The Best Daycare Centers in Hurricane Mills, TN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Hurricane Mills. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Hurricane Mills
KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education
KinderCare in Dickson is a highly-rated center known for its balanced educational approach using the Early Foundations curriculum, which emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. Staff members are credentialed with CPR and First Aid certifications, and the center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios for personalized attention. Safety features include secured entry systems and regular health screenings. Parents praise the engaging learning environments, nutritious meal programs, and strong communication through daily updates. The facility offers spacious indoor and outdoor play areas designed for age-appropriate activities, making it a trusted choice for families in the Hurricane Mills area.
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The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Columbia provides a play-based learning curriculum focused on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) and literacy, fostering creativity and critical thinking. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and participate in ongoing professional development. The center features secure facilities with keypad entry, clean and organized classrooms, and fenced outdoor playgrounds. Highlights include a focus on individualized learning plans, regular parent-teacher conferences, and enrichment activities like music and yoga. With a reputation for excellence in staff qualifications and child development outcomes, it serves as a reliable option for Hurricane Mills residents seeking high-quality childcare.
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Waverly Child Development Center
Independent
Waverly Child Development Center offers a nurturing environment with a curriculum that blends structured learning and play, emphasizing social skills, language development, and kindergarten readiness. Staff are trained in early childhood best practices and maintain small class sizes for individualized care. Safety is prioritized through monitored access, emergency drills, and hygienic practices. The center is commended for its inclusive atmosphere, healthy snack programs, and strong community ties. Parents value the consistent communication and developmental progress reports, making it a top local choice for families in and around Hurricane Mills.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Hurricane Mills, TN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Hurricane Mills, TN, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Hurricane Mills, as in all of Tennessee, childcare providers must be licensed by the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) if they care for more than four unrelated children. Licensed facilities must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, health and safety training, facility safety, and curriculum. To verify a provider's license, you can use the TDHS Child Care Agency Search tool online. It's highly recommended to only consider licensed providers, as this ensures a baseline of safety and oversight. You can also contact the local TDHS office serving Humphreys County for additional verification.
How much does full-time daycare typically cost for an infant or toddler in Hurricane Mills, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Hurricane Mills and greater Humphreys County area, full-time daycare for an infant can range from approximately $120 to $180 per week, while toddler care may be slightly less, around $110 to $160 per week. These costs can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and age of the child. For financial assistance, Tennessee offers the Child Care Certificate Program (subsidy) for eligible families, administered through the TDHS. Additionally, local organizations or churches in the Hurricane Mills/Waverly area may offer limited scholarships or sliding-scale fees. It's crucial to inquire directly with providers about their rates and any available assistance.
Given Hurricane Mills's rural location, what types of childcare options are most commonly available, and are waitlists a significant issue?
Due to its rural setting, Hurricane Mills itself has a limited number of dedicated daycare centers. Parents often find care through licensed family home daycares (caring for smaller groups in a provider's home) or may need to look at providers in nearby Waverly (about 10 miles away), which offers more center-based options. Because options are fewer, waitlists can be a real concern, especially for infant care slots. It's advisable to begin your search at least 3-6 months before you need care. Networking with other local parents through community groups or social media can also help uncover lesser-known home-based providers.
What should I look for in a daycare that is specific to the lifestyle and environment of Hurricane Mills, TN?
When evaluating daycares in the Hurricane Mills area, consider providers that embrace the rural, outdoor lifestyle. Look for facilities with secure outdoor play areas that allow for nature-based activities, which are abundant in this region. Inquire about their policies for weather-related closures or delays, as rural roads can be impacted. Also, consider the provider's community connections—those involved in local events or who have relationships with other Humphreys County resources (like the library or parks) can offer a more integrated experience for your child. Finally, ensure they have a clear plan for emergencies, given the distance to major hospitals.
Are there any state-funded pre-kindergarten programs available for 4-year-olds in the Hurricane Mills area?
Yes, Tennessee's Voluntary Pre-K (VPK) program is available for eligible 4-year-olds. In the Hurricane Mills area, these programs are typically housed within the Humphreys County School System. The nearest elementary school serving the area is Waverly Elementary School, which may host a VPK classroom. Enrollment is based on age and income eligibility, and spaces are limited. It's important to contact the Humphreys County Schools administrative office or the specific school directly in the spring prior to the fall enrollment period to get information on application timelines, eligibility requirements, and available slots, as transportation from Hurricane Mills may be a consideration.
Nearby Cities
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