The Best Daycare Centers in Randolph, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Randolph. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Randolph
Primrose School of Tupelo
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Tupelo offers a nationally accredited Balanced Learning® curriculum that blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The school features age-appropriate learning environments, secure entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their curriculum focuses on character development, literacy, math, and science skills through hands-on activities. Teachers maintain low student-to-teacher ratios and participate in ongoing professional development. The facility includes dedicated playgrounds for different age groups and provides nutritious meals. Parents praise the school's communication and their children's developmental progress.
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Kiddie Academy of Tupelo
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Tupelo provides comprehensive educational childcare with their Life Essentials® curriculum that emphasizes character development, STEM learning, and school readiness. The center features secure access control, regular safety drills, and maintained teacher-to-child ratios. Certified teachers create individualized learning plans and maintain detailed progress reports. The facility includes interactive whiteboards, dedicated learning centers, and age-appropriate outdoor play areas. The academy offers enrichment programs in music, Spanish, and physical education. Parents consistently note the caring staff and excellent preparation for kindergarten.
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Tupelo Children's Academy
Independent
Tupelo Children's Academy offers a Montessori-inspired approach combined with traditional early childhood education principles. The center focuses on individualized learning plans, hands-on exploration, and social-emotional development. Their qualified teachers hold early childhood credentials and maintain small class sizes for personalized attention. The facility features secure entry systems, monitored classrooms, and well-maintained indoor and outdoor learning environments. The curriculum includes literacy development, mathematical thinking, creative arts, and physical education. Parents appreciate the warm, family-like atmosphere and the center's commitment to each child's unique developmental journey.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Randolph, MS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Randolph, Mississippi, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Mississippi, all childcare facilities caring for six or more unrelated children must be licensed by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH). This includes family childcare homes and centers. Licensed facilities in Randolph must meet specific standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training in CPR/First Aid), health and safety protocols, and facility safety. To verify a provider's license, you can use the "Find Child Care" search tool on the MSDH website or contact the MSDH Child Care Licensure office 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 Randolph, MS?
Childcare costs in Randolph and the surrounding rural areas of Mississippi are generally lower than the national average, but they still represent a significant portion of a family's budget. For full-time care (5 days a week), you can expect to pay an average of **$400 to $600 per month** for an infant or toddler at a licensed center. In-home family daycare may be slightly less expensive. Costs can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and staff qualifications. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate (e.g., meals, diapers, formula). For financial assistance, Mississippi offers the Child Care Payment Program (CCPP) for eligible families; you can apply through the Mississippi Department of Human Services.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Randolph, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of dedicated daycare centers in a small community like Randolph, availability can be tight, especially for infants. It is not uncommon for popular or highly-regarded local providers to have waitlists of several months. We strongly recommend that parents begin their search **at least 6 to 9 months before their needed start date**, particularly if you require care for a child under two years old. When contacting providers, be sure to ask about their current enrollment status, waitlist policy (including any fees to hold a spot), and estimated timeline for an opening. Exploring options in nearby towns like Pontotoc or New Albany may also be necessary.
What types of childcare options are most commonly available in Randolph, MS?
Given its rural setting, Randolph primarily offers two types of licensed childcare options. The most common are **licensed family childcare homes**, which are operated in a provider's residence and typically care for a smaller group of children, offering a home-like environment. There may also be a small **childcare center** or a church-affiliated preschool program that offers full-day care. For school-age children, after-school care is often provided through the local school district or community programs. Due to limited options, many families in the area also rely on informal arrangements with trusted neighbors or relatives. Always prioritize licensed care for its regulated health and safety standards.
What local resources or organizations in Randolph can help me find and evaluate childcare?
A key local resource is the **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency** that serves your region, which is typically the Family Resource Center of North Mississippi. They offer free referrals to licensed providers in and around Randolph, provide information on quality indicators, and can guide you through the process of applying for state subsidy programs. Additionally, you can contact the **Randolph City Hall** or the **Chamber of Commerce** for a list of local businesses, which may include daycare providers. Don't underestimate the value of local parent networks on social media or community bulletin boards at churches and the public library for personal recommendations and insights into provider reputations.