The Best Daycare Centers in Benton, TN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Benton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Benton
Polk County Head Start
Southeast Tennessee Human Resource Agency
Polk County Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education and development services for low-income families in the Benton area. The center follows the Head Start curriculum framework focusing on school readiness, social-emotional development, and cognitive skills. All teachers meet Tennessee early childhood education requirements and receive ongoing professional development. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play areas, and provides nutritious meals and snacks. What makes this center stand out is its family-centered approach, offering parent education, health screenings, and comprehensive support services for the whole family.
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Kiddie Academy of Cleveland
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Cleveland serves families throughout the region including Benton with their Life Essentials® curriculum that balances education and play. The center features secure entry systems, certified teachers with early childhood credentials, and age-appropriate learning environments. Their educational approach focuses on character development, literacy, STEM activities, and social skills. The facility includes modern classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and technology-integrated learning spaces. What makes this center exceptional is their comprehensive safety protocols, daily communication with parents through their mobile app, and strong emphasis on preparing children for kindergarten success.
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First Baptist Church CDC
First Baptist Church of Cleveland
First Baptist Church Child Development Center provides quality Christian-based early childhood education serving families in Cleveland and surrounding areas including Benton. The center offers a balanced curriculum that incorporates academic readiness, biblical principles, and social development. All teachers are CPR/First Aid certified and meet Tennessee childcare licensing requirements. The facility features secure classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and a nurturing environment. What distinguishes this center is their faith-based approach to character development, small class sizes with low student-teacher ratios, and strong community involvement while maintaining high educational standards.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Benton, TN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Benton, Tennessee, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Benton, Tennessee, all childcare facilities caring for more than four unrelated children must be licensed by the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS). This licensing ensures compliance with state regulations on staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, health and safety standards, and facility inspections. To verify the license status of a daycare in Benton, you can use the TDHS Child Care Agency Search tool online. It's highly recommended to look for providers with a "3-Star" rating in Tennessee's Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS), which indicates they exceed minimum licensing standards. You can also contact the local TDHS office serving Polk County for additional verification.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Benton, TN?
The cost of daycare in Benton and the surrounding Polk County area is generally more affordable than in larger Tennessee cities, but it varies by provider type. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay an average of $120 to $160 per week for full-time care for an infant or toddler. In-home family daycare providers may range from $100 to $140 per week. These rates are estimates, and factors like the facility's star rating, specific programs offered, and included meals can affect the price. It's important to ask what the weekly fee includes (diapers, wipes, formula, meals) and if there are any registration or annual supply fees.
Are there any state or local programs in Benton that help with childcare costs for qualifying families?
Yes, eligible families in Benton can apply for assistance through Tennessee's Child Care Certificate Program, administered by the TDHS. This program provides subsidies to help low-income working families, those in job training, or parents pursuing education afford licensed childcare. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. You can apply online through the TDHS website or in person at the Human Services office serving Polk County. Additionally, some local churches or community organizations in the Benton area may offer limited scholarships or sliding-scale fees, so it's worth inquiring directly with providers.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Benton, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Benton, waitlists for the most sought-after licensed centers and highly-rated family daycares can be several months long, especially for infant care. It is advisable to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy or 6-9 months before your needed start date. When contacting providers, ask specific questions about their waitlist: Is there a fee to join? How often is it updated? What is the typical wait time for my child's age group? Consider expanding your search to nearby communities like Cleveland or Etowah for more options, but factor in the commute. Being flexible on your start date can also improve your chances.
What are some key questions to ask when touring a daycare facility in Benton, specifically related to local safety and activities?
Beyond general questions, tailor your inquiry to the local context. For safety, ask about their severe weather and tornado drill procedures, given East Tennessee's climate. Inquire about their outdoor play policy on high-pollen days, relevant for children with allergies. Ask how they incorporate local culture—do they take walks to the Polk County Courthouse square or discuss the nearby Ocoee River? For staffing, confirm that all caregivers have current Pediatric First Aid/CPR certification, which is a Tennessee requirement. Also, ask about their policy on school closures (e.g., for Polk County Schools) and if they provide care on those days. Finally, request references from other Benton-area parents to get firsthand community feedback.