The Best Daycare Centers in Gunnison, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Gunnison. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Gunnison
Kiddie Kollege Child Development Center
Independent
Kiddie Kollege is a highly-regarded childcare center located approximately 15 miles from Gunnison in Cleveland. They offer a comprehensive educational program with a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation. The center features state-licensed teachers with early childhood education credentials, low student-to-teacher ratios, and a secure facility with monitored access. Their curriculum includes literacy development, STEM activities, creative arts, and social-emotional learning. The center provides nutritious meals and snacks, has both indoor and outdoor play areas designed for different age groups, and maintains excellent communication with parents through daily reports and regular conferences.
Daycare Services:
First United Methodist Church Daycare
First United Methodist Church of Cleveland
This church-affiliated daycare center in Cleveland serves families throughout the Delta region including Gunnison. They provide a nurturing Christian environment with a balanced curriculum that includes academic readiness, faith-based values, and developmental activities. The facility features experienced caregivers with CPR and first aid certification, age-appropriate learning centers, and a secure environment with keypad entry systems. Their program emphasizes social skills development, early literacy, and kindergarten preparation. The center offers flexible scheduling options and maintains small class sizes to ensure individualized attention for each child.
Daycare Services:
Coahoma County Opportunities, Inc. Head Start
Coahoma County Opportunities, Inc.
Located in Clarksdale approximately 25 miles from Gunnison, this Head Start program serves eligible families throughout the Delta region with comprehensive early childhood education services. The center employs degreed early childhood educators and follows the research-based Creative Curriculum. Services include health screenings, nutritional meals, family engagement programs, and special needs support. The facility maintains high safety standards with regular inspections and trained staff. Their holistic approach focuses on school readiness while supporting family well-being through parent education and community resources. Transportation services are available for eligible families in the service area.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Gunnison, MS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Gunnison, MS, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Gunnison, Mississippi, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH). This includes family childcare homes, group homes, and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and facility safety. To verify a provider's license, you can use the MSDH's online "Child Care Facility Search" tool or contact the MSDH's Child Care Licensure division directly. It's crucial to check this, as operating without a license is illegal and may indicate the facility does not meet state safety standards. 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 Gunnison, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Gunnison and the surrounding Delta region, full-time daycare costs are generally more affordable than in larger Mississippi cities, but prices vary. For an infant, you can expect to pay approximately $100 to $150 per week. For toddlers, it may range from $90 to $130 per week. These are estimates, and rates depend on the facility's amenities, hours, and whether meals are provided. 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. Additionally, local Head Start programs in nearby counties may serve eligible families, and some churches or community organizations in the area might offer sliding-scale fees or limited scholarships.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Gunnison, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the smaller number of licensed childcare options in Gunnison, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care. It is not unusual for popular or highly-rated centers to have waitlists of 3 to 6 months, or even longer. We strongly recommend that parents begin their search and make contact with potential providers as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 4-6 months before your needed start date. Be prepared to put your name on multiple lists and check in periodically. For more immediate needs, exploring licensed family childcare homes in the community may offer more flexibility and shorter wait times.
What are the primary types of childcare available in Gunnison, and what are the key differences between them?
Gunnison primarily offers two types of licensed childcare: Child Care Centers and Family Child Care Homes. **Centers** are facilities dedicated solely to childcare, often with multiple staff, structured classrooms, and set operating hours (e.g., 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM). They may follow a specific curriculum. **Family Child Care Homes** are operated out of a provider's residence, typically caring for a smaller, mixed-age group of children in a home-like setting. They often offer more flexible hours and can provide a more personalized, family-oriented environment. Your choice depends on your child's needs, your schedule, and the type of setting you prefer. Due to Gunnison's size, family homes may be a more prevalent option than large centers.
Are there any resources in Gunnison or Bolivar County to help me evaluate and choose a quality daycare?
Yes, there are several key resources. First, the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) provides a referral service through its Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency. You can call them for a list of licensed providers in the Gunnison/Bolivar County area. Second, always schedule an in-person tour and use a checklist. Ask about staff qualifications, turnover, daily routines, discipline policies, and emergency plans. Third, you can check for any past licensing violations on the MSDH website. Finally, word-of-mouth is incredibly valuable in a close-knit community like Gunnison. Ask other parents at local churches, community events, or through social media groups for their personal experiences and recommendations.