The Best Daycare Centers in Belfast, TN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Belfast. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Belfast
Belfast Head Start
Mid-Cumberland Community Action Agency
Belfast Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education and development services for low-income families in Marshall County. The center follows the Head Start performance standards with a focus on school readiness, offering evidence-based curriculum that addresses cognitive, social-emotional, and physical development. Qualified early childhood educators maintain low teacher-to-child ratios, and the program includes health screenings, nutritious meals, and family engagement services. The center stands out for its holistic approach to child development and strong community partnerships.
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Kiddie Academy of Shelbyville
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Shelbyville serves families throughout Bedford County and surrounding areas including Belfast. The center utilizes their proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and creative arts. Certified teachers with early childhood education degrees provide individualized attention in age-appropriate classrooms equipped with modern learning materials. The facility features secure entry systems, comprehensive safety protocols, and spacious outdoor play areas. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, educational quality, and nurturing environment.
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Primrose School of Fayetteville
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Fayetteville is a nationally accredited early education provider serving Lincoln County and surrounding communities including Belfast. The school implements the Balanced Learning® curriculum, blending teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a strong emphasis on character development and literacy. Highly qualified early childhood educators maintain small class sizes with excellent teacher-to-child ratios. The state-of-the-art facility includes secure classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers for music, art, and technology. The school is renowned for its structured academic preparation and comprehensive safety measures.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Belfast, TN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Belfast, TN, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Belfast, Tennessee, all childcare providers caring for more than four unrelated children must be licensed by the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS). This license ensures the facility meets state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, and ongoing training. You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any violations by using the TDHS Child Care Agency Search tool online. It's highly recommended to visit any facility in person and ask to see their current license, which should be posted. Given Belfast's smaller, rural setting, many home-based providers (also known as family childcare homes) are popular options and must adhere to the same licensing standards if they care for five or more children.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Belfast, TN?
In Belfast and the surrounding Marshall County area, daycare costs are generally lower than in major Tennessee cities like Nashville, but can vary based on the type of care. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay approximately $120 to $160 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. Licensed family childcare homes may range from $100 to $140 per week. These rates are estimates, and it's important to ask what is included (meals, snacks, curriculum, etc.). For financial assistance, Tennessee offers the Child Care Certificate Program (subsidy) for eligible families, administered through the TDHS. You can apply through the Marshall County TDHS office.
Are there any state-funded pre-K programs available for 4-year-olds in Belfast, and how do I apply?
Yes, Tennessee's Voluntary Pre-K (VPK) program is available for eligible 4-year-olds. In Belfast, this program is typically administered through the Marshall County School District. The program is free for qualifying families and focuses on school readiness. Eligibility is based on family income, but some slots may be available for at-risk children regardless of income. To apply, you should contact the Marshall County Board of Education directly or the specific elementary school (like Belfast Elementary) to inquire about availability, application windows, and required documentation, which usually includes proof of income, residency, and the child's age.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Belfast, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the limited number of licensed facilities in a smaller community like Belfast, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care. Wait times can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the time of year and the age of your child. To improve your chances, it's advisable to begin your search and get on multiple lists as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. When contacting providers, ask specific questions about their list: Is there a fee to join? How often do they update families? Do they offer part-time spots that might become available sooner? Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family homes in the Belfast area and nearby towns like Lewisburg.
What local resources or organizations in Belfast can help me find and evaluate childcare options?
A primary resource is the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for your region, which is a service of the Tennessee Department of Human Services. While not based in Belfast, they serve Marshall County and can provide free referrals to licensed providers, information on quality indicators, and guidance on financial assistance. You can contact them via the statewide phone line or website. Locally, you can also consult with the Marshall County Health Department for health and safety insights, and connect with other parents through community hubs like the Belfast Post Office, churches, or the Marshall County Public Library branch for personal recommendations and experiences with local providers.