The Best Daycare Centers in Sandhill, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Sandhill. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Sandhill
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Columbus serves the Sandhill area with a nationally recognized F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic readiness, social development, and creative expression. Their play-based curriculum is developed by early childhood education experts and implemented by qualified teachers with degrees in early childhood education. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and provide daily communication to parents about their child's development and activities.
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Creative Learning Center
Independent
Creative Learning Center has served the Columbus/Sandhill area since 2006 with a comprehensive early childhood program that balances academic preparation with social-emotional development. Their curriculum includes literacy development, STEM activities, and creative arts, all delivered by experienced early childhood educators. The center maintains state-mandated teacher-child ratios and employs staff with CPR and First Aid certification. Facilities include secure classrooms, age-appropriate learning centers, and safe outdoor play spaces. They emphasize individualized attention and regular progress updates for parents.
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KinderCare Learning Center at Leigh Drive
KinderCare Education
This KinderCare location serves the Sandhill community with a research-based curriculum that addresses all areas of child development. Their programs include early literacy, math and science exploration, and social skills development. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, and age-appropriate playgrounds. Teachers receive ongoing professional development and many hold early childhood education credentials. KinderCare's approach includes regular assessments and family conferences to track developmental milestones and ensure school readiness.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Sandhill, MS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Sandhill, Mississippi, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Mississippi, all childcare facilities, including those in Sandhill, 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 for free through the MSDH's online Child Care Facility Search tool. It's crucial to check this, as unlicensed care may not offer the same protections. You can also contact the MSDH's Child Care Licensure office directly for the Central District, which covers Rankin County, for any specific concerns or to request inspection reports.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Sandhill, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Sandhill and broader Rankin County area, average costs for full-time, center-based infant care typically range from $125 to $175 per week. Toddler care may be slightly less, around $110 to $160 per week. Home-based daycare is often more affordable. These rates are generally lower than the state's urban centers like Jackson. 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. Parents in Sandhill should apply through the Rankin County MDHS office. Additionally, some local churches or community centers may offer subsidized slots or scholarships.
Are there many daycare centers with extended hours or weekend care options in Sandhill to accommodate non-traditional work schedules?
Finding daycare with extended hours (beyond 6:00 PM) or weekend care in Sandhill can be challenging, as most licensed centers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM schedule. Your best bet for flexible hours is often licensed family childcare homes, where providers may offer more personalized scheduling. It's essential to inquire directly and early. Some parents in the area form small, shared nanny arrangements or utilize drop-in care services in nearby Flowood or Pearl, which have more commercial centers. Networking with other local parents through community Facebook groups (e.g., "Sandhill, MS Community") can help identify rare flexible providers.
What resources are available in Sandhill to help me find and compare different daycare options?
The primary statewide resource is the Mississippi Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) Network, which you can access online or by calling 1-888-4KID-MS. They maintain a database of licensed providers and can give referrals based on your zip code, child's age, and needed hours. Locally, the Rankin County Chamber of Commerce may have listings, and the First Steps Early Childhood Coalition of Rankin County is a valuable community partner focused on early care and education. For real-world reviews and recommendations, joining local parent-focused social media groups is invaluable. Always complement online research with in-person tours and interviews.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Sandhill, and when should I start looking for care?
For infants and toddlers, waitlists at the more sought-after licensed centers in Sandhill can range from 3 to 9 months, especially for spots opening in the summer or fall. It is strongly 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 months in advance. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $25-$75). For preschool-age children (3-5 years), availability is often better, but you should still start looking 3-4 months ahead. Don't hesitate to get on multiple lists and check back periodically, as spots can open unexpectedly.