The Best Daycare Centers in Saint Joseph, TN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Saint Joseph. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Saint Joseph
The Goddard School of Lawrenceburg
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Lawrenceburg offers a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. Their play-based curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development programs. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All teachers are qualified early childhood educators who receive ongoing professional development. The school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and provides daily communication with parents through their proprietary app.
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Primrose School of Lawrenceburg
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Lawrenceburg follows the Balanced Learning® approach, blending purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. Their curriculum emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social studies while incorporating character development and life skills. The facility includes secure check-in systems, age-specific learning environments, and safe outdoor playgrounds. Teachers hold early childhood credentials and receive continuous training. The school offers nutritious meals and snacks, and maintains strong parent partnerships through regular communication and family events.
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Small World Learning Center
Independent
Small World Learning Center provides a nurturing Christian-based environment with a developmentally appropriate curriculum that focuses on cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth. Their program includes structured learning activities, creative play, music, and movement. The center features secure facilities with monitored access, modern classrooms, and safe outdoor play areas. All staff members are CPR and First Aid certified with background checks. The center maintains small class sizes and offers flexible scheduling options to meet family needs, with strong emphasis on individualized attention and parent communication.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Saint Joseph, TN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Saint Joseph, TN, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Saint Joseph, Tennessee, all childcare facilities caring for four or more unrelated children must be licensed by the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS). This includes family homes, group homes, and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and training. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the TDHS Child Care Agency Search tool online. You can search by county (Lawrence County, where Saint Joseph is located) or provider name. It's highly recommended to only consider licensed providers, as this offers a baseline of oversight and protection for your child.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Saint Joseph, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Saint Joseph and greater Lawrence County area, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from $120 to $160 per week. For toddlers, costs may be slightly lower, around $110 to $140 per week. These rates are generally more affordable than in larger Tennessee cities like Nashville or Memphis. For financial assistance, Tennessee's Child Care Certificate Program (subsidy) helps eligible low-income families working, attending school, or in job training. You apply through the TDHS office in Lawrence County. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Saint Joseph, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the smaller number of providers in a rural community like Saint Joseph, quality daycare spots, especially for infants, can be limited. Waitlists for the most sought-after licensed centers or family homes can range from 3 to 9 months. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during your second trimester of pregnancy if expecting. For older children, starting your search at least 4-6 months before you need care is prudent. Be proactive: call multiple providers, ask detailed questions about their waitlist process (e.g., Is there a fee? How often should I check in?), and get on several lists to increase your options.
What types of childcare settings are most commonly available in Saint Joseph, TN?
Parents in Saint Joseph typically have three main options. First, **licensed family childcare homes**, which are often run out of a provider's residence and offer a smaller, home-like setting for a mixed-age group. Second, **licensed childcare centers**, which are more structured programs, often with multiple staff and dedicated facilities; these may be affiliated with local churches or community organizations. Third, **registered family homes**, which care for 5-7 children and have slightly different regulations. Given the rural nature of the area, family homes are a very common and valued option. There are fewer large corporate chain centers compared to urban areas, so most providers are locally owned and operated.
Are there any unique local resources or networks in Saint Joseph to help parents find and evaluate childcare?
Yes, a key local resource is your **Tennessee Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) network**, specifically the agency serving the South Central region, which includes Lawrence County. They maintain a database of licensed providers, offer guidance on choosing quality care, and can provide referrals. You can contact them online or by phone. Locally, connecting with other parents through community hubs like the Saint Joseph Post Office, the Lawrence County Public Library, or churches such as St. Joseph Catholic Church can yield personal recommendations. The Lawrence County Schools system may also have information about pre-K programs and before/after-school care options for older children.