The Best Daycare Centers in New Albany, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in New Albany. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in New Albany
KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare Learning Center in Tupelo is a highly-rated childcare facility serving the New Albany area with a research-based curriculum that emphasizes early literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center features low student-teacher ratios, state-licensed educators with CPR and First Aid certifications, and secure facilities with keypad entry and regular safety drills. Their play-based learning approach includes STEM activities, outdoor play spaces, and nutritious meal programs. Parents praise the center for its strong communication, individualized learning plans, and inclusive environment that supports developmental milestones from infancy through school age.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Tupelo
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Tupelo offers a FLEX Learning Program that balances academic readiness with creative and critical thinking skills, serving families from New Albany. The school employs highly qualified teachers with early childhood education degrees and maintains small class sizes for personalized attention. Safety is prioritized with secured entrances, daily health checks, and a focus on cleanliness. The curriculum includes language arts, math, science, and art, supported by indoor and outdoor play areas. Parents highlight the school's strong parent-teacher communication, enrichment programs, and commitment to fostering a nurturing, diverse community.
Daycare Services:
First Baptist Church Child Development Center
First Baptist Church of New Albany
First Baptist Church Child Development Center in New Albany provides a faith-based, holistic early childhood education focused on cognitive, social, and spiritual development. The center uses a structured curriculum that incorporates play-based learning, literacy activities, and hands-on projects, with certified teachers trained in child development and safety protocols. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and a nutrition program that serves balanced meals. The center is known for its family-oriented atmosphere, regular progress updates, and strong community involvement, with parents appreciating the safe, caring environment and emphasis on character building.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in New Albany, MS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in New Albany, MS, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Mississippi, all childcare facilities, including those in New Albany, 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 a Family Child Care Home (up to 6 children), a registration is required, while a Child Care Center (7 or more children) needs a full license. You can verify a facility's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any violations by using the "Find Child Care" search tool on the MSDH website or by contacting the North Mississippi Public Health District office, which oversees Union County. Always ask to see the current license during a tour.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in New Albany, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In New Albany, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from $110 to $150 per week, while toddler care may be slightly lower, around $100 to $130 per week. These rates can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum, and age of the child. 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. Locally, you can apply through the Union County MDHS office. Additionally, some centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's important to inquire directly.
How long are typical waitlists for reputable daycare centers in New Albany, and when should I start looking for care?
Waitlists for the most sought-after daycare centers and licensed home providers in New Albany can vary from a few months to over a year, especially for infant slots, which are in highest demand due to lower staff-to-child ratios. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists as soon as you know you will need care, ideally during pregnancy or at least 6-12 months in advance of your desired start date. When contacting providers, ask specifically about their waitlist process, any fees to join, and how often they update families on their position.
What types of childcare options are most commonly available in New Albany, beyond traditional daycare centers?
New Albany offers a mix of childcare options to fit different family needs. These include licensed Child Care Centers (like New Albany Child Development Center or First Baptist Church Child Development Center), registered Family Child Care Homes (smaller, home-based settings), and faith-based preschool programs that may offer partial-day care. For school-age children, the New Albany School District may provide before and after-school programs. There are also occasional in-home nanny or babysitter networks, often found through local community Facebook groups or word-of-mouth, though these are typically unregulated.
Are there any quality indicators or local resources I should use when evaluating daycare options in New Albany?
Beyond checking the state license, look for providers that participate in Mississippi's Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS), called "Baby Steps." A higher star rating (1-5) indicates a commitment to exceeding minimum standards in areas like learning environment and professional development. You can search for rated programs on the MSDH website. Locally, visit potential centers during operating hours to observe cleanliness, child engagement, and staff interactions. Ask about staff turnover, curriculum, and emergency procedures. The Union County Development Association or the New Albany Main Street Association may also have community insights on reputable providers.