The Best Daycare Centers in Raymond, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Raymond. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Raymond
The Learning Tree Academy
The Learning Tree Academy
The Learning Tree Academy is a highly-regarded childcare center located just 10 minutes from Raymond in Clinton. They offer a comprehensive educational program with a structured curriculum that includes literacy development, math readiness, and social-emotional learning. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Their teaching staff includes certified early childhood educators with specialized training in developmental milestones. The center emphasizes parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences, and provides nutritious meals through their in-house food program. Their long-standing reputation in the community and commitment to educational excellence make them a top choice for Raymond families.
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Creative Learning Center
Creative Learning Center
Creative Learning Center serves the Raymond area from their Clinton location with a play-based learning approach that balances structured activities with child-directed exploration. The center features low student-teacher ratios and employs qualified early childhood professionals with ongoing training in child development. Their curriculum includes STEM activities, literacy programs, and creative arts, with age-appropriate learning centers in each classroom. Safety protocols include secure check-in systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. The center maintains strong parent partnerships through regular communication and family events, and has earned recognition for their quality programming and nurturing environment.
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First Baptist Church Weekday Early Education
First Baptist Church Clinton
First Baptist Church Weekday Early Education has served families in the Raymond-Clinton area for over two decades with a Christ-centered educational program. Their experienced teaching staff includes certified educators who provide developmentally appropriate curriculum focusing on academic readiness, social skills, and spiritual foundation. The facility offers modern classrooms, secure playgrounds, and dedicated learning spaces. Their program emphasizes character development alongside academic preparation, with small class sizes ensuring individual attention. The center maintains excellent safety standards with controlled access and comprehensive staff training. Their longstanding community presence and commitment to holistic child development make them a trusted choice for preschool education.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Raymond, MS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Raymond, MS, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Raymond and throughout Mississippi, childcare facilities are licensed and regulated by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH). Licensed providers 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 conditions. To verify a daycare's license status in Raymond, you can use the MSDH's online "Child Care Facility Search" tool on their website. This allows you to search by county (Hinds County) and city to see the facility's current license, any inspection reports, and compliance history. It's a crucial first step to ensure you're considering a legally operating and monitored program.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Raymond, MS?
The cost of childcare in Raymond is generally more affordable than in larger Mississippi metros like Jackson, but it varies by provider type. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay an average of $120 to $160 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. In-home family childcare providers may offer slightly lower rates, typically ranging from $90 to $130 per week. These are estimates, and prices can differ based on the program's curriculum, hours, and included amenities (like meals). It's important to ask about any additional fees for registration, supplies, or late pick-ups when budgeting.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with daycare costs for families in Raymond?
Yes, eligible families in Raymond can apply for assistance through the Mississippi Child Care Payment Program (MCCPP), administered by the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS). This subsidy helps low-income working families, those in job training, or parents pursuing education afford licensed childcare. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. You can apply through the Hinds County MDHS office. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly about financial options when you tour a facility.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Raymond, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists in Raymond can vary significantly. Popular centers, especially those affiliated with local employers or institutions near the Raymond/Hinds County area, may have waitlists of several months, particularly for infant rooms which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. Smaller in-home providers may have shorter or no waitlists. To improve your chances, start your search early—ideally during pregnancy or 3-6 months before your needed start date. Contact multiple providers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $25-$50). Follow up politely every few months to express continued interest.
What are some key factors to consider when choosing between a home-based daycare and a center-based program in Raymond?
This is a common consideration for Raymond parents. **Home-based daycares** (licensed family childcare homes) often offer a smaller, family-like setting with mixed-age groups, potentially more flexible hours, and may be located in residential neighborhoods. They can be ideal for parents seeking a consistent, homey environment. **Center-based programs** typically have a more structured curriculum, multiple staff members for backup, and often larger facilities with dedicated outdoor play spaces. In Raymond, centers might also have more formal connections to early learning standards. When deciding, visit both types, check their MSDH licenses and inspection reports, and consider which environment best matches your child's temperament and your family's schedule and values. Ask about their policies on sick children, meals, and daily communication.