The Best Daycare Centers in Morristown, TN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Morristown. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Morristown
The Goddard School of Morristown
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Morristown offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. Their curriculum includes STEAM learning, sign language for infants and toddlers, and kindergarten readiness programs. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and classrooms equipped with modern learning materials. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes play-based learning while maintaining structured educational activities tailored to each child's developmental stage.
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Kiddie Kottage Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Kottage Learning Center provides comprehensive childcare services with a strong emphasis on early literacy and social development. Their curriculum includes hands-on learning activities, phonics instruction, and character development programs. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and employs experienced early childhood educators who create nurturing, stimulating environments. Safety features include secure entry systems, regular safety drills, and comprehensive background checks for all staff. The facility offers both indoor and outdoor learning spaces with age-appropriate equipment and materials that encourage exploration and creativity.
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First Baptist Church Preschool
First Baptist Church of Morristown
First Baptist Church Preschool offers a Christian-based early childhood education program that balances spiritual development with academic preparation. Their curriculum incorporates Bible stories, prayer, and Christian values while providing strong foundation in literacy, mathematics, and social skills. The program focuses on kindergarten readiness through structured learning centers, group activities, and individual instruction. The facility features bright, clean classrooms, secure playground areas, and dedicated spaces for music and movement. Teachers are certified in early childhood education and receive ongoing training in child development best practices. The preschool maintains an excellent safety record with secure check-in procedures and regular facility inspections.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Morristown, TN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Morristown, TN?
In Morristown, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For infants (6 weeks to 18 months), you can expect to pay between $140 and $180 per week at licensed daycare centers. For toddlers (18 months to 3 years), weekly rates typically range from $130 to $165. In-home daycare providers may offer slightly lower rates, often between $110 and $150 per week. These costs are generally lower than in larger Tennessee cities like Knoxville or Nashville. It's important to note that many facilities charge registration or supply fees annually. Financial assistance may be available through the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) Child Care Payment Assistance program for qualifying families.
How do I verify that a daycare in Morristown is properly licensed and what should I look for during a tour?
All licensed childcare providers in Morristown are regulated by the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS). You can verify a facility's license, view inspection reports, and check for any serious violations by using the TDHS Child Care Agency Search tool online. During an in-person tour, look for clear evidence of the license posted, ask about staff-to-child ratios (TN requires 1:4 for infants, 1:5 for toddlers, and 1:7 for 2-year-olds), and observe the overall safety and cleanliness. Specifically in Morristown, ask about their emergency plans for severe weather common to East Tennessee and their policies on outdoor play given the local parks and greenways. A reputable center will readily provide references from current parents.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Morristown, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Waitlist times in Morristown can vary significantly. For the most sought-after centers, especially those associated with major employers or with excellent reputations, waitlists for infant rooms can be 6 to 9 months long. For toddler and preschool slots, 3 to 6 months is common. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists as soon as you know you will need care, ideally during pregnancy for an infant spot. To improve your chances, consider applying to multiple facilities and exploring both center-based and licensed in-home options. Some centers in areas like West Morris Boulevard or near Walters State Community College may have shorter waitlists than those in high-density residential neighborhoods.
What are some of the unique enrichment or educational programs offered by daycares in the Morristown area?
Many Morristown daycares incorporate programs that reflect the local community and environment. It's common to find centers with " Tennessee-themed" learning activities, introducing children to state symbols and history. Given the area's strong agricultural presence, some facilities have small garden plots for children to learn about planting. Others may incorporate music and movement programs or introductory Spanish. Several centers partner with the Morristown-Hamblen Library System for storytime visits. For preschool-aged children, look for programs that emphasize kindergarten readiness aligned with Tennessee's Early Learning Developmental Standards (TN-ELDS), which focus on the skills needed for Hamblen County schools.
What options are available for backup or occasional childcare in Morristown if my regular provider is closed or my child is mildly ill?
Finding backup care in Morristown can be challenging but there are a few local options. Some licensed daycare centers offer drop-in care on a space-available basis, though this is not widespread. Your best bet is to network with other parents in your facility to arrange informal swaps. Additionally, you can search for qualified babysitters through local community boards at Walters State Community College, as many early childhood education students seek part-time work. For children with mild, non-contagious illnesses, a very limited number of in-home providers may offer "sick child" care, but most standard centers have strict exclusion policies. Planning ahead with a trusted family member, neighbor, or a vetted sitter is the most reliable strategy for this community.
Childcare Insights for Morristown
If you're a parent in Morristown, Tennessee, typing "daycare prices near me" into a search bar, you're likely feeling that familiar mix of hope and anxiety. Finding the right childcare is one of the most significant decisions for your family, and understanding the local cost landscape is the crucial first step. Here in Morristown, daycare prices can vary widely based on several key factors, and having a clear picture of what to expect can help you navigate your options with more confidence.
Generally, for Morristown and the surrounding Hamblen County area, you can expect to encounter a range of pricing that reflects the type of care you're seeking. For a standard, licensed daycare center, weekly rates for full-time infant care often fall between $150 and $200. As children grow into the toddler and preschool age groups, those rates typically decrease slightly, often ranging from $130 to $180 per week. It's important to note that these are averages, and some centers, particularly those with specialized curricula or newer facilities, may charge at the higher end of this spectrum or slightly above. In-home daycare providers, which can offer a smaller, more home-like setting, may sometimes present a more budget-friendly option, with weekly fees potentially starting closer to $100 to $140 for full-time care. These providers are also required to be licensed in Tennessee, which ensures they meet health, safety, and capacity standards.
Beyond the basic age bracket, several elements specifically influence costs right here in our community. One major factor is the program's structure and offerings. Daycares that incorporate a formal preschool curriculum, such as those aligned with pre-K learning standards, often have associated costs. Similarly, centers that provide meals, snacks, and specialized enrichment activities like music or foreign language exposure will typically reflect those conveniences in their pricing. Another local consideration is the part-time versus full-time schedule. While many Morristown parents require full-week care, some centers offer partial-week options, which can provide meaningful savings if your work schedule allows for it. Always ask if the quoted weekly price includes all necessities, or if there are additional fees for registration, supplies, or late pick-ups.
Your search in Morristown should always balance cost with the essential pillars of quality and peace of mind. Tennessee’s Department of Human Services website allows you to verify a facility’s license status and review any history of inspections, which is a vital, free resource. When you visit a potential daycare, either here in town or in nearby communities like Russellville or Whitesburg, trust your instincts. Observe how caregivers interact with the children, assess the cleanliness and safety of the environment, and ask detailed questions about daily routines and staff qualifications. Sometimes, paying a bit more for a place where you feel completely secure and where your child thrives is the most valuable investment you can make. Remember to inquire about potential waitlists, as quality programs in our area can fill up quickly. Taking the time to research, visit, and compare will ultimately lead you to the best fit for your family’s needs and budget right here in Morristown.