The Best Daycare Centers in Lebanon, TN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lebanon. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lebanon
Primrose School of Mt. Juliet
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Mt. Juliet offers a nationally accredited Balanced Learning® curriculum that combines teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. Their approach focuses on character development, literacy, math, science, and social studies through hands-on learning. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and certified teachers with early childhood education credentials. They emphasize whole-child development with music, art, and physical education programs, plus nutritious meals prepared on-site. Located just minutes from Lebanon, they serve families throughout Wilson County with flexible scheduling options.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Lebanon
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Lebanon provides a play-based learning curriculum called F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) that promotes social, emotional, and academic development. Their state-licensed teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The facility includes secure keypad entry, video monitoring, and dedicated learning centers for STEM, art, and literacy. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and offer enrichment programs including yoga, Spanish, and music. The school focuses on school readiness while nurturing each child's individual development through structured play and exploration.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Academy of Lebanon
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Lebanon implements the Life Essentials® curriculum that integrates character development, technology, and hands-on learning experiences. Their program emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills through project-based learning. The center features secure electronic entry, real-time communication with parents through the mobile app, and age-appropriate learning environments. Staff members are CPR and first aid certified with ongoing training in child development. They provide healthy meals and snacks while focusing on creating a nurturing environment that supports each child's cognitive, physical, and emotional growth.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lebanon, TN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Lebanon, TN, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Lebanon, TN, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For an infant, you can expect to pay between $150 to $200 per week at a licensed daycare center. For toddlers and preschoolers, weekly rates typically range from $120 to $170. In-home daycare providers may offer slightly lower rates. It's important to note that these are estimates, and prices can vary. For financial assistance, Tennessee offers the Child Care Certificate Program through the Department of Human Services (DHS), which provides subsidies to eligible families based on income and need. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. We recommend contacting the Wilson County DHS office or checking the Tennessee Child Care Resource and Referral Network for the most current information on assistance and provider-specific pricing.
How do I verify that a daycare or preschool in Lebanon is properly licensed and what are Tennessee's key safety regulations?
All childcare providers in Lebanon caring for more than four children must be licensed by the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS). You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any violations by using the online "Child Care Agency Search" tool on the TDHS website. Key state regulations include mandatory background checks for all staff, specific staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:9 for 3-year-olds), annual health and fire safety inspections, and required training in CPR, First Aid, and child development. Many quality providers in Lebanon also voluntarily pursue higher standards through accreditation programs like the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Always ask to see the facility's current license during your tour.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Lebanon, and when should I start looking for a spot, especially for an infant?
Yes, waitlists are very common, particularly for infant care slots in Lebanon due to high demand and limited availability. For popular centers and in-home providers, waitlists can be several months long. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin researching and touring facilities during their second trimester. To secure an infant spot, you should aim to get on a waitlist 6 to 12 months before your needed start date. For toddler or preschool openings, starting your search 3-6 months in advance is advisable. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $25-$75) and to check in periodically with the center to express your continued interest.
What are the main types of childcare options available to parents in Lebanon, beyond traditional daycare centers?
Lebanon offers a variety of childcare options to suit different family needs. These include: 1. **Licensed Childcare Centers:** Often associated with churches, schools, or private businesses, offering structured programs for various age groups. 2. **Family Home Care:** Licensed providers caring for a smaller group of children in their own homes, often providing a more intimate setting. 3. **Faith-Based Preschools:** Many local churches offer part-day preschool programs with a curriculum that may include religious education. 4. **Employer-Sponsored Care:** While less common, it's worth inquiring with larger local employers like Cumberland University or major manufacturers. 5. **Nanny Shares or In-Home Care:** Arrangements where families hire a caregiver or share a nanny's services, which can be found through local parent networks or online services. Exploring local Facebook groups like "Lebanon, TN Moms" or the "Wilson County, TN Community" page can be a great way to discover and get personal recommendations for these options.
What curriculum or early learning philosophies are commonly found in Lebanon daycare and preschool programs?
Daycares and preschools in Lebanon typically employ a mix of play-based and structured learning approaches to prepare children for kindergarten. Common curricula and philosophies include: * **Play-Based Learning:** Emphasizes learning through guided play, social interaction, and exploration, which is foundational in many local programs. * **Creative Curriculum:** A widely used, research-based framework focusing on project-based investigations and development in key learning domains. * **Faith-Based Curricula:** In programs affiliated with churches, you may find curricula that integrate Bible stories and Christian values alongside academic readiness. * **Montessori or Montessori-Inspired Methods:** A few providers may offer child-led learning in prepared environments, though full Montessori schools are less common in Lebanon proper. * **Tennessee Early Learning Developmental Standards (TN-ELDS):** Most quality programs align their activities with these state standards for early childhood education. When touring, ask specifically about their daily schedule, how they incorporate literacy and math, and their policy on screen time to understand their educational approach.