The Best Daycare Centers in Lexington, TN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lexington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lexington
Little Blessings Daycare & Learning Center
Independent
Little Blessings is a locally-owned Christian-based daycare that has served Lexington families for over 15 years. They offer a comprehensive early childhood education program with age-appropriate curriculum including phonics, math readiness, and social development. The center features low student-teacher ratios, certified early childhood educators, and a secure facility with monitored access. Their program emphasizes both academic preparation and character development, with outdoor play areas, nutritious meals, and regular parent communication. The center is known for its warm, family-like atmosphere and experienced staff with low turnover rates.
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Kiddie Academy of Henderson
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Henderson serves the broader Lexington area with their nationally-recognized Life Essentials curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and creative arts. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems, certified teachers with early childhood degrees, and modern learning environments. Their program includes technology integration, foreign language exposure, and structured physical activities. The academy maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios and provides detailed progress reports to parents. Many Lexington families commute to this facility for its comprehensive educational approach and strong safety record.
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First United Methodist Church Preschool
First United Methodist Church of Lexington
Operating within the historic First United Methodist Church, this preschool has been a cornerstone of early childhood education in Lexington for nearly two decades. The program focuses on play-based learning with structured academic components, including literacy development, number concepts, and social skills. The facility features bright, spacious classrooms, a secure playground, and experienced teachers with background-checked credentials. The preschool emphasizes Christian values while welcoming children of all faiths, and maintains small class sizes for individualized attention. Their reputation for preparing children for kindergarten success has made them a trusted choice among Lexington families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lexington, TN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Lexington, TN, and how can I verify a facility's compliance?
In Lexington and throughout Tennessee, childcare facilities are licensed and monitored by the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS). Licensed providers must meet specific standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training in CPR/First Aid), health and safety procedures, and facility requirements. To verify a daycare's license and compliance history, you can use the TDHS Child Care Provider Search tool online. This resource allows you to see the facility's license status, any reported violations, and their star rating from Tennessee's Quality Rating and Improvement System (TQRIS). It's highly recommended to check this database and ask the provider directly for their most recent licensing report.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Lexington, TN?
The cost of childcare in Lexington is generally more affordable than in larger metropolitan areas in Tennessee, but it varies by the type of care. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay an average of **$120 to $180 per week** for full-time infant or toddler care. In-home family daycare providers may offer slightly lower rates, typically ranging from **$100 to $150 per week**. These are estimates, and prices can differ based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and age of the child. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate (e.g., meals, diapers, formula) and if there are any registration or supply fees.
Are there any state or local programs in Lexington that help with childcare costs for working families?
Yes, eligible families in Lexington can apply for assistance through the Tennessee Child Care Payment Assistance Program (CCPAP), administered by TDHS. This program provides subsidies to help low-income working families, those in job training, or parents attending school afford licensed childcare. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. You can apply online through the TDHS website or contact the DHS office serving Henderson County for local assistance. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth inquiring directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Lexington, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to limited options in a smaller city like Lexington, waitlists for infant rooms at highly-regarded daycare centers can be several months long, especially for infants under 1 year old. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists **during pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before you need care**. When contacting centers, ask specific questions about their waitlist process: Is there a fee to join? How often should you check in? Do they prioritize siblings of current families? Exploring multiple options, including licensed family home daycares, which may have shorter wait times, can increase your chances of finding timely care.
What are some key questions to ask when touring a daycare facility in Lexington, specifically related to local community and safety?
Beyond standard questions, tailor your visit to local considerations. Ask about their **emergency preparedness plans for severe weather common to West Tennessee**, such as tornadoes. Inquire if staff are trained in pediatric first aid for issues like tick bites, given the rural surroundings. Ask about their policy on local field trips (e.g., to the Lexington-Henderson County Library or local parks) and daily outdoor play. It's also crucial to ask about their communication with parents and how they handle closures for local events or inclement weather. Finally, request contact information for current local parent references to get firsthand feedback about their experience in the community.