The Best Daycare Centers in Savannah, TN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Savannah. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Savannah
The Learning Tree Academy
Independent
The Learning Tree Academy is a highly-regarded childcare center offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. They feature a structured curriculum that focuses on developmental milestones through play-based learning and academic preparation. The facility maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios with qualified early childhood educators who receive ongoing professional development. Their secure facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play areas, and modern learning materials. Parents consistently praise their communication, nutritious meal programs, and the nurturing environment that promotes social, emotional, and cognitive development.
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Kiddie Kottage Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Kottage Learning Center provides quality childcare with a strong emphasis on early literacy and school readiness. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum elements with hands-on learning activities, STEM exploration, and character development. The center features secure access systems, clean and organized classrooms, and dedicated outdoor play spaces. Staff members hold early childhood education credentials and participate in continuous training. The center is noted for its family-oriented approach, regular parent-teacher conferences, and comprehensive developmental assessments that track each child's progress.
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First United Methodist Church Preschool
First United Methodist Church of Savannah
First United Methodist Church Preschool offers a faith-based early childhood education program that balances academic preparation with Christian values. Their curriculum focuses on kindergarten readiness through structured learning centers, literacy development, and social skills building. The program operates in a safe, nurturing environment with experienced teachers who maintain low student-teacher ratios. The facility includes dedicated preschool classrooms, a secure playground, and age-appropriate learning materials. Parents appreciate the strong community atmosphere, regular communication, and the program's emphasis on both academic and character development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Savannah, TN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Savannah, TN, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Savannah, TN, all childcare facilities caring for more than four unrelated children 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), facility safety (fire, sanitation), and age-appropriate programming. To verify a provider's license and view any inspection reports or compliance history, you can use the TDHS Child Care Agency Search tool online. It's highly recommended to only consider licensed providers to ensure your child's safety and a regulated standard of care.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Savannah, TN?
The cost of daycare in Savannah is generally more affordable than in major metropolitan areas in Tennessee, but prices vary based on the child's age and the type of center. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay an average of **$120 to $180 per week** for full-time care for an infant or toddler. In-home family daycare may be slightly less, around **$100 to $150 per week**. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate (e.g., meals, snacks, curriculum, diapers). Some centers in Hardin County may offer sliding scale fees or accept state assistance through the Child Care Certificate Program for eligible families.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Savannah, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of licensed daycare centers in a smaller city like Savannah, waitlists are common, especially for infant rooms which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. It is strongly advised to begin your search **at least 6 to 9 months before you need care**, and even earlier if you require an infant spot. When touring facilities, always ask about their current waitlist length and their policy for moving up the list. Exploring options in nearby communities like Crump or Adamsville could also provide alternatives if local waitlists are too long.
What types of childcare programs are most commonly available for school-age children in Savannah, TN?
For school-age children (5-12 years), Savannah offers several options beyond traditional daycare. Many parents utilize the **before and after-school care programs** operated by the Hardin County School District or offered at individual elementary schools. Local churches and community centers, such as the Savannah Civic Center, may also run seasonal camps and after-school programs. During summer and school holidays, full-day summer camps become the primary option. These programs often include homework help, recreational activities, and field trips, and they tend to be more affordable than infant care.
What local resources in Hardin County can help me find and evaluate childcare options in Savannah?
The primary local resource is the **Tennessee Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) Network**, which serves Hardin County. You can contact them online or by phone for a free, personalized referral list of licensed providers in the Savannah area that match your needs (hours, location, age of child). They can also provide guidance on what to look for during a visit and questions to ask. Additionally, the **Hardin County Health Department** can provide information on health and immunization requirements for childcare attendance. For word-of-mouth recommendations, local Facebook community groups (e.g., "Savannah, TN Community Board") are often used by parents to share experiences with specific providers.