The Best Daycare Centers in Rugby, TN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Rugby. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Rugby
Jamestown Head Start Center
Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency
Jamestown Head Start Center provides comprehensive early childhood education and development services for children from low-income families. The center follows the Head Start performance standards with a focus on school readiness, offering evidence-based curriculum that addresses literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. All lead teachers hold associate or bachelor's degrees in early childhood education, and the center maintains low student-teacher ratios. The facility includes age-appropriate learning centers, outdoor play areas, and provides nutritious meals and snacks. Regular developmental screenings and family engagement activities ensure holistic child development support.
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Little Blessings Learning Center
Independent
Little Blessings Learning Center offers a Christian-based educational environment with a comprehensive curriculum that balances academic preparation and spiritual development. The center features age-specific classrooms with hands-on learning centers, a secure outdoor playground, and modern security systems including keypad entry. Their curriculum includes phonics-based reading readiness, STEM activities, and character development. All teachers are CPR and First Aid certified with ongoing professional development. The center is noted for its warm, family-like atmosphere and strong parent communication through daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences.
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Kiddie Kottage Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Kottage Learning Center provides a play-based learning environment that emphasizes social, emotional, and academic development. The center uses Creative Curriculum with thematic units that incorporate literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts. Their facility includes separate infant and toddler rooms, preschool classrooms with learning centers, and a fenced outdoor play area with age-appropriate equipment. The staff maintains Tennessee Early Learning Developmental Standards (TN-ELDS) and participates in continuous quality improvement through the state's Star-Quality Child Care Program. The center is particularly praised for its engaging activities and caring, experienced teaching staff.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Rugby, TN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Rugby, Tennessee, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Rugby, as in all of Tennessee, childcare facilities must be licensed by the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS). Licensed providers must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, health and safety training (including CPR/First Aid), safe environments, and age-appropriate programming. To verify a facility's license and compliance history, you can use the TDHS Child Care Agency Search tool online. It's highly recommended to only consider licensed providers, as this ensures a baseline of safety and oversight. You can also contact the TDHS Child Care Licensing office for the Upper Cumberland region for additional verification.
What is the typical cost range for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Rugby, TN?
Childcare costs in Rugby are generally more affordable than in larger metropolitan areas in Tennessee, but prices can vary based on the type of care. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay approximately $120 to $180 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. In-home licensed family daycare homes may be slightly less, often ranging from $100 to $150 per week. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate (e.g., meals, snacks, formula, curriculum). Given Rugby's small, rural nature, there are fewer providers, so securing a spot at a preferred rate may require planning ahead.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with childcare costs for families in Rugby?
Yes, eligible families in Rugby can apply for the Tennessee Child Care Payment Assistance Program (CCPAP), administered by TDHS. This subsidy helps low-income working families, those in job training, or parents attending school pay for licensed childcare. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. You can apply online through the TDHS website or get assistance through the local Department of Human Services office serving Morgan County. Additionally, it's worth inquiring with individual providers if they offer any sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, as some local facilities may have limited flexibility.
How long are waitlists for daycare centers in Rugby, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the limited number of licensed daycare options in a small town like Rugby, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care. It is not unusual for popular centers or in-home providers to have waitlists of 3 to 6 months, or even longer. We strongly recommend that expecting parents or families planning a move start researching and contacting providers as early as possible—ideally during the second trimester of pregnancy or at least 4-6 months before you need care. Be prepared to place a deposit to hold a spot. Don't hesitate to get on multiple lists to increase your chances of securing care when needed.
What are the main types of childcare options available specifically within the Rugby community?
Rugby offers a few key types of childcare, though options are more limited than in cities. Your primary choices are: 1) **Licensed Family Home Daycares:** Small, home-based settings often offering a more flexible, family-like environment. 2) **Licensed Childcare Centers:** While there may not be a large center in Rugby proper, there are centers in nearby towns like Jamestown or Allardt that serve the area. 3) **Faith-Based Preschool Programs:** Some local churches may offer part-day preschool programs for ages 3-5, which can supplement care. 4) **Registered Caregivers/Nannies:** For more personalized care, some families hire in-home caregivers; ensure they are registered with the state if required. Networking through local community groups or Facebook pages for Rugby is often essential for discovering all available options.