The Best Daycare Centers in Preston, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Preston. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Preston
KinderCare Learning Center at Meridian
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare at Meridian is a highly-rated center serving families from Preston and the surrounding region with a comprehensive early childhood education program. Their play-based learning approach emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social skills development through structured activities and free play. The center employs qualified teachers with CPR and first aid certifications, maintaining low teacher-to-child ratios for personalized attention. Safety is a top priority, featuring secure entry systems, regular safety drills, and monitored facilities. The center includes age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play areas, and provides nutritious meals and snacks. Parents consistently praise the engaging curriculum, strong communication, and the center's ability to foster developmental milestones in a nurturing environment.
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Primrose School of Meridian
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Meridian offers a balanced learning approach through their exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum, which blends teacher-directed and child-initiated activities to promote academic and character development. The curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM education, and social-emotional skills, with enrichment programs in music, art, and physical activity. Certified teachers lead small classes in a safe, modern facility equipped with security systems and outdoor learning spaces. The center is known for its high parent satisfaction, with reviews highlighting excellent communication, individualized attention, and a positive impact on children's growth. It serves the Preston area with flexible scheduling and a commitment to inclusivity.
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ABC Child Development Center
Independent
ABC Child Development Center in Philadelphia is a well-regarded, family-owned facility that serves Preston and nearby communities with a warm, community-focused approach. Their theme-based curriculum incorporates hands-on learning, creative play, and early literacy activities to support cognitive and social development. Staff members hold early childhood education credentials and participate in ongoing training to ensure high-quality care. The center features clean, safe environments with monitored access, outdoor playgrounds, and age-appropriate learning materials. Parents value the center's flexibility, individualized attention, and strong sense of community, making it a trusted option for families seeking reliable childcare in the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Preston, MS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Preston, Mississippi, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Mississippi, all childcare facilities, including those in Preston, 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 childcare home (caring for up to 6 children), a registration is required. You can verify a facility's license status by using the "Find Child Care" search tool on the MSDH website or by contacting the North Central Public Health District office, which serves the Preston area. Always ask to see the current license during your visit.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Preston, MS?
Childcare costs in Preston and the surrounding rural areas of Mississippi are generally lower than the national average, but options are more limited. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay approximately $100 to $150 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. In-home family daycare may be slightly less, around $80 to $120 per week. Costs can vary based on the provider's amenities, curriculum, and meal provisions. It's important to note that subsidy assistance may be available through the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) for eligible families.
Are there any state-funded pre-K or Early Head Start programs available for children in Preston?
Yes, there are state-funded early childhood education options. The Mississippi Early Learning Collaborative (ELC) provides public pre-K for 4-year-olds. While Preston itself may not host a site, eligible children in the county can often attend programs in neighboring towns within the school district. Additionally, Early Head Start (for infants/toddlers) and Head Start (for 3-5 year-olds) are available through community action agencies serving Kemper County, such as the East Mississippi Business Development Corporation. These programs are income-based and provide comprehensive early education, health, and family services. Contact the Kemper County School District or MDHS for referral information.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Preston, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the limited number of licensed childcare facilities in a small town like Preston, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care. It's not unusual for a waitlist to be 3 to 6 months long. To improve your chances, we recommend contacting providers as early as possible during pregnancy. Get on multiple lists, even for providers in nearby towns like De Kalb or Scooba. Be proactive—follow up with a call every 4-6 weeks to express continued interest. Also, consider licensed family childcare homes, which may have more immediate openings and offer a smaller setting.
What local resources or organizations in Preston can help me find and evaluate childcare options?
Your primary local resource is the **Mississippi Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) Network**, operated by the Mississippi State University Extension Service. They serve all counties, including Kemper, and offer free referrals to licensed providers, information on quality indicators, and details about financial assistance. You can contact them via their statewide hotline or website. Additionally, the **Kemper County Health Department** can provide licensing information, and local community centers or churches may have information about home-based providers or mother's day out programs. Networking with other parents at these locations is often one of the best ways to find trusted local childcare.