The Best Daycare Centers in Moss Point, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Moss Point. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Moss Point
The Learning Tree Academy
The Learning Tree Academy
The Learning Tree Academy is a highly-regarded childcare center serving the Moss Point area with a comprehensive educational approach. They offer a structured curriculum that includes literacy development, mathematics, science exploration, and social-emotional learning. The facility features secure classrooms with age-appropriate learning centers, outdoor playgrounds with safety surfaces, and certified teachers with early childhood education credentials. Their infant program maintains low teacher-to-child ratios with individualized care plans, while their preschool program prepares children for kindergarten through hands-on learning activities. The center emphasizes parent communication through daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences, and maintains strict security protocols including controlled access entry systems.
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Kiddie Academy of Ocean Springs
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Ocean Springs is part of a nationally recognized educational childcare chain that serves families throughout Jackson County, including Moss Point residents. Their Life Essentials curriculum focuses on character development, STEM education, and school readiness skills. The facility features modern classrooms with interactive technology, secure outdoor play areas, and dedicated spaces for different age groups. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the center maintains enhanced safety protocols including comprehensive background checks, security cameras, and strict health and hygiene practices. They offer nutritious meals prepared on-site and provide real-time updates to parents through their mobile communication app.
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First Baptist Church Child Development Center
First Baptist Church of Pascagoula
First Baptist Church Child Development Center provides quality Christian-based early childhood education to families in Moss Point and surrounding communities. Their program balances academic preparation with character development, incorporating age-appropriate Bible stories and values into daily activities. The center features well-equipped classrooms, a large secured playground, and a dedicated music and movement room. Their experienced teaching staff includes certified early childhood educators who participate in ongoing professional development. The curriculum emphasizes literacy development, mathematical thinking, and social skills through play-based learning and structured activities. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and has a strong reputation for nurturing care and kindergarten readiness preparation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Moss Point, MS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare centers in Moss Point, MS, and how can I verify a provider's status?
In Moss Point, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH). This includes family childcare homes, group homes, and childcare centers. The MSDH sets standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training in CPR/First Aid), health and safety inspections, and facility requirements. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the "Find Child Care" search tool on the MSDH website or contact the Jackson County Health Department directly. It's crucial to confirm a center is in good standing, as this ensures they meet the minimum state standards for your child's safety and development.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Moss Point?
The cost of childcare in Moss Point is generally more affordable than in larger Mississippi cities like Jackson or Gulfport, but it varies by type of care. For a licensed childcare center, full-time infant care typically ranges from $120 to $160 per week. For toddlers, the cost is often slightly lower, around $110 to $140 per week. In-home family daycare providers may charge $90 to $130 weekly. It's important to note that these are averages, and prices can vary based on a center's amenities, curriculum, and staff credentials. Parents should also inquire about what is included in the weekly fee (meals, snacks, supplies) and if there are any registration or annual fees.
Are there any state or local assistance programs to help with daycare costs for families in Moss Point?
Yes, eligible families in Moss Point can apply for the Mississippi Child Care Payment Program (CCPP), which is administered by the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS). This subsidy helps low-income working families, those in job training, or parents attending school pay for licensed or registered childcare. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. You can apply through the MDHS office in Pascagoula, which serves Jackson County. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's recommended to apply for CCPP as early as possible, as funding can be limited.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Moss Point, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists for the most sought-after licensed centers in Moss Point can vary from a few months to over a year, especially for infant classrooms which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. It is highly advisable to begin your search and get on multiple waitlists during pregnancy or several months before you need care. When contacting centers, ask specific questions about their list: how many families are ahead of you, how often it's updated, and if a deposit is required to hold a spot. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in surrounding neighborhoods, as they may have more immediate availability and offer a smaller, home-like setting.
What should I look for during a tour of a daycare facility in Moss Point, specifically regarding hurricane preparedness and outdoor play?
Given Moss Point's coastal location, hurricane preparedness is a critical safety factor. During a tour, ask about their emergency evacuation and shelter-in-place plans. They should have a clear protocol for communication with parents, a supply kit, and know their evacuation zone. For outdoor play, inspect the security of the playground fencing and the condition and cleanliness of the equipment. Due to the heat and humidity, ensure there is adequate shaded areas and that water play or outdoor time is scheduled during cooler parts of the day. Also, ask how they handle extreme weather days, including excessive heat, thunderstorms, or air quality alerts from nearby industrial areas, to ensure your child's safety is prioritized.