The Best Daycare Centers in Hampton, TN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Hampton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Hampton
First Baptist Church Child Development Center
First Baptist Church of Elizabethton
First Baptist Church Child Development Center provides comprehensive early childhood education with a Christian foundation. The center offers age-appropriate developmental programs for infants through pre-K, featuring a structured curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math readiness, and social skills. Their experienced teaching staff maintains low child-to-teacher ratios and holds early childhood education credentials. The facility includes secure classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and a nurturing environment. They provide nutritious meals and snacks while focusing on character development and school readiness. The center is known for its strong community involvement and family-oriented approach to childcare.
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Little Shepherd Christian Day School
Little Shepherd Christian Day School
Little Shepherd Christian Day School offers a Christ-centered educational environment with a comprehensive early learning curriculum. Their program integrates biblical principles with developmentally appropriate academic instruction, including phonics-based reading readiness, hands-on math activities, and STEM exploration. The center features certified early childhood educators who provide individualized attention through small class sizes. Safety is prioritized with secure entry systems, regular safety drills, and comprehensive background checks for all staff. The facility includes modern classrooms, dedicated nap areas, and outdoor play spaces designed for different age groups. Parents appreciate the strong communication and family engagement opportunities.
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Kiddie Kottage Learning Center
Kiddie Kottage Learning Center
Kiddie Kottage Learning Center provides a well-established early childhood education program with a focus on school readiness and whole-child development. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum elements with hands-on learning experiences in literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies. The center maintains state-compliant teacher-to-child ratios with qualified staff holding degrees in early childhood education. The facility features age-separated classrooms, computer learning stations for older children, and secure outdoor play areas. They offer extended hours to accommodate working parents and provide transportation for school-age children. The center is recognized for its comprehensive safety protocols, including video monitoring and strict pickup procedures.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Hampton, TN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Hampton, TN, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Hampton, Tennessee, all childcare facilities caring for more than four children must be licensed by the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS). Licensed providers must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, health and safety inspections, staff training (including CPR and First Aid), and facility safety. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use 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 Hampton's smaller size, many home-based providers may operate legally under the "Family Home" category, which also requires registration and oversight.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Hampton, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Hampton and the surrounding Carter County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $120 to $180 per week, while toddler care may be slightly lower, around $110 to $160 per week. These costs are generally below the state average due to the rural nature of the region. For financial assistance, Tennessee offers the Child Care Certificate Program (subsidy) for eligible families, administered locally through the Upper East Tennessee Human Development Agency (UETHDA). Additionally, some local churches or community organizations may offer sliding scale fees or limited scholarships. It's crucial to apply for assistance early, as funding can be limited and waitlists may exist.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Hampton, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the limited number of licensed daycare centers in Hampton itself, waitlists can vary significantly. For the most sought-after centers, especially those serving infants, waitlists of 3 to 9 months are not uncommon. Many families in Hampton also utilize providers in nearby Elizabethton or Johnson City, which may have different availability. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as soon as you know you will need care, ideally during pregnancy or at least 6 months in advance. Be sure to ask about any non-refundable waitlist fees and how often you need to confirm your continued interest to stay on the list.
Are there any unique outdoor or nature-based childcare programs available in the Hampton area?
Hampton's location near the Cherokee National Forest and Watauga Lake offers a unique setting for nature-focused childcare. While formal, licensed "forest schools" are rare, several home-based providers and smaller centers emphasize outdoor play and exploration as a core part of their curriculum. You may find programs that incorporate gardening, local nature walks, and outdoor learning activities. When touring facilities, ask specifically about their daily outdoor time, playground safety, and how they utilize the natural environment. Some family childcare homes with large, fenced properties may offer a more rustic, outdoor-centric experience than a traditional center.
What options exist for before and after-school care for school-age children in Hampton?
For school-age children attending Hampton Elementary or other local schools, the primary option is often the school's own extended care program, if available. The Hampton School District may offer a program on-site. Additionally, some local daycare centers and licensed home providers offer before and after-school care, providing transportation to and from school. Given the community's size, many families also rely on informal networks or part-time babysitters. It's important to inquire about transportation logistics, snack provisions, homework help, and activity schedules. Registration for these programs often fills quickly at the start of the school year, so contact providers the prior spring or summer.
Nearby Cities
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