The Best Daycare Centers in Harrison, TN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Harrison. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Harrison
The Goddard School of Ooltewah
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Ooltewah serves the Harrison area with a premier early childhood education program featuring their proprietary F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience). The curriculum focuses on play-based learning while developing literacy, math, science, and social skills. All lead teachers hold four-year degrees in education or related fields, and the facility maintains low student-to-teacher ratios. The center features secure entry systems, daily cleanliness protocols, and age-appropriate playgrounds. Parents consistently praise the school's communication, engaging curriculum, and nurturing environment that prepares children for kindergarten readiness.
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Primrose School of Ooltewah
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Ooltewah provides Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The research-based curriculum includes literacy development, character development, and STEM activities. The school features secure keypad entry, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and health/safety protocols. Classrooms are designed with learning centers that encourage exploration, and the outdoor spaces include age-appropriate playgrounds. The school emphasizes partnership with parents through regular communication and developmental updates. Their Balanced Learning approach has received strong parent satisfaction for academic preparation and social-emotional development.
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La Petite Academy of Chattanooga
Learning Care Group
La Petite Academy in Chattanooga serves the greater Harrison area with their proprietary Digital Learning Program that integrates technology with hands-on activities. The curriculum focuses on school readiness through literacy-rich environments, math concepts, and scientific exploration. The center maintains state-mandated staff-to-child ratios and employs teachers with early childhood education credentials. Safety features include secured entrances, regular safety drills, and comprehensive cleaning procedures. The facility offers multiple age-specific playgrounds and learning environments. Parents appreciate the consistent communication through their mobile app and the center's focus on developing both academic and social skills.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Harrison, TN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare centers in Harrison, TN, and how can I verify a provider's compliance?
In Harrison, all childcare providers caring for four or more unrelated children must be licensed by the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS). This includes rigorous background checks for all staff, regular health and fire safety inspections, and adherence to specific child-to-staff ratios based on age. 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 check this database, as it shows the license status, any recent violations, and the results of their last inspection. You can also contact the local TDHS licensing office serving Hamilton County for additional verification.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Harrison, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Harrison and the greater Chattanooga area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $180 to $250 per week, while toddler care averages $160 to $220 per week. Costs can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum, and age of the facility. For financial assistance, Tennessee's Child Care Certificate Program (subsidy) is available for eligible families through the TDHS. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's also worth checking with local employers, as some companies in the area, like those in the manufacturing or healthcare sectors, may have partnerships or dependent care assistance plans.
How long are typical waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Harrison, and when should I start looking?
For the most sought-after daycare centers and preschools in Harrison, waitlists can be significant, often ranging from 3 to 9 months, especially for infant classrooms which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. It is strongly advised to begin your search and tour facilities during your second trimester of pregnancy if possible. Many parents in the area put their unborn child on a "pre-birth" waitlist. For toddler or preschool spots, starting your search at least 4-6 months before your needed start date is prudent. Be sure to ask each center about their specific waitlist policy, including any non-refundable deposit to hold a spot.
Are there many in-home daycare options (family childcare homes) in Harrison, and how do I find licensed ones?
Yes, there are licensed family childcare homes (also called Group Homes) operating in residential areas of Harrison. These smaller settings often provide a more home-like environment and can be more flexible with hours. To find licensed family homes, use the same TDHS Child Care Agency Search tool and filter for "Family" or "Group Home" providers by zip code (37341). You can also find recommendations through local parent groups on social media, such as "Harrison, TN Community" or "Chattanooga Moms" Facebook pages. Always ensure any in-home provider you consider is TDHS-licensed, as this guarantees they meet state safety and training standards.
What are some key factors to consider when touring a daycare in Harrison, given the local community and amenities?
When touring daycares in Harrison, consider both universal standards and local context. First, observe cleanliness, staff engagement, and security procedures. Specifically for Harrison, inquire about their outdoor play policy, as many centers have great playgrounds but you'll want to know their schedule for utilizing them. Ask about their emergency preparedness for severe weather common to East Tennessee. Given Harrison's suburban/rural mix, check if they incorporate any nature-based learning. Also, explore their communication methods—many local centers use apps like Brightwheel or Tadpoles to provide daily updates and photos. Finally, ask about their affiliation with local schools, as some preschools have strong connections with Harrison Elementary or other Hamilton County schools for smoother transitions.