The Best Daycare Centers in Shelby, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Shelby. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Shelby
Shelby Head Start Center
Community Action Agency
Shelby Head Start Center operates as part of the Community Action Agency network, providing comprehensive early childhood education with a focus on school readiness for low-income families. The center employs degreed early childhood educators and follows the Creative Curriculum, emphasizing literacy, math, and social-emotional development. Facilities include modern classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and nutritional meal programs meeting USDA standards. The center stands out for its family engagement programs, regular developmental assessments, and transportation services for enrolled families.
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Little Blessings Childcare & Learning Center
Independent
Located in nearby Cleveland (serving the Shelby area), Little Blessings provides a Christian-based educational environment with structured curriculum for all age groups. The center features state-certified teachers, low student-teacher ratios, and security systems including coded entry. Their educational approach combines play-based learning with academic preparation, featuring literacy-rich classrooms, STEM activities, and character development programs. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, multimedia learning centers, and provides nutritious meals prepared on-site.
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Kiddie Kollege Daycare & Learning Center
Independent
Serving the broader Bolivar County area including Shelby, Kiddie Kollege offers a developmental approach to early childhood education with emphasis on individualized learning plans. The center employs qualified early childhood educators and maintains small class sizes for personalized attention. Their curriculum focuses on kindergarten readiness through hands-on activities, language development, and social skills building. The facility features secure indoor learning environments, fenced playgrounds with safety surfaces, and comprehensive health and safety protocols including regular staff training and emergency preparedness drills.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Shelby, MS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Shelby, MS, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Shelby, Mississippi, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) unless they are legally exempt (like certain church-affiliated programs or small in-home care). Licensed providers must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, health and safety inspections, staff training in CPR/first aid, and facility requirements. To verify a daycare's license status, you can use the MSDH's "Find Child Care" online search tool or contact the MSDH's Child Care Licensure division directly. It's crucial to confirm licensing, as it ensures a baseline level of safety and oversight for your child.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Shelby, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Shelby and the broader Bolivar County area, the average cost for full-time, center-based infant care typically ranges from $400 to $550 per month. For toddlers, it may be slightly lower, around $350 to $500 per month. These rates can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and operator (non-profit vs. private). 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. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Shelby, and how far in advance should I start looking for care?
Yes, waitlists are common, especially for infant rooms and highly-regarded centers in Shelby. Due to limited options in smaller communities, popular facilities often have limited capacity. It is strongly recommended to begin your search at least 3-6 months before you need care, and if you are expecting a child, to get on waitlists during your second trimester. When contacting centers, ask specifically about their current waitlist length and any deposit required to hold a spot. Exploring all options, including licensed family childcare homes in residential areas, can provide more immediate availability.
What are the typical operating hours for daycare centers in Shelby, and is there flexibility for parents with non-traditional work schedules?
Most licensed daycare centers in Shelby operate on a fairly standard schedule, typically from around 6:00 AM or 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM or 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday. This can be a challenge for parents working in healthcare, shift work, or agriculture, which are common in the region. Flexibility is limited, and evening, overnight, or weekend care is extremely rare in formal centers. Your best options for non-traditional hours are to seek out licensed family childcare providers who may offer more personalized hours, arrange a nanny share with another family, or rely on trusted family members. Be sure to discuss your specific schedule needs upfront.
What should I look for during a tour of a potential daycare in Shelby, and are there any local resources to help compare options?
During a tour, observe the cleanliness and safety (covered outlets, secure gates, clean toys), the interaction between staff and children (are they engaged and responsive?), and ask about staff turnover. Inquire about their curriculum for school readiness and their policy on parental communication. Specifically for Shelby, ask about their plan for severe weather, given Mississippi's tornado risk. For comparing options, use the MSDH online search tool and read any available inspection reports. Also, leverage local word-of-mouth; ask for recommendations from other parents at places like the Shelby City Hall, local churches, or the Bolivar County Health Department. Personal referrals are invaluable in a close-knit community.