The Best Daycare Centers in Brush Creek, TN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Brush Creek. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Brush Creek
Primrose School of Mt. Juliet
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Mt. Juliet offers a nationally accredited Balanced Learning® curriculum that blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The school features age-appropriate learning environments, secure entry systems, and certified early childhood educators. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, math, science, social studies, and character development, with daily Spanish lessons and music enrichment. The facility includes dedicated playgrounds for different age groups and provides nutritious meals prepared on-site. Parents consistently praise the school's communication, structured learning environment, and caring staff.
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The Goddard School of Mt. Juliet
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Mt. Juliet provides a play-based learning approach through their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program, developed by early childhood education experts. The school features state-licensed teachers with degrees in education, secure keypad entry, and live streaming cameras for parent viewing. Their curriculum emphasizes STEAM learning, literacy development, and social-emotional skills. The facility includes modern classrooms, indoor gym, and age-specific playgrounds. The school maintains low student-teacher ratios and offers enrichment programs including yoga, music, and foreign language exposure.
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Kiddie Academy of Lebanon
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Lebanon offers the Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, STEM education, and school readiness. The center features degreed early childhood educators, comprehensive security systems including secured entry, and regular safety drills. Their program includes technology-enhanced learning, hands-on science activities, and community awareness projects. The facility provides nutritious meals through their included meal program and maintains clean, well-organized classrooms with educational technology. Parents highlight the center's structured daily routine, excellent communication through their mobile app, and the staff's dedication to each child's individual development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Brush Creek, TN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Brush Creek, TN, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Brush Creek, as in all of Tennessee, childcare facilities must be licensed by the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS). This includes family homes caring for 5-12 children and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet standards for staff-to-child ratios, background checks, health and safety training, facility safety, and nutrition. To verify a provider's license and view any inspection reports, you can use the TDHS Child Care Agency Search tool online. It's highly recommended to check this database and look for a current "License" status rather than a "Certificate of Approval," which has different requirements. You can also contact the local TDHS office serving Smith County for additional guidance.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Brush Creek, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Brush Creek and greater Smith County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $120 to $160 per week, while toddler care may be slightly lower, around $110 to $140 per week. These costs can vary based on the type of facility (center vs. home-based) and the specific services offered. For financial assistance, Tennessee's Child Care Certificate Program (subsidy) is available for eligible families based on income, work, or school attendance. You apply through the TDHS. Additionally, it's worth inquiring directly with local providers, as some may offer sibling discounts or have partnerships with local employers or community organizations.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in the Brush Creek area, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Brush Creek, waitlists for the most sought-after centers or licensed home providers can be significant, often ranging from 3 to 9 months, especially for infant care. To improve your chances, start your search early—ideally during pregnancy. Contact multiple providers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee. Stay in regular, polite contact (every 4-6 weeks) to express continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to nearby towns like Carthage, Gordonsville, or Lebanon, which may have more facilities but will involve a commute.
Are there any unique childcare options in Brush Creek, such as faith-based preschools or part-time programs for agricultural families?
Yes, Brush Creek's community context offers some specific options. Several local churches operate faith-based preschool or Mother's Day Out programs, which often provide part-time care (e.g., 2-3 days a week) and can be more affordable. These are popular for socialization before kindergarten. Furthermore, understanding the area's agricultural base, some in-home providers may offer more flexible hours to accommodate farming families' seasonal schedules. It's important to ask providers directly about flexibility for early drop-off or late pickup. The Smith County UT Extension office might also have resources or referrals for families involved in agriculture.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare in Brush Creek, given the rural setting?
During a tour, beyond standard checks for cleanliness and engaged children, consider factors specific to a rural area. Ask about their outdoor play space and safety protocols, given the potential for proximity to roads or agricultural land. Inquire about their plan for emergencies and severe weather, including tornado procedures and how they handle potential power outages, which can be more common. Check their policy on illness, given that pediatrician offices may be a drive away. Also, ask about their community involvement—do they take children on local outings (e.g., to the Brush Creek Post Office or library)? A strong connection to the tight-knit community is often a positive sign of a quality, trusted provider.