The Best Daycare Centers in Silver Creek, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Silver Creek. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Silver Creek
Silver Creek Child Development Center
Independent
Silver Creek Child Development Center is the primary local childcare facility serving the Silver Creek community, offering comprehensive early childhood education programs from infancy through pre-K. The center focuses on developmental milestones with age-appropriate curriculum that includes literacy development, social skills, and cognitive growth. Staff maintain low teacher-to-child ratios and participate in ongoing professional development. The facility features secure indoor learning environments with modern educational materials and safe outdoor play areas. Parents appreciate the center's strong community ties and consistent communication about child progress and daily activities.
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Monticello Early Learning Academy
Independent
Located approximately 15 minutes from Silver Creek in nearby Monticello, this highly-rated learning academy serves families throughout Lawrence County. The center emphasizes school readiness through structured academic preparation combined with play-based learning. Features include certified early childhood educators, comprehensive security systems, and developmentally appropriate classrooms. The curriculum incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. Parents consistently praise the qualified teaching staff, clean facilities, and the center's commitment to individualized attention for each child.
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Brookhaven Academy Child Development Center
Brookhaven School District
As part of the Brookhaven School District, this child development center serves families throughout Lincoln County and surrounding areas including Silver Creek. The center offers research-based early childhood education with certified teachers and structured curriculum aligned with state early learning standards. Facilities include secure, age-specific classrooms, modern playground equipment, and dedicated learning centers for literacy, math, and creative arts. The program emphasizes holistic development through balanced activities that support cognitive, physical, and social growth. Transportation options and flexible scheduling make it accessible for working families in the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Silver Creek, MS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Silver Creek, MS, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Silver Creek, as in all of 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 background checks, health and safety training (including CPR/First Aid), facility safety, and nutritional guidelines. To verify a facility's compliance, you can visit the MSDH's "Find Child Care" online portal or contact them directly. It's highly recommended to ask any provider for their current license number and check for any recent inspection reports or violations. Due to Silver Creek's smaller size, many home-based providers may be legally exempt from licensing if they care for fewer than six children, so it's crucial to ask about their registration status and policies.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Silver Creek, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Silver Creek and the surrounding rural areas of Mississippi, daycare costs are generally lower than the national average but can vary significantly based on the type of care. For a licensed childcare center, you might expect to pay between $100 to $150 per week for an infant. Home-based daycare is often more affordable, ranging from $80 to $120 per week. 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, local churches or community organizations in the Silver Creek area may offer limited scholarships or sliding-scale fees, so it's worth inquiring directly with providers.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Silver Creek, and when should I start looking for care?
Given that Silver Creek is a small community with limited childcare center options, waitlists can be surprisingly long, especially for infant care. It's not uncommon for popular, well-regarded centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. For home-based providers, availability can be more sporadic. We strongly recommend starting your search as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before you need care. Be proactive: contact all available options, get on multiple waitlists (even if there's a small fee), and check back regularly. Networking with other local parents through community Facebook groups or church communities can also provide leads on upcoming openings.
What are the main types of childcare available in Silver Creek, and what are the pros and cons of each?
Parents in Silver Creek typically have three main options: 1. **Licensed Childcare Centers:** These are formal facilities (like the Silver Creek Early Learning Center, if applicable). Pros include structured curriculum, multiple staff, and regulated environments. Cons can be higher cost and longer waitlists. 2. **Licensed or Registered Family Childcare Homes:** Care provided in a provider's home. Pros often include a homier atmosphere, mixed-age groups, more flexible hours, and potentially lower cost. Cons may involve less structured programming and dependency on a single provider's availability. 3. **Relative, Friend, or Neighbor Care:** Informal, unlicensed care. Pros include high trust and flexibility. The major con is the lack of regulatory oversight; it's essential to have a very clear agreement on expectations, safety, and payment. Due to the rural setting, center-based options are limited, making family childcare homes a very common and vital service.
Are there any daycare or preschool programs in Silver Creek that offer part-time, drop-in, or after-school care for older children?
Options for non-traditional or part-time care in Silver Creek are limited but do exist. Some family childcare homes may offer more flexible, part-time schedules or drop-in care based on availability. For after-school care, your primary resource is the local school district. The South Pike School District, which serves Silver Creek, may offer an after-school program at the elementary school. It's essential to contact the school directly for details on availability, cost, and enrollment. For true drop-in care, your best bet is to network with other parents to find a trusted, licensed home provider willing to accommodate irregular hours, as dedicated drop-in centers are unlikely in a town of this size.