The Best Daycare Centers in Manning, SC
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Manning. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Manning
Clarendon County Learning Center
Independent
Clarendon County Learning Center is a highly-regarded local childcare facility serving Manning and surrounding communities. The center offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with age-appropriate curriculum focusing on cognitive, social, and emotional development. They maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios with qualified staff who receive ongoing professional development. The facility features secure classrooms, modern learning materials, and safe outdoor play areas. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, strong communication, and the center's commitment to preparing children for kindergarten through structured learning activities combined with creative play.
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Clarendon Early Childhood Academy
Independent
Clarendon Early Childhood Academy provides quality childcare with an emphasis on early literacy and school readiness. The academy uses a research-based curriculum that incorporates STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) activities appropriate for each developmental stage. Their qualified teaching staff includes certified early childhood educators who create individualized learning plans. The facility maintains strict safety protocols, including secure entry systems and comprehensive background checks for all staff. The center is noted for its inclusive environment, nutritious meal program, and strong parent-teacher partnerships that support children's holistic development.
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The Sunshine House Early Learning Academy
The Sunshine House
The Sunshine House in Sumter serves families throughout Clarendon County including Manning, offering a nationally-recognized early learning curriculum. This accredited facility features the exclusive Play-based literacy and learning approach with dedicated learning centers in each classroom. Highly qualified teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive continuous training. The center provides state-of-the-art security including electronic check-in/out, camera monitoring, and secured perimeters. Parents consistently rate this facility highly for its educational quality, experienced staff, clean and organized environment, and comprehensive developmental tracking system that ensures each child reaches important milestones.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Manning, SC
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Manning, SC?
In Manning and the surrounding Clarendon County area, full-time daycare costs can vary based on the type of facility. For a licensed daycare center, parents can expect to pay between **$120 to $180 per week** for an infant or toddler. In-home family childcare providers often have slightly lower rates, typically ranging from **$100 to $140 per week**. These costs are generally lower than the state average for South Carolina, reflecting the rural nature of the area. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. Limited local options can sometimes mean fewer price variations, so it's advisable to budget for the higher end of the range.
How can I verify if a daycare in Manning is properly licensed and check its compliance history?
All childcare facilities in Manning must be licensed by the **South Carolina Department of Social Services (SCDSS)**. The primary tool for verification is the **SCDSS Child Care Search** website. You can search by provider name, city (Manning), or zip code to view a facility's license status, capacity, and age ranges served. More importantly, you can review the facility's **compliance history**, which details any licensing violations, complaint investigations, and the results of their annual inspections. You can also contact the SCDSS Child Care Licensing office for the region that covers Clarendon County directly for additional information. Always visit a potential daycare and ask to see their current license certificate, which should be posted.
Are there any state or local programs in Clarendon County that help with childcare costs for working families?
Yes, eligible families in Manning can apply for assistance through the **South Carolina Voucher Program**, administered by the SCDSS. This program provides financial help to low-income working families, families in training/education programs, or those receiving protective services. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. Additionally, Clarendon County may have limited slots for the **Head Start and Early Head Start** programs, which provide free, comprehensive early childhood education to income-eligible families. It's crucial to apply early for these programs due to high demand and waiting lists. You can start the application process through the SCDSS website or by contacting the Clarendon County Department of Social Services office in Manning.
What is the availability and waitlist situation like for infant care in Manning, given the smaller number of providers?
Securing infant care (children under 1 year) in Manning can be challenging due to limited capacity. State licensing mandates strict staff-to-child ratios for infants (1:5), meaning each facility can only accept a small number. Many providers, especially the highly-rated centers and registered family homes, often have **waitlists of 3 to 9 months**. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search and get on multiple waitlists **during pregnancy or as soon as possible**. Be proactive: call providers to inquire about their current infant capacity and waitlist procedures, and ask how often the list is updated. Exploring options in nearby towns like Summerton or Sumter may be necessary if local waitlists are too long.
What are some key questions to ask during a tour of a daycare in Manning, specific to our community's context?
Beyond standard questions, tailor your visit to local considerations. Key questions include: 1. **"What is your plan for severe weather, like hurricanes or tornadoes, which can affect our area?"** (Evacuation/shelter plans). 2. **"How do you handle transportation or field trips given our rural location?"** (Vehicle safety, car seat use). 3. **"What is your staff turnover rate?"** (Stability is crucial in a small market where replacing qualified staff is difficult). 4. **"Are meals and snacks provided, and if so, do you accommodate common local dietary staples or allergies?"** 5. **"What is your policy for children who get sick during the day, and which local clinic or pediatrician do you typically contact?"** Also, observe if the outdoor play area is secure and shaded, given South Carolina's heat, and ask about their involvement in local community events or libraries.