The Best Daycare Centers in Union, MS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Union. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Union
Little Blessings Child Care
Independent
Little Blessings Child Care is a highly-regarded local daycare known for its nurturing Christian-based environment and comprehensive early childhood education program. The center features a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates literacy development, math readiness, and social skills. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified with ongoing professional development training. The facility includes secure indoor learning centers, age-appropriate outdoor play areas, and maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Parents consistently praise the center's warm, family-like atmosphere and strong communication about child development progress.
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Newton Academy of Early Learning
Independent
Located just 15 minutes from Union in Newton, this highly-rated center offers a structured academic preschool program combined with developmental appropriate practice. The curriculum includes STEM activities, literacy enrichment, and character education. The facility features modern security systems including keypad entry, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and regular safety drills. Certified early childhood educators implement individualized learning plans with regular progress reports. The center is noted for its spacious classrooms, nutritional meal program, and extensive outdoor learning environment.
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Creative Kids Learning Center
Independent
Serving families in the Union area from nearby Decatur, Creative Kids Learning Center emphasizes holistic child development through a balanced approach of structured learning and creative exploration. The center uses the Creative Curriculum system with supplemental Montessori-inspired activities. Features include dedicated infant rooms with low child-to-teacher ratios, technology-integrated preschool classrooms, and a comprehensive kindergarten readiness program. The facility maintains state-of-the-art security systems and employs degreed early childhood professionals. Parents appreciate the center's transparent communication, flexible scheduling options, and focus on social-emotional development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Union, MS
What are the licensing requirements for daycare centers in Union, Mississippi, and how can I verify a provider's status?
In Union, Mississippi, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH), which sets standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, and child-to-staff ratios. For infants, the ratio is 1:5, and for 4-year-olds, it's 1:15. You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any violations by using the "Find Child Care" search tool on the MSDH website or by contacting the MSDH Division of Child Care Licensure directly. It's crucial to choose a licensed facility in Union to ensure basic safety standards are met.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for a toddler in Union, MS, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Union and the surrounding Newton County area, the average cost for full-time daycare for a toddler typically ranges from $100 to $150 per week. Costs can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum, and age of the child. For financial assistance, Mississippi offers the Child Care Payment Program (CCPP) through the Department of Human Services (MDHS) for eligible families based on income, work, or school attendance. Locally, you can apply through the MDHS Newton County office. Additionally, some centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Union, and when should I start looking for infant care?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Union, waitlists for infant care, in particular, at the most sought-after licensed centers can be several months long. It is highly recommended that expecting parents begin researching and touring facilities early in the second trimester of pregnancy to secure a spot. For older toddlers or preschool-aged children, waitlists may be shorter but can still exist, especially for programs with strong local reputations. Proactive planning and getting on multiple lists are common strategies for parents in the area.
Are there any home-based daycare (family childcare home) options in Union, and what should I look for when considering one?
Yes, there are licensed and unregistered family childcare home providers in Union. Licensed family homes are regulated by MSDH with specific capacity limits (typically up to 6 children). When considering one, ensure they are either licensed or registered. Ask about their daily schedule, emergency plans, discipline policies, and how they handle meals and naps. Request references from other parents. In a small town like Union, personal recommendations from neighbors or local community groups (like Facebook groups for Union parents) can be invaluable for finding trustworthy home-based care.
What types of early learning programs or preschool curricula are commonly offered by daycares in Union, MS?
Many daycare centers in Union offer structured preschool programs for children ages 3-5, often incorporating curricula like Creative Curriculum or Abeka, which focus on school readiness through play-based and structured learning. Some may also have a faith-based component. Given the rural setting, some programs may emphasize outdoor play and nature exploration. It's important to ask specific questions about daily learning activities, teacher qualifications in early childhood education, and how they track developmental milestones. The local Union Public School District may also have information on community pre-K partnerships.