The Best Daycare Centers in Springfield, TN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Springfield. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Springfield
Kiddie Academy of Springfield
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Springfield provides a comprehensive educational curriculum called Life Essentials® that focuses on character development, social-emotional learning, and academic readiness. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and comprehensive monitoring. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and maintain low teacher-to-child ratios. The facility includes age-appropriate learning centers, outdoor playgrounds with safety surfaces, and nutritious meal programs. Their curriculum integrates STEM activities, literacy development, and creative arts while emphasizing communication skills and problem-solving abilities.
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The Goddard School of Clarksville
Goddard Systems, Inc.
Located in nearby Clarksville and serving the Springfield area, The Goddard School offers a play-based learning approach through their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program. The center features secure entry systems, daily sanitation protocols, and certified teachers with early childhood development backgrounds. Classrooms are equipped with modern learning materials and technology, while outdoor spaces include age-separated playgrounds. The curriculum emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies through hands-on activities. Parent communication includes daily reports and regular developmental assessments.
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First Baptist Child Development Center
First Baptist Church of Springfield
First Baptist Child Development Center offers a faith-based educational program combined with academic preparation in a nurturing environment. The center maintains small class sizes with qualified teachers who participate in ongoing professional development. Safety features include secured access, comprehensive background checks, and emergency preparedness training. The curriculum incorporates phonics, mathematics readiness, science exploration, and biblical principles. Facilities include dedicated infant rooms, preschool learning centers, and secure outdoor play areas. The center emphasizes character development, social skills, and kindergarten readiness through structured activities and creative play.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Springfield, TN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare centers in Springfield, TN, and how can I verify a provider's compliance?
In Springfield and throughout Tennessee, childcare providers must be licensed by the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) Child Care Licensing. This includes centers, family homes, and group homes. Key requirements include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:9 for 3-year-olds), background checks for all employees, health and safety training, 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 highly recommended to check this database, as it shows the license status, any corrective action plans, and the results of recent inspections, giving you crucial insight into a facility's standards.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Springfield, TN?
The cost of childcare in Springfield is generally more affordable than in larger metropolitan areas like Nashville, but it varies by provider type. On average, parents can expect to pay between **$150 to $225 per week** for full-time care at a licensed daycare center for an infant or toddler. In-home family daycare providers may range from **$120 to $180 per week**. Factors affecting cost include the center's amenities, curriculum, and staff credentials. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly fee (meals, snacks, supplies) and if there are additional costs for registration, late pick-up, or special programs. Financial assistance may be available through the Tennessee Child Care Payment Assistance Program for eligible families.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Springfield, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, many reputable daycare centers in Springfield do maintain waitlists. It is not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months for infant rooms. We strongly recommend starting your search **during your second trimester of pregnancy** if possible. When touring facilities, always ask about their current waitlist length, the deposit required to hold a spot (which is often non-refundable), and their process for moving children from the waitlist into an open slot. Exploring multiple options, including licensed family homes, can increase your chances of securing a spot when needed.
What are some of the key factors to consider when touring a daycare facility in Springfield?
Beyond basic licensing, parents in Springfield should look for several local and practical factors. First, observe the **cleanliness and safety** of the facility, including secure entrances and safe outdoor play areas. Ask about their **staff turnover rate**; consistent caregivers are crucial for a child's development. Inquire about their **daily schedule, educational philosophy**, and how they handle discipline. Given Springfield's weather, check their policies for **outdoor play** on hot or rainy days. Also, ask about their **sick policy and communication methods** (many use apps like Brightwheel or Tadpoles). Finally, trust your instincts on the overall atmosphere—are the children engaged and happy?
What resources are available in Springfield, TN, to help me find and evaluate childcare options?
Springfield and Robertson County offer several valuable local resources. Your first stop should be the **Tennessee Child Care Resource and Referral Network (CCR&R)**, which serves the area. They provide free referrals to licensed providers and can help you understand quality indicators. You can also contact the **Robertson County Health Department** for information on health and safety standards. For community insights, consider joining local Facebook groups like "Springfield, TN Community" or "Robertson County Moms" to get personal recommendations and experiences from other parents. Additionally, the **Springfield-Robertson County Chamber of Commerce** may have listings for established childcare businesses in the area.