The Best Daycare Centers in Paris, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Paris. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Paris
The Goddard School of Oxford
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Oxford is a premier early childhood education center serving the Paris, MS area with a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic preparation with social development. Their play-based curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and physical development with highly qualified teachers who hold degrees in early childhood education. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds. They maintain low student-to-teacher ratios and provide daily communication to parents about their child's progress and activities.
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Oxford University School - Early Childhood Center
University of Mississippi
As part of the University of Mississippi's School of Education, this center provides exceptional early childhood education with research-based curriculum and highly qualified staff. The program emphasizes developmentally appropriate practices, social-emotional learning, and school readiness skills. Teachers include certified early childhood educators and graduate students supervised by experienced faculty. The facility features modern classrooms, observation areas for parent viewing, and extensive learning materials. Their comprehensive approach includes individualized learning plans and regular developmental assessments.
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New Albany Children's Center
Independent
New Albany Children's Center serves families in the Paris area with a well-established reputation for quality childcare and early education. Their curriculum focuses on hands-on learning experiences that promote cognitive, social, and physical development. The center maintains state-licensed standards with certified early childhood educators and low child-to-staff ratios. Safety features include secure entry systems, monitored playgrounds, and comprehensive emergency protocols. They offer nutritious meal programs and maintain open communication with parents through daily reports and regular conferences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Paris, MS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Paris, MS, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Paris, Mississippi, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) unless they are legally exempt (such as certain religiously affiliated centers or small in-home care situations). Licensed centers must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training in CPR/First Aid), health and safety protocols, and facility conditions. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the MSDH's "Find Child Care" online search tool or contact the MSDH Division of Child Care Licensure directly. It's highly recommended to only consider licensed providers 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 Paris, MS?
The cost of daycare in Paris, MS, is generally lower than the national average but can vary based on the child's age and the type of facility. For a licensed childcare center, parents can expect to pay approximately $100 to $150 per week for full-time care for an infant or toddler. In-home family daycare may be slightly less expensive. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, diapers, and educational curriculum. For financial assistance, eligible families in Lafayette County (where Paris is located) can apply for the Mississippi Child Care Payment Program (CCPP) through the Mississippi Department of Human Services.
Are there any licensed childcare centers in Paris itself, or will I need to look in nearby towns like Oxford?
Paris is a very small, unincorporated community, so licensed childcare center options within its immediate boundaries are extremely limited. Most parents in Paris look to nearby Oxford, just a 15-20 minute drive away, which offers a wide variety of licensed centers, church-affiliated preschools, and in-home providers. Some in-home family daycare providers may operate in the Paris area, and checking local community boards, Facebook groups (like "Paris, MS Community"), or asking for referrals from neighbors is the best way to find them. Be prepared for potential waitlists, especially for infant care, in the broader Lafayette County area.
What are the typical operating hours for daycare centers serving families in the Paris, MS area?
Most licensed childcare centers in the region, particularly those in Oxford that serve Paris residents, operate on a fairly standard schedule to accommodate working parents. Typical hours are from 6:30 AM or 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM or 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Some centers may offer extended hours for an additional fee. Given the rural nature of the area and commuting patterns, it's crucial to confirm these hours and their policy on late pick-ups. In-home providers may have more flexible or more restricted hours, so this is a key question to ask during your initial visit or interview.
What should I look for during a tour of a potential daycare, and are there local resources to help me compare options?
When touring a daycare, either in Paris or nearby Oxford, look for: a clean and safe environment with secured exits, engaged and attentive staff, a structured daily schedule that includes play and learning, and happy, busy children. Ask about their discipline policy, sick-child policy, and staff turnover rates. For local comparisons, utilize the MSDH online search tool and read any available inspection reports. Additionally, tap into local networks by asking for recommendations from your pediatrician (many use clinics in Oxford) and other parents at community hubs like the Paris Baptist Church or the Lafayette County & Oxford Public Library. Personal referrals are invaluable in a close-knit community like this.
Childcare Insights for Paris
Finding the right childcare is one of the most important decisions a family makes, and if you're searching for "daycare centers near me" in Paris, Mississippi, you're likely looking for a safe, nurturing, and convenient place for your little one. While Paris is a smaller, close-knit community, understanding your local options and what to consider can make this search feel much more manageable. The good news is that in towns like ours, childcare often comes with a personal touch, where caregivers are neighbors and your child is more than just a name on a roster.
Start your search by tapping into the local networks that make Paris special. Beyond a simple online search, consider asking for recommendations at the First Baptist Church, the Paris Post Office, or while shopping at local businesses like Paris Grocery. Personal referrals from other parents in the community are invaluable, as they can speak to the daily environment, caregiver consistency, and the overall philosophy of a local home daycare or center. In a smaller community, these firsthand accounts are your best resource for finding a place that aligns with your family's values.
When evaluating daycare options in Paris, consider the practicalities of our rural setting. Ask about their policies for inclement weather, as travel on county roads can be a factor. Inquire about their outdoor play areas—does the facility have a secure, shaded space for children to enjoy the fresh air? Given that larger chain centers might be located in neighboring towns like Oxford or New Albany, if you find a local in-home provider, ensure they are properly licensed by the Mississippi State Department of Health. This licensing is a crucial benchmark for health, safety, and staff-to-child ratio standards, giving you essential peace of mind.
Don't hesitate to schedule a visit with any potential daycare. This is your opportunity to observe the children's happiness and engagement, the cleanliness of the facility, and how the caregivers interact. Notice if the environment feels warm and stimulating, with age-appropriate books and toys. Ask about their daily routine, including meal and nap times, and whether they incorporate any early learning activities. For Paris parents, a key question might be about flexibility, as local work schedules can vary from farming to jobs in nearby industrial or educational centers.
Finally, trust your instincts as a parent. The right daycare in Paris, MS, should feel like an extension of your family—a place where you are comfortable and your child is excited to go. It’s worth taking the time to find a setting where your child can thrive and where you can build a trusting relationship with the caregiver. By leveraging local connections, asking detailed questions, and prioritizing a loving atmosphere, you can find a wonderful childcare solution right here in our own community, providing a strong foundation for your child's early years.