The Best Daycare Centers in Andrews, SC
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Andrews. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Andrews
Little Blessings Daycare
Independent
Little Blessings Daycare is a highly-regarded local facility known for its nurturing Christian-based environment and comprehensive early childhood programs. The center features a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates literacy development, social skills, and cognitive growth through structured activities and free play. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified with ongoing professional development training. The facility maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and emphasizes individualized attention. Parents consistently praise the clean, safe environment, regular communication about child development progress, and the center's strong community involvement. The outdoor play area is well-equipped with age-appropriate structures, and indoor classrooms are organized into learning centers that promote exploration and discovery.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Academy of Georgetown
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Georgetown serves families throughout the Andrews area with its nationally recognized Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, and STEM education. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and secure classroom environments. Highly qualified teachers implement developmentally appropriate practices with ongoing assessment of each child's progress. The facility includes dedicated infant rooms with individualized care plans, spacious preschool classrooms with interactive technology, and outdoor learning environments. Parents appreciate the nutritious meal program, regular parent-teacher conferences, and the academy's commitment to preparing children for kindergarten success through a balanced approach of structured learning and creative play.
Daycare Services:
The Sunshine House Early Learning Academy of Murrells Inlet
The Sunshine House
The Sunshine House in Murrells Inlet is a respected regional provider serving Andrews families with comprehensive early childhood education programs. Their research-based Creative Curriculum® emphasizes language development, social-emotional learning, and school readiness skills through hands-on activities and project-based learning. The center maintains NAEYC-accredited standards with highly qualified teachers who hold degrees in early childhood education. Safety features include secured entrances, comprehensive emergency preparedness protocols, and strict health and hygiene practices. The facility features age-specific playgrounds, modern classroom technology, and dedicated art and music spaces. Parents consistently report high satisfaction with the center's communication through daily reports, the quality of educational programming, and the caring, professional staff who build strong relationships with children and families.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Andrews, SC
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Andrews, SC, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Andrews, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the South Carolina Department of Social Services (SCDSS). This includes family childcare homes (caring for up to 6 children) and group childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and training. To verify a facility's license, you can use the SCDSS Child Care Search tool online. Simply enter "Andrews, SC" to see a list of licensed providers, their inspection history, and any compliance notes. It's highly recommended to choose a licensed provider for your child's safety and your peace of mind.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Andrews, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Andrews and the surrounding rural areas of Williamsburg and Georgetown counties, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $120 to $160 per week, while toddler care may be slightly less, around $110 to $140 per week. These costs are generally lower than in larger South Carolina cities like Charleston or Columbia. For financial assistance, South Carolina's ABC Voucher Program (also known as SC Voucher) is the primary resource for eligible low-income working families or those in education/training. You can apply through the local First Steps office serving Williamsburg County. Additionally, some local churches and community centers in Andrews may offer subsidized or sliding-scale care options.
Are there many daycare centers with extended hours or weekend care options in Andrews for parents working non-traditional shifts?
Due to Andrews' smaller, rural nature, traditional daycare centers with standard business hours (e.g., 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM) are most common. Options for extended evening, overnight, or weekend care are very limited within the town itself. Parents working in healthcare at Williamsburg Regional Hospital, in manufacturing, or on shift schedules may need to explore alternatives. These include seeking licensed family childcare homes that might offer more flexible arrangements, forming a nanny-share with other local families, or looking for providers in nearby larger towns like Georgetown or Kingstree, which may have a few more flexible options, though this adds commute time.
What should I look for when touring a daycare facility in Andrews, given the specific climate and local environment?
When touring a daycare in Andrews, pay close attention to factors influenced by the local subtropical climate. Ask about their heat and storm protocols—facilities should have safe, shaded outdoor play areas and a plan for bringing children indoors quickly during summer thunderstorms or high heat. Inspect for proper air conditioning and ventilation to combat humidity. Given Andrews' proximity to rural and wooded areas, inquire about their policies for insect protection (like tick and mosquito safety during outdoor play) and their procedures for severe weather, such as tornado watches common in the Pee Dee region. Also, check that the facility is free from moisture damage or mold, which can be a concern in older buildings.
How long are waitlists typically for infant care in Andrews, and what can I do to secure a spot?
While not as extreme as in major metropolitan areas, waitlists for infant care (children under 1 year) at the most sought-after licensed centers and homes in Andrews can still be 3 to 6 months long, due to limited slots and stricter staff-to-child ratios. It's advisable to begin your search and get on lists during your second trimester of pregnancy. To improve your chances, be proactive: contact multiple providers, get on multiple lists, and follow up with a polite phone call every 4-6 weeks. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in the surrounding neighborhoods, as they may have more immediate openings and offer a smaller, home-like setting that many Andrews parents appreciate.