The Best Daycare Centers in Hollywood, SC
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Hollywood. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Hollywood
Little Blessings Child Development Center
Independent
Little Blessings Child Development Center offers a comprehensive Christian-based educational program serving children from 6 weeks to 12 years. Their curriculum focuses on developmental milestones through structured learning activities, creative play, and hands-on experiences. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios with qualified early childhood educators, secure facilities with controlled access, and age-appropriate learning environments. They emphasize character development, social skills, and academic readiness with a balanced approach that includes outdoor play areas, nutritious meal programs, and regular parent communication. The center stands out for its family-oriented atmosphere and commitment to individualized attention for each child's development.
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The Sunshine House Early Learning Academy
The Sunshine House
The Sunshine House in Hollywood provides a nationally-recognized early learning curriculum that combines academic preparation with social-emotional development. Their proprietary curriculum includes literacy development, STEM activities, and creative arts integrated throughout daily routines. The facility features secure entry systems, certified teachers with ongoing professional development, and modern classrooms equipped with educational technology. They offer comprehensive safety protocols including regular drills and health screenings, plus nutritious meals prepared on-site. The center is distinguished by its structured learning environment that balances educational rigor with play-based activities and strong parent partnership programs.
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Creative Beginnings Child Development Center
Independent
Creative Beginnings Child Development Center offers a play-based learning approach that fosters cognitive, social, and physical development through carefully designed learning centers and hands-on activities. Their curriculum emphasizes language development, early math concepts, and scientific exploration tailored to each age group. The center features experienced early childhood educators with specialized training in developmental psychology, secure facilities with surveillance systems, and spacious indoor/outdoor play areas. They maintain small class sizes to ensure personalized attention and implement comprehensive safety protocols including regular sanitation and emergency preparedness. The center is known for its nurturing environment that encourages curiosity and builds foundational skills for lifelong learning.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Hollywood, SC
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Hollywood, SC, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Hollywood, SC, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the South Carolina Department of Social Services (SCDSS). This includes family childcare homes (serving up to 6 children) and group childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications, and facility safety. To verify a facility's license status, you can use the SCDSS Child Care Search tool on their official website. You can search by provider name, city (Hollywood), or zip code. It's crucial to check for any compliance history or violations. Additionally, many quality providers in the area also participate in the state's voluntary ABC Quality rating program, which indicates a higher standard of care.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Hollywood, SC?
The cost of daycare in Hollywood, SC, is generally more affordable than in larger metropolitan areas like Charleston, but it varies by type of care. For a licensed childcare center, full-time infant care typically ranges from $130 to $180 per week. For toddlers, the cost is slightly lower, often between $120 and $160 per week. In-home family daycare is often a more budget-friendly option, averaging $100 to $140 per week. These rates are estimates, and specific costs depend 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, enrichment activities). For financial assistance, eligible families in Charleston County, which includes Hollywood, can apply for the South Carolina Voucher Program through the Charleston County First Steps office.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Hollywood, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common for many of the more sought-after licensed daycare centers in and around Hollywood, particularly for infant rooms which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. Due to the semi-rural nature of the area, there are fewer large centers compared to urban settings, which can limit immediate availability. It is highly recommended that parents begin their search and get on waitlists at least 6 to 9 months before their needed start date, especially for infant care. Some popular centers may have waitlists exceeding a year. When touring facilities, always ask about their current waitlist length and policy. Exploring licensed family childcare homes can sometimes offer more immediate openings and is a valuable alternative in this community.
What unique childcare options or programs are available for preschool-aged children in Hollywood, SC?
Hollywood offers several community-focused options for preschool-aged children (3-5 years). Many local daycare centers incorporate structured preschool curricula to prepare children for kindergarten. A notable local resource is the **Hollywood Elementary School**, which may host a state-funded 4K Child Development program for eligible four-year-olds. Additionally, several faith-based centers in the area, such as those affiliated with local churches, offer preschool programs that often include early learning in a faith-based environment. Given Hollywood's proximity to natural settings, some providers may also emphasize outdoor play and nature-based learning. Parents should inquire about a program's kindergarten readiness plan and whether it aligns with South Carolina's early learning standards.
As a parent in a rural area like Hollywood, what should I look for in a daycare's emergency and transportation policies?
Given Hollywood's rural setting and proximity to both wooded areas and major roads like US-17, specific emergency preparedness is key. When evaluating a daycare, ask about their written emergency plans for events like hurricanes, power outages, wildfires, or medical emergencies. They should have clear evacuation routes, backup power for critical devices, and protocols for communication with parents. Furthermore, inquire about their policy on field trips and transportation. Many centers in smaller communities do not provide daily transportation, but if they do, ensure all vehicles are licensed for childcare use and drivers have proper credentials. Also, confirm their policy on authorized pick-up persons, as care may often be provided by extended family or neighbors in close-knit communities like Hollywood.