool. You can search by county (Scott County) or city (Forest) to see inspection reports, any cited deficiencies, and the license status. It's highly recommended to review these reports and consider visiting any facility you're interested in to ask questions about their practices directly.
What is the typical cost range for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Forest, MS?
The cost of childcare in Forest is generally more affordable than in larger Mississippi cities like Jackson or the Gulf Coast, but it varies by provider type. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay approximately **$100 to $150 per week** for full-time care for an infant or toddler. In-home family daycare providers may sometimes offer lower rates, potentially ranging from **$80 to $120 per week**. These are estimates, and prices can differ based on the program's amenities, curriculum, and meal provisions. It's important to ask exactly what is included in the weekly fee (e.g., diapers, wipes, formula, meals). Financial assistance may be available through the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) Child Care Payment Program for eligible families.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Forest, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Given that Forest is a smaller community with a limited number of licensed facilities, popular daycare centers and highly-regarded in-home providers can indeed have waitlists, especially for infant care. It is strongly advised to begin your search **at least 3-6 months before you need care**. For infants, starting your search during pregnancy is not uncommon. When contacting providers, be sure to ask about their current waitlist policy, any deposit required to hold a spot, and the estimated timeline for an opening. Exploring multiple options, including both centers and licensed family homes, will increase your chances of securing a spot in a timely manner.
What types of childcare programs are most commonly available in Forest, beyond standard daycare centers?
Parents in Forest have a few primary options. First, there are traditional licensed **childcare centers**, which may offer structured preschool curricula for older toddlers. Second, **licensed family childcare homes** operate in a residential setting, often providing a smaller, home-like environment. For school-age children, the **Forest Municipal School District** may offer before- and after-school programs at elementary schools. Additionally, some local churches run **mother's day out programs** or part-time preschools, which can be a hybrid option. Due to the rural nature of Scott County, options like large corporate chains or 24-hour care are very limited or non-existent in Forest itself.
What local resources or organizations in Forest can help me find and evaluate childcare options?
A key local resource is the **Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency** that serves Scott County, which is typically operated by the Mississippi State University Extension Service. They maintain a database of licensed providers and can offer referrals. You can also contact the **Scott County Economic Development Partnership** or the **Forest Chamber of Commerce** for lists of local businesses, which may include childcare centers. For hands-on evaluation, nothing replaces visiting facilities, but talking to other parents at local parks, the Forest Public Library, or community events like the Scott County Fair can provide invaluable word-of-mouth recommendations about provider reputations and quality.