The Best Daycare Centers in Johnson City, TN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Johnson City. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Johnson City
The Goddard School of Johnson City
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Johnson City offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social-emotional development with low student-to-teacher ratios. Facilities include secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All teachers are qualified early childhood educators who receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences, with a strong focus on preparing children for kindergarten readiness.
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Primrose School of Johnson City
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Johnson City provides Balanced Learning® curriculum that combines teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a focus on character development and academics. Their approach includes proprietary curriculum materials for literacy, math, science, and social studies, plus specialty classes in music and Spanish. The facility features secure access, monitored classrooms, and age-appropriate playgrounds. Certified teachers implement the curriculum with ongoing training, and the school maintains strong safety protocols including comprehensive background checks. Parents receive regular updates through the Primrose Schools app with photos and developmental milestones.
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Small Wonders Learning Center
Independent
Small Wonders Learning Center is a locally-owned childcare facility serving Johnson City families since 2006 with a comprehensive early education program. Their curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through centers-based activities, incorporating Creative Curriculum with Tennessee Early Learning Standards. The center features secure entry systems, camera monitoring, and age-separated play areas. Qualified early childhood educators provide individualized attention with small class sizes and maintain detailed portfolios tracking each child's development. The center offers nutritious meals and snacks through their in-house food program and maintains strong parent partnerships through regular communication and family events.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Johnson City, TN
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Johnson City, TN?
In Johnson City, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from $150 to $220 per week, while toddler care averages between $130 and $190 per week. These rates can vary based on the type of facility—center-based care tends to be on the higher end, while licensed home-based daycares may be more affordable. Factors like curriculum (e.g., Montessori or faith-based programs), staff-to-child ratios, and included amenities (meals, diapers) also influence pricing. Compared to the Tennessee state average, Johnson City is moderately priced, but it's wise to budget for potential annual increases and inquire about registration or supply fees, which are common at many local centers.
How do I verify a daycare is properly licensed and what are Tennessee's key regulations for Johnson City providers?
All licensed daycare providers in Johnson City must comply with Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) Child Care Licensing standards. You can verify a provider's license status, inspection reports, and any violations online through the TDHS Child Care Agency Search tool. Key regulations include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:7 for 2-year-olds), background checks for all employees, and annual health and safety inspections. Additionally, Johnson City providers must meet local fire and health department codes. Always ask to see a current license during tours and check for any corrective action plans, as this ensures your child is in a safe, regulated environment.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Johnson City, and how can I secure a spot?
Yes, waitlists are common for many daycare centers in Johnson City, especially for infant rooms and highly-rated programs. Popular centers near areas like ETSU or the Medical Center may have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. To secure a spot, start your search early—ideally during pregnancy or 3-6 months before you need care. Contact multiple centers to get on their lists (some may charge a small fee), and follow up periodically to show continued interest. Consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in neighborhoods like Tree Streets or Milligan Highway, as they may have shorter wait times while still offering quality care.
What resources are available in Johnson City to help lower-income families afford childcare?
Johnson City offers several resources to assist families with childcare costs. The Tennessee Department of Human Services administers the Child Care Certificate Program (subsidy) for eligible families based on income, employment, or education requirements. You can apply through the local TDHS office. Additionally, organizations like the United Way of Washington County may provide referrals and support. Some local centers also offer sliding scale fees or scholarships—it's worth asking directly. For parents attending East Tennessee State University (ETSU), check if the university's childcare center or student services offer any financial aid or subsidized spots for student-parents.
What are some key questions to ask during a daycare tour in Johnson City to assess quality?
When touring daycares in Johnson City, ask specific questions to gauge quality and fit. Inquire about staff turnover rates (high turnover can disrupt care), how they handle emergencies or sick children, and their daily communication with parents (many use apps like Brightwheel). Ask to see a sample schedule for your child's age group and how they incorporate learning through play. Given Johnson City's weather, ask about outdoor play areas and backup plans for rainy days. Also, request references from current parents and verify their accreditation status—some local centers are rated through Tennessee's Star-Quality Child Care Program, which indicates higher standards. Finally, observe interactions: are staff engaged and responsive to children?