The Best Daycare Centers in Myrtle, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Myrtle. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Myrtle
ABC Academy of New Albany
ABC Academy
ABC Academy provides comprehensive early childhood education with a research-based curriculum that focuses on developmental milestones. The center features secure access systems, CCTV monitoring, and strict safety protocols. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and maintain low student-teacher ratios. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers for literacy, math, and creative arts. Parents praise the consistent communication and individualized attention given to each child's development.
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First Baptist Church Daycare & Preschool
First Baptist Church of New Albany
Operating as a ministry of First Baptist Church, this daycare combines Christian values with quality early childhood education. The program emphasizes social-emotional development alongside academic readiness through structured play and learning activities. The facility maintains excellent staff retention with many teachers having 10+ years of experience. Safety features include secure check-in systems, fenced playgrounds, and comprehensive background checks. The center is known for its nurturing environment and strong community connections.
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Primrose School of Tupelo
Primrose Schools
As part of the nationally recognized Primrose Schools franchise, this center offers the exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum that blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems, dedicated age-based learning environments, and outdoor exploration areas. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields. The program emphasizes character development, literacy, and STEM foundations. While located in Tupelo, many families from surrounding areas including Myrtle commute for the high-quality programming and consistent educational standards.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Myrtle, MS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Myrtle, Mississippi, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Mississippi, all childcare facilities, including those in Myrtle, must be licensed by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH). Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and staff background checks. For family childcare homes serving 6-12 children, a license is also required. You can verify a facility's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any compliance history by using the "Find Child Care" search tool on the official MSDH website. It's highly recommended to choose a licensed provider to ensure a baseline of safety and quality for your child.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in the Myrtle area, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Myrtle and the surrounding rural areas of Union County, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $110 to $150 per week, while toddler care may be slightly less, around $95 to $130 per week. These costs are generally lower than in Mississippi's urban centers but can vary based on the facility's amenities and curriculum. 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 requirements. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's important to inquire directly.
Given Myrtle's rural location, how can I find and evaluate the available daycare options, and are waitlists common?
Due to the limited number of dedicated facilities in a small town like Myrtle, finding options often requires looking at both licensed centers and registered family childcare homes in Myrtle and nearby communities like New Albany. Start by using the MSDH online search and asking for recommendations from local parents, your pediatrician, or community Facebook groups (e.g., "Union County, MS Community"). When evaluating, schedule a visit to observe cleanliness, caregiver interaction, and safety. Waitlists for infants are common, especially at the more sought-after providers, so it's advisable to begin your search several months before you need care. Flexibility with hours or considering a home-based provider can improve your chances of securing a spot.
What types of childcare programs are most commonly available in Myrtle, MS, such as centers, home-based care, or faith-based programs?
Myrtle primarily offers family childcare homes and smaller, privately-run daycare centers. Given the community's size, there are fewer large corporate chains. Faith-based programs affiliated with local churches are also a common and popular option, often providing care with a religious curriculum. Another key resource is the Head Start and Early Head Start programs, which serve income-eligible families in Union County with comprehensive early childhood education, health, and nutrition services. These are typically located in nearby New Albany. For school-age children, the Myrtle Attendance Center may offer before or after-school care programs.
What should I look for regarding safety and preparedness specific to our area, such as storm safety or transportation?
Given Mississippi's weather, inquire specifically about a provider's emergency plans for severe storms and tornadoes. A quality facility should have a designated safe room or shelter, regular drills, and a clear communication plan for parents. Also, ask about their policies for pickup and drop-off, especially if they provide transportation for school-age children. In a rural area, ensure any vehicles used are properly insured and equipped with car seats. Finally, check that the facility is secure, with controlled access to prevent unauthorized entry, and that all staff are trained in CPR and First Aid—requirements that are verified during the state licensing process.