The Best Daycare Centers in Madison, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Madison. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Madison
The Learning Tree Academy
The Learning Tree Academy
The Learning Tree Academy offers a comprehensive educational program with a focus on early childhood development through play-based learning and structured curriculum. Their facility features state-of-the-art security systems, including keypad entry and surveillance cameras. The center employs degreed early childhood educators who implement Creative Curriculum with STEAM integration. They provide nutritious meals through their USDA-approved food program and maintain low teacher-to-child ratios. The outdoor playground is designed for age-appropriate physical development, and classrooms are equipped with modern learning materials. Parent communication includes daily reports and a dedicated app for real-time updates.
Daycare Services:
Primrose School of Madison
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Madison follows the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach, blending purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The curriculum emphasizes character development, literacy, and STEM concepts through hands-on activities. The facility includes secure entry systems, dedicated age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, engaging classrooms. All teachers receive ongoing professional development and maintain CPR/first aid certification. The school offers enrichment programs including music, Spanish, and physical education. Parent involvement is encouraged through regular events and detailed progress reports, with the school maintaining strong relationships with local elementary schools for smooth transitions.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Madison
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Madison implements the F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development through play-based learning. The school features secure entry systems, sanitization protocols, and safety-trained staff. Classrooms are designed with learning centers that encourage exploration and independence. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and participate in continuous training. The curriculum includes literacy development, mathematics, science exploration, and creative arts. The school maintains an open-door policy for parents and provides regular communication through their proprietary mobile app, including photos and daily activity summaries.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Madison, MS
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Madison, MS, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Madison, MS, the average cost for full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $150 to $220 per week, depending on the center's amenities, curriculum, and staff-to-child ratios. For toddlers, costs are slightly lower, averaging $130 to $190 per week. These rates are generally higher than the Mississippi state average, reflecting Madison's higher cost of living and demand for quality care. For financial assistance, parents can apply for the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) Child Care Payment Program (CCPP), which provides subsidies to eligible families based on income and need. Additionally, some local centers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees. It's advisable to contact centers directly and inquire with MDHS about current eligibility requirements and application processes.
How long are typical waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Madison, and what can I do to secure a spot in advance?
Waitlists for highly-regarded daycare centers in Madison can be significant, especially for infant rooms. It's not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. To improve your chances, start your search and get on lists as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy. When contacting centers, ask specific questions: the current number on the list, estimated timeline, whether a deposit is required to hold a spot (which is common), and how often they update families. Consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in Madison neighborhoods, which may have shorter wait times. Being flexible on your start date can also help.
What are the key state licensing requirements I should verify when touring a daycare facility in Madison?
All licensed childcare facilities in Madison must comply with Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) regulations. Key requirements to verify include: **Staff-to-Child Ratios** (e.g., 1:5 for infants under 1 year, 1:6 for toddlers 1-2 years), **Background Checks** for all staff, and **Health and Safety Standards** like safe sleep practices for infants, immunization records, and emergency plans. Centers must also have staff trained in CPR and First Aid. You can ask to see the center's current license, which should be posted visibly. For an extra layer of assurance, you can check a facility's licensing history and any past violations on the MSDH website's Child Care Facility Search page.
Are there many daycare options in Madison that offer extended hours for parents with non-traditional work schedules?
While most traditional daycare centers in Madison operate on a standard schedule (e.g., 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM), options for extended or non-traditional hours are more limited. Some larger centers may offer occasional early drop-off or late pick-up for an additional fee. Your best bet for consistent extended coverage is to seek out licensed family childcare providers, who may offer more flexible hours to accommodate shift workers. Additionally, exploring nanny shares with other Madison families or hiring a part-time babysitter for gap coverage might be necessary solutions. It's crucial to discuss your specific schedule needs upfront during tours and interviews.
What types of preschool or early learning curricula are commonly offered by daycare centers in Madison, and how do they prepare children for local kindergarten programs?
Many daycare centers in Madison offer structured preschool programs for children ages 3-5, often following curricula like **Creative Curriculum**, **HighScope**, or **Montessori-inspired** methods. These focus on developmental milestones through play-based learning, literacy, math readiness, and social skills. Given Madison's high-performing public school district (Madison County School District and Madison City Schools), local daycares often align their pre-K programs with district kindergarten expectations. Look for centers that emphasize phonics, number recognition, and self-help skills. Some centers may even use assessment tools to track progress. Asking how they specifically prepare children for the transition to local elementary schools, like Madison Station Elementary or Madison Crossing Elementary, is a great question during your visit.