The Best Daycare Centers in Spring City, TN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Spring City. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Spring City
Kiddie Academy of Crossville
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Crossville offers a comprehensive Life Essentials curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and social-emotional learning. The center features state-licensed teachers with early childhood education credentials, secure keypad entry systems, and modern classroom environments with age-appropriate learning centers. Their program includes daily progress reports, nutritious meals prepared on-site, and large outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. The facility maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and emphasizes hands-on learning through structured play and educational activities.
Daycare Services:
First Baptist Church Child Development Center
First Baptist Church of Dayton
This faith-based childcare center provides a nurturing Christian environment with a strong academic foundation. The curriculum incorporates Abeka and other developmentally appropriate materials focusing on early literacy, math readiness, and social skills. The center features experienced teaching staff with CPR/first aid certification, secure check-in/check-out procedures, and age-separated classrooms with modern educational materials. They offer structured learning activities, music programs, outdoor play areas, and family engagement events throughout the year.
Daycare Services:
Creative Kids Learning Center
Independent Childcare Center
Creative Kids Learning Center provides a play-based learning environment with structured educational components. Their curriculum emphasizes early childhood development through hands-on activities, creative arts, and literacy-focused programming. The facility features secure access control, camera monitoring systems, and well-maintained indoor/outdoor play spaces. Staff members hold early childhood education credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. The center offers flexible scheduling, nutritious meal programs, and regular parent-teacher communication to track developmental milestones.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Spring City, TN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Spring City, TN, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Spring City, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS). This includes family homes caring for 5-12 children and childcare centers. Key requirements include background checks for all staff, specific child-to-staff ratios based on age, health and safety training (including CPR/First Aid), and regular facility inspections. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the TDHS Child Care Agency Search tool online. It's also a good practice to ask the provider directly for their license number and to see their most recent inspection report, which they are required to post.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Spring City, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Spring City and the surrounding Rhea County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $120 to $160 per week, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging $110 to $140 per week. Costs can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and staff qualifications. For financial assistance, Tennessee's Child Care Certificate Program (subsidy) is available for eligible families through the TDHS. Additionally, local organizations like the United Way of Rhea County may have resources or referrals for assistance. It's recommended to contact the Rhea County TDHS office directly to determine your eligibility for state aid.
Are there many daycare options with extended hours or weekend care available in Spring City for parents with non-traditional work schedules?
Options for extended hours (beyond 6:00 PM) or weekend care in Spring City are quite limited. Most licensed daycare centers and home-based providers operate on a standard weekday schedule, typically from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. For parents working shifts, weekends, or irregular hours, your best bet is to seek out registered family home providers who may offer more flexible arrangements on a case-by-case basis. Networking through local Facebook community groups for Spring City/Rhea County parents can sometimes lead to discoveries of smaller, flexible in-home caregivers. Planning ahead and getting on waitlists for any provider offering extended hours is crucial.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Spring City, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists for reputable daycare centers, especially for infants, in Spring City can range from 3 to 9 months, and sometimes longer. The limited number of licensed facilities in a smaller community like Spring City contributes to this demand. To secure a spot, it's advisable to begin your search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible, even during pregnancy. When contacting a center, ask specific questions about their list: Is there a fee to be on it? How often do they update parents on their position? Do they offer tours while you wait? Staying in periodic, polite contact can help keep your family top of mind.
What are some key local factors to consider when touring a daycare in Spring City, TN, beyond the basic curriculum?
When touring daycares in Spring City, consider these local-specific factors: First, inquire about their severe weather and tornado safety plans, as East Tennessee is prone to such events. Ask where children take shelter and how they practice drills. Second, given the rural setting, ask about outdoor play areas—are they securely fenced, and how do they handle ticks or other pests common to the area? Third, discuss their policy on school closures or delays due to weather, as this impacts drop-off and pick-up. Finally, ask about community involvement; do they take walks to the Spring City Public Library or integrate local events? This can indicate a connection to the small-town community.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Spring City: