The Best Daycare Centers in Tylertown, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Tylertown. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Tylertown
Tylertown Head Start Center
Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative
This federally-funded early childhood education program provides comprehensive services to low-income families in Walthall County. The center focuses on school readiness with a research-based curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math, and social-emotional development. Certified teachers maintain low student-teacher ratios, and the program includes health screenings, nutritious meals, and family support services. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play areas, and regular developmental assessments. What sets this center apart is its holistic approach that supports the entire family while preparing children for kindergarten success.
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Tylertown Early Head Start Program
Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative
Specifically designed for children from birth to age 3, this program provides high-quality early care and education to support critical brain development during the earliest years. The center employs trained early childhood specialists who implement evidence-based practices for infant and toddler development. Services include home visits, comprehensive health services, and parent education. The program emphasizes secure attachments, language development, and responsive caregiving in a safe, nurturing environment. Their focus on the unique needs of very young children and strong parent partnerships makes them a standout option for early childhood care.
Daycare Services:
Sunshine Learning Center
Independent Childcare Center
Located in nearby Columbia (approximately 15 miles from Tylertown), this highly-rated center serves families throughout the region with a comprehensive educational program. They offer a structured curriculum that balances academic preparation with play-based learning, focusing on literacy, STEM, and social skills development. The center features secure facilities with age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and modern learning materials. Certified teachers provide individualized attention with low student-teacher ratios. Their extended hours, summer programs, and strong communication with parents have earned them excellent reviews from families across Marion County and surrounding areas.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Tylertown, MS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Tylertown, MS, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Tylertown and all of Mississippi, childcare facilities must be licensed by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH). Licensing ensures they meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and staff qualifications. For Tylertown specifically, you can verify a center or family childcare home's license status by using the "Find Child Care" search tool on the MSDH website. It's crucial to check this, as operating without a license is illegal. Licensed facilities in Walthall County are subject to annual unannounced inspections, and their reports are public record. Always ask to see a current license during your tour.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Tylertown?
In Tylertown and the surrounding Walthall County area, daycare costs are generally lower than in Mississippi's larger metropolitan areas. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay an average of **$100 to $140 per week** for full-time care for an infant or toddler. In-home family daycare providers may offer slightly lower rates, typically ranging from **$80 to $120 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, diapers, formula).
Are there any state or local programs in Tylertown that can help with childcare costs for low-income families?
Yes, the primary program is the Mississippi Child Care Payment Program (CCPP), administered by the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS). This subsidy helps eligible low-income families in Tylertown and Walthall County pay for childcare at participating licensed or registered providers. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work or training requirements. You can apply through the local MDHS County Office. Additionally, some local churches or community organizations may offer limited assistance or sliding-scale fees, so it's worth inquiring directly with providers.
How far in advance should I start looking for and applying to daycares in Tylertown, given its smaller size?
Due to Tylertown's smaller population, the number of licensed childcare slots is limited. It is highly recommended to begin your search **at least 3-6 months before you need care**, especially for infant spots, which are the most scarce. Many popular in-home providers and the limited center-based options in the area may have waitlists. Starting early allows you to tour facilities, get on multiple waitlists if necessary, and secure a spot that fits your needs. Don't assume availability; always call ahead as some providers may only have openings at specific times of the year.
What are my options for childcare in Tylertown if I need non-standard hours, like evenings or weekends?
Finding childcare for evenings, overnight, or weekends in Tylertown is very challenging, as most licensed centers and family homes operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM schedule. Your best options are to: 1) Inquire directly with local family childcare homes to see if any are willing to accommodate a flexible schedule for an additional fee. 2) Explore unlicensed "babysitting" or "nanny-share" arrangements with individuals, which are common in rural communities. You can often find leads through local community Facebook groups (e.g., "Tylertown Talk") or by asking for referrals from other parents. Be sure to conduct thorough background checks and reference checks for any unlicensed caregiver.