The Best Daycare Centers in Southaven, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Southaven. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Southaven
Primrose School of Southaven
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Southaven offers a nationally accredited Balanced Learning® curriculum that combines teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor learning environments. Their approach focuses on character development, literacy, and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) concepts. All lead teachers have early childhood education credentials, and the center maintains low student-to-teacher ratios. The school provides nutritious meals and snacks through their exclusive Primrose Nutrition Program and offers regular parent communication through electronic daily reports.
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Kiddie Academy of Southaven
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Southaven utilizes their Life Essentials® curriculum that promotes social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development through hands-on learning experiences. The center features secure keypad entry, monitored classrooms, and age-specific learning centers. Their program includes character education, technology integration, and literacy development. Certified teachers implement developmentally appropriate practices with ongoing assessment tracking. The academy offers flexible scheduling options and provides meals through their nutrition program. Parents receive regular updates through the Kiddie Academy mobile app with photos and daily activity reports.
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The Goddard School of Southaven
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Southaven implements the F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. The facility includes secure entry systems, multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups, and dedicated art and music rooms. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies through project-based learning. All teachers have early childhood education backgrounds and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes health and safety with rigorous cleaning protocols and maintains an open-door policy for parent observation and involvement.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Southaven, MS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare centers in Southaven, MS, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Southaven, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH). Key requirements include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:5 for infants, 1:11 for 4-year-olds), background checks for all employees, annual health and fire inspections, and age-appropriate curriculum. To verify a center's compliance, you can use the MSDH's "Find Child Care" online search tool, which shows the facility's license status, inspection reports, and any corrective actions. You can also request to see the center's current license, which must be posted publicly. It's highly recommended to review recent inspection reports for any violations.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Southaven, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Southaven area, average costs for full-time, center-based infant care typically range from $130 to $180 per week. Toddler care is slightly less, averaging $120 to $160 per week. These rates can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum (like Montessori), and location. For financial assistance, Mississippi offers the Child Care Payment Program (CCPP) through the Department of Human Services (MDHS), which provides subsidies to eligible low-income working families or those in education/training programs. Additionally, some Southaven centers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees. It's best to contact the MDHS DeSoto County office or individual centers directly to inquire.
How long are typical waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Southaven, and when should I start looking?
Due to high demand, especially for infant rooms, waitlists at well-regarded daycare centers in Southaven can be significant. It's common for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer for infants. We recommend starting your search during pregnancy, ideally by the second trimester. When touring facilities, always ask about their current waitlist length, the deposit policy to secure a spot (which is usually non-refundable), and how often they update families on their position. Considering in-home licensed providers can also be a good alternative with potentially shorter wait times.
Are there any unique local resources or networks in Southaven to help parents find and evaluate childcare options?
Yes, Southaven and DeSoto County offer several local resources. A primary resource is the **DeSoto County Early Childhood Coalition**, which works to improve childcare quality and access. For referrals and personalized searches, parents can contact **Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R)** services through organizations like the Family Resource Center of North Mississippi. They provide free referrals based on your needs, location, and budget. Additionally, local Facebook groups such as "Southaven, MS Community" or "DeSoto County Moms" are invaluable for getting firsthand recommendations and reviews from other parents in the area.
What should I look for in a daycare's emergency preparedness plan, specifically for Southaven's weather risks?
Given Southaven's location in the Mid-South, a robust emergency plan should specifically address severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, and occasional winter ice storms. When touring a center, ask: 1) Where is the designated severe weather shelter (typically an interior, windowless room on the lowest floor)? 2) How often do they conduct tornado drills? (MSDH requires monthly fire drills but also recommends severe weather drills). 3) What is their communication protocol for parents during and after an emergency? 4) Do they have backup power or plans for extended closures? 5) How are children evacuated or relocated if the building is compromised? A quality center will readily share this plan and demonstrate practiced procedures.