The Best Daycare Centers in Mount Juliet, TN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Mount Juliet. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Mount Juliet
Primrose School of Mount Juliet
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Mount Juliet offers a balanced learning approach through their exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum, combining teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. The school features highly qualified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development, secure entry systems with keypad access, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their curriculum focuses on character development, literacy, math, science, and social skills through hands-on learning experiences. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, and modern classrooms with engaging learning materials. Parents consistently praise the school's communication, structured environment, and the developmental progress they observe in their children.
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The Goddard School of Mount Juliet
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Mount Juliet provides a play-based learning environment with F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios. The facility includes secure entry systems, daily health checks, and comprehensive safety procedures. Their curriculum incorporates STEAM learning, language development, and social skills through structured play and guided activities. The school offers nutritious meals and snacks, spacious indoor play areas, and age-appropriate outdoor playgrounds. Parents frequently mention the caring staff, clean facility, and excellent preparation for kindergarten.
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The Learning Experience - Mount Juliet
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Mount Juliet features their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that combines academic preparation with social skills development. The center specializes in early phonics, foreign language introduction (Spanish), and manners program. All classrooms are equipped with security cameras, and the facility has strict check-in/check-out procedures with biometric scanning. The teaching staff includes certified early childhood educators with ongoing training in child development best practices. The facility offers modern classrooms, interactive learning centers, and safe outdoor play spaces designed for different age groups. Parent reviews consistently highlight the engaging curriculum, professional staff, and the visible academic and social growth in children attending the center.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Mount Juliet, TN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Mount Juliet, TN, and what factors influence the price?
In Mount Juliet, the cost for full-time, center-based infant care typically ranges from $1,100 to $1,500 per month. For toddlers and preschoolers, monthly fees generally fall between $900 and $1,300. Several factors influence these prices, including the center's accreditation (like NAEYC or NAC), the age of your child (infant care is most expensive due to required lower staff-to-child ratios), the inclusion of meals and curriculum, and the facility's amenities. Home-based daycare providers in Wilson County often charge 10-20% less. It's important to note that costs have been rising due to increased operational expenses and competitive staff wages in the growing Mount Juliet area. Many centers offer sibling discounts, so be sure to inquire.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Mount Juliet, and when should I start looking?
Due to Mount Juliet's rapid population growth, waitlists for highly-regarded daycare centers and preschools can be significant, especially for infant rooms. It is not uncommon for waitlists to be 6 to 12 months long for infants at popular facilities. For toddler and preschool spots, 3-6 month waits are typical. We strongly recommend starting your search and getting on waitlists during your second trimester of pregnancy if you are expecting. For immediate needs, be prepared to expand your search to neighboring areas like Lebanon or Hermitage, or consider licensed in-home providers, which may have more immediate availability. Always ask for a clear, written policy on how the waitlist is managed.
What are the state licensing requirements for childcare providers in Mount Juliet, and how can I verify a facility's compliance?
All childcare centers and group homes in Mount Juliet must be licensed by the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS). Key requirements include background checks for all staff, annual training in health, safety, and child development, specific staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:7 for 2-year-olds), and regular facility inspections. You can and should verify a provider's license status, inspection history, and any reported violations through the TDHS Child Care Agency Search tool online. Additionally, many Mount Juliet providers voluntarily pursue higher standards through programs like the Tennessee Star-Quality Child Care Program, which rates providers on a scale of 1 to 3 stars. Always look for a posted license during your tour.
Are there any unique local programs or resources for finding and affording childcare in Mount Juliet and Wilson County?
Yes, there are several local resources. First, the **Wilson County Help Center** can sometimes provide referrals to licensed providers. For financial assistance, Tennessee's **Child Care Payment Assistance (CCPA)** program helps eligible families, and you can apply through the TDHS website. Locally, some Mount Juliet churches host Mother's Day Out programs, which offer part-time care at a lower cost. The **Mount Juliet Parks and Recreation Department** also offers seasonal camps and after-school programs for school-age children. For networking and personal recommendations, the "Mount Juliet, TN - Community Information" Facebook group is an active forum where parents frequently share experiences and openings with local childcare providers.
What should I look for during a tour of a daycare center in Mount Juliet, and what are some local red flags?
During a tour, observe the cleanliness and safety of the environment, check for secure entrances (a must in our growing community), and note if children are engaged and staff are interacting positively. Ask about their curriculum, daily schedules, and outdoor play policies—given our weather, inquire about indoor play areas for rainy or very hot days. Specifically for Mount Juliet, ask about their emergency preparedness plans for severe weather, like tornadoes. Local red flags include a center not being able to immediately show you their TDHS license, high staff turnover (ask about average tenure), a lack of clear communication about their sick policy, or facilities that appear overcrowded beyond state ratios. Trust your instincts and talk to other parents in the community for their insights.
Nearby Cities
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