The Best Daycare Centers in Sarah, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Sarah. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Sarah
The Goddard School of Hattiesburg
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Hattiesburg offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. Their curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development activities. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, modern classrooms. All teachers are highly qualified with ongoing professional development, and the school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios. They provide nutritious meals and snacks, regular parent communication through the Goddard mobile app, and comprehensive safety protocols including background-checked staff.
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Primrose School of Hattiesburg
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Hattiesburg provides Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. Their research-based curriculum includes literacy, math, science, social studies, and character development. The school features secure facilities with coded entry, outdoor learning environments, and dedicated music and art spaces. All lead teachers have early childhood education credentials, and the school maintains rigorous health and safety standards including regular sanitation procedures. They offer balanced meals and snacks, regular developmental assessments, and strong parent partnership through daily communication and family events.
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Creative Learning Center
Creative Learning Center, Inc.
Creative Learning Center offers a comprehensive early childhood program with a focus on individualized learning and whole-child development. Their curriculum incorporates hands-on learning activities, literacy development, and social skills building. The center features secure facilities with monitored access, age-segregated playgrounds, and well-equipped classrooms with learning centers. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified with ongoing professional development requirements. The center emphasizes parent involvement through regular conferences, daily reports, and family events. They provide nutritional meals and maintain strict health and safety protocols including regular facility inspections and emergency preparedness drills.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Sarah, MS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Sarah, Mississippi, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Sarah, Mississippi, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH), which sets standards for health, safety, and staff qualifications. This includes background checks for all employees, minimum staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:5 for infants), and regular facility inspections. To verify a daycare's license status, you can use the "Find Child Care" search tool on the MSDH website or contact the MSDH Division of Child Care Licensure directly. It's crucial to confirm this, as operating without a license is illegal and indicates the facility is not meeting state-mandated safety standards.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Sarah, MS?
In Sarah and the surrounding Covington County area, the average cost for full-time, center-based infant care typically ranges from $110 to $150 per week. For toddlers, costs may be slightly lower, around $100 to $135 per week. Home-based family childcare is often more affordable, averaging $85 to $120 per week. These costs are generally below the state average for Mississippi, reflecting the rural nature of the area. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly fee (meals, diapers, curriculum) and to inquire about any registration or supply fees that may be required upfront.
Are there any state or local programs in Sarah that help low-income families afford childcare?
Yes, the primary program is the Mississippi Child Care Payment Program (CCPP), administered by the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS). This state-subsidized program helps eligible low-income families in Sarah pay for childcare at participating licensed or registered providers. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work or education requirements. You can apply through the Covington County MDHS office. Additionally, some local churches or community organizations may offer limited assistance or sliding-scale fees, so it's worth inquiring directly with providers about flexible payment options.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Sarah, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Sarah, waitlists for infant rooms at licensed daycare centers can be significant, often ranging from 3 to 9 months. For toddler and preschool spots, wait times may be shorter (1-4 months). To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Contact multiple providers (including licensed home-based options in the area) to get on their lists. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee, and maintain communication with the center every few months. Flexibility on your start date can also help you move up a list if an opening arises unexpectedly.
What are some key questions to ask when touring a daycare in Sarah, specifically regarding their daily routines and safety protocols?
Beyond general questions, focus on local and practical concerns. Ask about their storm safety plan, given Mississippi's severe weather, including where children take shelter during tornado warnings. Inquire about their policy for communicable illnesses common in close-knit communities. Ask how they handle transportation if they offer field trips, and verify driver credentials. For daily routines, ask if outdoor play is a priority and if they have shaded areas, given the hot Mississippi summers. Finally, ask about staff longevity—low turnover in a small town often indicates a stable, quality environment. Always request to see their most recent MSDH licensing inspection report.