The Best Daycare Centers in Stringer, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Stringer. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Stringer
Kiddie Kottage Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Kottage Learning Center is a highly-regarded childcare facility located just 15 minutes from Stringer in Laurel. They offer a comprehensive early childhood education program with a play-based learning approach that incorporates Creative Curriculum. The center features state-certified teachers with degrees in early childhood education, low student-to-teacher ratios, and secure facility access with surveillance systems. Their program includes age-appropriate learning centers, outdoor playgrounds, and nutritional meal programs. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, strong communication, and developmental progress children make here.
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Little Blessings Child Development Center
Independent
Little Blessings Child Development Center provides quality childcare services to families in the Stringer area from their Laurel location. The center operates with a Christian-based curriculum that focuses on whole-child development through structured learning activities and creative play. Features include certified early childhood educators, secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and developmental assessments. The center emphasizes social-emotional learning alongside academic preparation, with parents noting the caring staff, clean facilities, and excellent communication about their child's daily activities and progress.
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ABC Child Development Center
Independent
ABC Child Development Center has been serving the Stringer and Laurel communities for nearly two decades with a focus on developmental early childhood education. Their curriculum blends Montessori principles with traditional preschool preparation, featuring hands-on learning stations, literacy programs, and STEM activities. The center maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios, employs CPR and first-aid certified teachers, and offers nutritional breakfast, lunch, and snacks. Facilities include secure playgrounds, modern classrooms with learning centers, and comprehensive safety protocols. Parents appreciate the structured yet nurturing environment and the center's commitment to kindergarten readiness.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Stringer, MS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Stringer, Mississippi, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Mississippi, all childcare facilities caring for 5 or more children must be licensed by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH). This includes family childcare homes and centers. Licensed facilities in Stringer must meet standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, health and safety inspections, and staff training in CPR and First Aid. To verify a provider's license, you can use the "Find Child Care" search tool on the MSDH website or contact the MSDH Child Care Licensure office directly. It's highly recommended to only consider licensed providers to ensure a baseline of safety and quality for your child.
What is the typical cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Stringer, MS?
Childcare costs in Stringer are generally more affordable than in larger Mississippi cities, but they vary based on the child's age and the type of care. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay approximately $100 to $150 per week for full-time care for a toddler. Infant care is typically more expensive, often ranging from $120 to $180 per week due to lower staff-to-child ratios. Licensed family childcare homes may offer slightly lower rates. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly fee (e.g., meals, snacks, curriculum materials) and if there are any additional registration or supply fees.
Are there any state or local programs in Jasper County that can help me pay for childcare in Stringer?
Yes, eligible families in Stringer and Jasper County can apply for assistance through the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) Child Care Payment Program (CCPP). This subsidy helps low-income working families, those in job training, or parents attending school afford licensed childcare. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. You can apply online through the MDHS ACCESS portal or contact the local MDHS office in Bay Springs or Paulding for assistance. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking about payment options.
Given Stringer's rural location, what are my options if I need childcare during non-standard hours (evenings, weekends, or overnight)?
Finding non-standard hour care in a small town like Stringer can be challenging, as most licensed centers operate on a traditional Monday-Friday, daytime schedule. Your primary options are to seek out a licensed family childcare home that may offer more flexible hours or to explore in-home care options like a qualified nanny or babysitter. Networking through local community groups, churches like Stringer United Methodist, or the Stringer Attendance Center parent-teacher organization can be invaluable for finding trusted individuals. Be sure to thoroughly vet any in-home caregiver, checking references and discussing your specific schedule needs upfront.
What should I look for when touring a potential daycare in Stringer, and are there specific questions I should ask?
When touring a daycare in Stringer, observe the cleanliness, safety (outlet covers, secure gates, clean toys), and how staff interact with the children. Ask specific questions relevant to a small-town setting: "What is your staff turnover rate?" (consistency is key), "What is your plan for emergency situations, and how quickly can first responders arrive?" (rural location consideration), "How do you handle communication with parents, and is there a secure outdoor play area?" Also, inquire about their curriculum or daily structure, their policy on sick children, and ask for references from other local parents. Trust your instincts about the environment and the caregivers' warmth and attentiveness.