The Best Daycare Centers in Saucier, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Saucier. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Saucier
Little Lambs Learning Center
Little Lambs Learning Center
Little Lambs Learning Center is a highly-regarded local childcare facility serving Saucier with a comprehensive early childhood education program. They offer a structured curriculum that emphasizes both academic readiness and social-emotional development, with age-appropriate learning activities for each developmental stage. The center features certified early childhood educators with extensive training in child development, maintaining excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Their facility includes secure indoor learning environments and safe outdoor play areas with age-appropriate equipment. The center is known for its nurturing Christian-based environment, strong parent communication, and emphasis on creating a family-like atmosphere where children feel secure and valued while developing foundational skills.
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Kiddie Academy of Gulfport
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Gulfport serves the broader Harrison County area including Saucier families with their nationally recognized Life Essentials® curriculum. This research-based educational approach focuses on character development, literacy, STEM activities, and social skills through hands-on learning experiences. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems including coded entry, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and rigorous safety protocols. Their degreed teachers implement developmentally appropriate practices with ongoing professional development. The academy offers nutritious meal programs, technology-enhanced learning stations, and spacious indoor/outdoor play areas designed to stimulate cognitive, physical, and emotional growth in a structured yet nurturing environment.
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The Goddard School of Biloxi
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Biloxi provides premium early childhood education to families throughout the Gulf Coast region, including Saucier residents. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) balances academic preparation with play-based discovery, emphasizing literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts. The school features highly qualified faculty with degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and maintains exceptional staff-to-child ratios. Their purpose-built facility includes secure classrooms, age-appropriate learning centers, and protected outdoor playgrounds. The program incorporates daily communication with parents through electronic updates, regular developmental assessments, and enrichment activities including yoga, music, and foreign language exposure, creating a well-rounded educational foundation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Saucier, MS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Saucier, Mississippi?
In Saucier, as in all of Mississippi, childcare facilities must be licensed by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH). This includes family childcare homes (caring for 6-12 children) and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and training in areas like CPR and First Aid. You can verify a provider's license status on the MSDH website. Many reputable providers in the Saucier area will proudly display their license and are happy to discuss their compliance. Unlicensed care is risky and not recommended.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Saucier, MS?
In the Saucier and surrounding Gulf Coast region, costs are generally more affordable than in larger metropolitan areas. For full-time care (5 days a week), you can expect to pay approximately **$120 to $180 per week** for an infant or toddler at a licensed center. In-home family daycare may be slightly less, around **$100 to $150 per week**. These are estimates, and prices can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and staff credentials. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly fee (e.g., meals, snacks, supplies).
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Saucier, and how far in advance should I apply?
Due to the rural/suburban nature of Saucier and limited high-quality options, popular licensed centers and in-home providers can have significant waitlists, especially for infants. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists **at least 6 to 9 months before you need care**, and even earlier if you know you will need an infant spot. Don't hesitate to get on multiple lists. For less immediate needs (like a preschool spot for a 3-year-old), a 3-6 month lead time is still advisable. Always ask about the current waitlist status and estimated timeline during your initial inquiry.
What types of childcare options are most commonly available in Saucier?
Saucier offers a mix of traditional options, though the selection is smaller than in nearby Gulfport or Biloxi. Your primary choices are: 1. **Licensed Family Childcare Homes:** Often run from a provider's residence, offering a home-like setting with smaller groups. These are common in residential areas of Saucier. 2. **Childcare Centers:** There are a few licensed centers in and around Saucier, some of which may be affiliated with churches or local community organizations. 3. **Part-Day Preschool Programs:** Often offered by churches for ages 3-5, which may not cover full working parent hours. 4. **In-Home Nannies/Babysitters:** Less formal but an option some families pursue, especially for flexible or odd-hour needs. Always ensure proper vetting and references.
Are there any local resources or programs in Harrison County to help parents find or pay for childcare in Saucier?
Yes, there are key county and state resources. First, contact the **Early Childhood Services division of the Gulfport School District** or the **Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS)**. They administer the **Child Care Payment Program (CCPP)**, a subsidy for eligible low-income working families. For finding providers, use the **Mississippi Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) Network**, which serves Harrison County. They maintain a searchable database of licensed providers in the Saucier area and can offer free referral assistance. Additionally, some local employers on the Coast may have information or partnerships with specific providers.