The Best Daycare Centers in Lumberton, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lumberton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lumberton
The Goddard School of Hattiesburg
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Hattiesburg is a highly-regarded early childhood education center serving the Lumberton area with a F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, and arts, delivered by qualified teachers with early childhood education backgrounds. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and provide daily communication to parents about their child's development and activities. The school is known for its structured yet nurturing environment that prepares children for kindergarten while fostering social-emotional growth.
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Kiddie Kottage Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Kottage Learning Center has served families in the Lamar County region for nearly two decades with a comprehensive early childhood program. Their curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through centers-based activities that develop cognitive, physical, and social skills. The center features secure facilities with monitored access, age-segregated classrooms, and structured outdoor play areas. Staff members hold early childhood credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The program includes nutritional meal services, regular developmental assessments, and strong parent communication through digital platforms. Their reputation for consistent, quality care makes them a popular choice for Lumberton-area families commuting to Hattiesburg.
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Lil' Angels Learning Academy
Independent
Lil' Angels Learning Academy provides quality childcare services to families in the greater Lamar County area with a focus on developmental appropriateness and individualized attention. Their program incorporates both structured learning activities and creative play, with curriculum elements that include early literacy, mathematics readiness, and social skills development. The facility maintains strict safety protocols including secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. Teachers are trained in early childhood development and maintain small group sizes to ensure personalized attention. The academy is particularly noted for its warm, family-like atmosphere and strong communication with parents about daily activities and developmental progress.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lumberton, MS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Lumberton, MS, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Lumberton, Mississippi, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH), except for those legally exempt (like small family care homes serving fewer than 6 children). Licensed centers must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training in CPR/First Aid), health and safety protocols, and facility conditions. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the "Find Child Care" search tool on the MSDH website or contact the MSDH Office of Health Protection directly. It's highly recommended to always choose a licensed provider to ensure state-mandated safety standards are met.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Lumberton, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Lumberton and the surrounding Lamar County area, the average cost for full-time, center-based infant care typically ranges from $120 to $160 per week. For toddlers, it may be slightly lower, around $110 to $140 per week. Home-based daycare is often more affordable. Financial assistance is available for qualifying families through the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) Child Care Payment Program (subsidy). Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's advisable to contact the MDHS county office or individual providers directly to discuss your specific situation and available aid.
Are there many daycare options with extended hours or weekend care in Lumberton for parents with non-traditional work schedules?
Finding daycare with extended hours (beyond 6:00 PM) or weekend care in Lumberton can be challenging, as most licensed centers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM schedule. Your best options are often licensed family childcare homes, which may offer more flexible hours by arrangement. Some providers in nearby Purvis or Hattiesburg might have extended hours, but this adds commute time. We recommend calling providers directly to inquire about their flexibility and any potential for accommodating shift work. Planning ahead and joining local community Facebook groups (like "Lumberton, MS Community") can also help you network and find recommendations for flexible care.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare center or home in Lumberton?
When touring a facility in Lumberton, go beyond the basics. First, observe the cleanliness and safety: check for secure fencing, covered electrical outlets, and safe play equipment. Notice how staff interact with children—are they engaged and responsive? Ask about their emergency plans for severe weather common to South Mississippi. Inquire about their daily schedule, nutrition (are meals provided?), and their policy on outdoor play. Importantly, ask about staff turnover; consistent caregivers are crucial for your child's development. Finally, trust your instincts about the overall atmosphere—is it a warm, welcoming, and organized environment where you would feel comfortable leaving your child?
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Lumberton, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the limited number of licensed facilities in a smaller community like Lumberton, waitlists can vary but are common, especially for infant rooms. It's not unusual for a popular center to have a waitlist of 3 to 6 months. We strongly recommend starting your search as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 4-6 months before you need care. When contacting providers, ask specifically about their current waitlist length and any deposit required to hold a spot. Being flexible on your start date can also help. Don't hesitate to get on multiple lists while you make your final decision.