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.
Childcare Insights for Myrtle
Finding the right day nursery for your little one is one of the most significant decisions a parent in Myrtle, Mississippi, will make. It’s about more than just a convenient location; it’s about finding a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where your child can thrive while you’re at work. The search for a "day nursery near me" in our close-knit community comes with its own unique considerations, blending the need for trusted, personal care with the practicalities of rural living.
When beginning your search in and around Myrtle, word-of-mouth recommendations are invaluable. Take time to talk to neighbors, friends at church, or other parents at the local park. Personal experiences can offer genuine insight into the daily routines, caregiver consistency, and overall atmosphere of a nursery that you might not find online. Given our area, many childcare providers may be smaller, home-based operations, which can offer a wonderful family-like setting. It’s always wise to verify that any provider, whether a center or a home nursery, is licensed by the Mississippi State Department of Health. This ensures they meet important health, safety, and staff training standards.
Considering logistics is crucial here in Union County. Think about your daily commute—whether you’re heading into New Albany, Corinth, or Holly Springs. A nursery that is on your route can make those morning and evening transitions much smoother. Ask detailed questions about hours of operation to ensure they align with your schedule, especially if you work non-traditional hours. Inquire about their policies for school closures or inclement weather, which can occasionally affect travel on our rural roads.
When you visit potential nurseries, look beyond the toys. Observe how the caregivers interact with the children. Are they engaged and responsive? Is the environment clean, organized, and secure? A quality nursery in Myrtle will often incorporate elements of our community into its learning, perhaps through simple activities about local nature or a welcoming, down-home feel. Don’t hesitate to ask about their educational philosophy, daily structure, and how they handle meals, naps, and discipline. Trust your instincts as a parent; you know what feels right for your child.
Finally, remember that this is a partnership. The best childcare arrangements feel like an extension of your own family. Once you choose a day nursery, maintain an open dialogue with the caregivers. Share your child’s little quirks and joys, and be receptive to their observations. Finding that perfect spot may take some time, but in a caring community like Myrtle, you are not just searching for a service—you are finding a supportive village to help your child grow. Your peace of mind, knowing your child is happy and well-cared for just a short drive away, is the ultimate goal.