The Best Daycare Centers in Cleveland, TN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Cleveland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Cleveland
The Goddard School of Cleveland
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Cleveland offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic readiness, social development, and creative expression. Their play-based curriculum is developed by early childhood education experts and implemented by qualified teachers with degrees in education. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. They maintain low student-to-teacher ratios and provide daily communication with parents through their mobile app. The school emphasizes STEAM learning and character development in a nurturing environment.
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Primrose School of Cleveland
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Cleveland provides Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. Their research-based curriculum focuses on literacy, math, science, social studies, and character development. The school features secure facilities with coded entry systems, age-specific learning environments, and multiple playgrounds. All teachers receive ongoing professional development and follow strict health and safety protocols. The program includes music, art, and physical education components, with regular assessments to track developmental milestones. Parents appreciate the consistent communication and high-quality educational foundation provided.
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Kiddie Academy of Cleveland
Kiddie Academy International, LLC
Kiddie Academy of Cleveland implements the Life Essentials® curriculum that promotes social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development through hands-on learning experiences. Their Character Essentials® program integrates character development into daily activities. The center features modern security systems including electronic entry, camera monitoring, and strict check-in procedures. Certified teachers create engaging learning environments with learning centers for literacy, math, science, and dramatic play. The academy provides nutritious meals and snacks, regular parent-teacher conferences, and detailed progress reports. Their approach emphasizes school readiness while maintaining a warm, family-oriented atmosphere.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Cleveland, TN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Cleveland, TN, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Cleveland, TN, full-time daycare for infants typically ranges from $150 to $220 per week, while toddler care is generally between $130 and $180 per week. These costs can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum, and staff-to-child ratios. For financial assistance, Tennessee's Department of Human Services (DHS) administers the Child Care Certificate Program, which provides subsidies to eligible families based on income, work, or school attendance. Locally, you can apply through the Bradley County DHS office. Additionally, some centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How do I verify that a daycare or childcare provider in Cleveland is properly licensed and what specific Tennessee state regulations should I be aware of?
All licensed childcare providers in Tennessee are regulated by the Department of Human Services (DHS). You can verify a provider's license, view their compliance history, and read any inspection reports by using the "Child Care Provider Search" tool on the Tennessee DHS website. Key state regulations for Cleveland providers include: a staff-to-child ratio of 1:4 for infants (0-12 months), 1:5 for toddlers (12-24 months), and 1:7 for 2-year-olds. All staff must pass background checks and complete annual training in health, safety, and development. Licensed centers are also required to have an approved nutrition program and emergency preparedness plans.
What is the current availability and waitlist situation for daycare centers in Cleveland, especially for infants?
Availability for daycare, particularly for infants (under 1 year), is often limited in Cleveland due to high demand and stricter staff-to-child ratios. It is common for reputable centers to have waitlists ranging from 2 to 6 months, sometimes longer for popular facilities. We recommend starting your search during pregnancy or at least 3-4 months before your needed start date. To improve your chances, consider applying to multiple centers and exploring licensed family daycare homes, which may have shorter waitlists. Regularly following up with centers on your list can also help, as spots can occasionally open up unexpectedly.
Are there any unique childcare options or programs in Cleveland that cater to parents with non-traditional work hours, such as shift workers at local manufacturers or healthcare facilities?
Yes, Cleveland's industrial and healthcare sectors create demand for flexible childcare. While traditional centers typically operate 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM, options for non-traditional hours are more limited. Some licensed family daycare homes may offer evening or weekend care by arrangement. The best resource is "The Family Cornerstone," a local childcare resource and referral agency that maintains a list of providers offering flexible hours. Additionally, larger employers in the area, such as Whirlpool, McKee Foods, or Tennova Healthcare-Cleveland, may have partnerships or recommendations for shift-friendly care. It's crucial to inquire directly about hours and potential extra fees for care outside standard times.
What resources are available in Cleveland to help me find and evaluate quality childcare, beyond just an online search?
Cleveland and Bradley County offer several local resources. The primary agency is "The Family Cornerstone," which provides free, personalized referrals, parenting resources, and guidance on evaluating quality. They can be contacted via their website or by phone. You can also attend local events like the "Bradley County Early Childhood Fair," typically held in the spring, where you can meet multiple providers. For hands-on evaluation, always schedule tours and ask for references from current parents. Look for signs of quality like Tennessee's voluntary "Star-Quality Child Care Program" ratings, which assess learning environments and professional development beyond basic licensing. The Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce may also have information on established childcare businesses.