The Best Daycare Centers in Telford, TN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Telford. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Telford
The Goddard School of Johnson City
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Johnson City offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. Their highly qualified teachers implement play-based learning with STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) curriculum. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes character development, communication skills, and individualized learning plans with regular progress reports for parents.
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Kiddie Academy of Johnson City
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Johnson City provides comprehensive educational childcare with their Life Essentials® curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. The academy features state-of-the-art security systems including electronic entry and surveillance. Their program includes Spanish language exposure, technology integration, and hands-on learning activities. Certified teachers implement developmentally appropriate practices with low student-teacher ratios. The facility includes dedicated learning centers, outdoor play areas, and nutritious meal programs. Parents receive daily communication through the proprietary mobile app with photos and updates.
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Primrose School of Johnson City
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Johnson City offers the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach that combines teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a focus on character development and academics. Their curriculum includes literacy development, mathematics, science, social studies, and arts. The school features secure facilities with keypad entry, comprehensive background checks for staff, and health/safety protocols. Teachers are early childhood certified and participate in continuous training. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, outdoor exploration, and community involvement. Parents receive regular portfolio assessments and developmental progress reports.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Telford, TN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Telford, TN, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Telford and all of Tennessee, childcare providers must be licensed by the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) unless they qualify for an exemption (like caring for fewer than 5 children from no more than two unrelated families). Licensed facilities must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, health and safety inspections, staff training in CPR/First Aid, and curriculum. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the TDHS Child Care Agency Search tool online. For Telford specifically, you can also contact the local TDHS office serving Washington County for additional guidance or to ask about any recent inspections of a facility you're considering.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Telford, TN?
Childcare costs in Telford are generally more affordable than in larger Tennessee cities like Knoxville or Nashville, but they can still be a significant portion of a family's budget. For full-time care (5 days a week), you can expect to pay an average of $120 to $180 per week for a toddler, and slightly more for an infant, typically ranging from $130 to $200 per week. These rates are for licensed daycare centers and group homes. In-home providers may offer lower rates. It's important to note that costs can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and meal provisions. We recommend contacting several providers directly for their current rate sheets.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with daycare costs for families in Telford?
Yes, the primary program is the Tennessee Child Care Payment Assistance Program (CCPAP), administered by TDHS. Eligibility is based on family income, size, and reason for care (such as employment, education, or job training). Many working families in Telford may qualify. You apply through the TDHS website or your local county office. Additionally, some local nonprofits or community action agencies serving Washington County may have limited assistance or sliding scale fee programs. It's crucial to apply early, as funding can be limited and waitlists may exist. Your chosen daycare provider must also be a participating provider with the state program.
Given Telford's more rural setting, what are the typical waitlist times for enrolling an infant in a licensed daycare center?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Telford, securing infant care can be competitive. Waitlist times for infants (children under 18 months) at the few licensed centers in and around Telford can range from 3 to 9 months, and sometimes longer. It is highly advisable to begin your search and get on waitlists during your pregnancy. Many parents in the area also consider licensed family daycare homes or providers in neighboring towns like Jonesborough or Johnson City, which may have more options but could also have waitlists. Proactive and early planning is the key to securing a spot.
What are some key factors to consider when touring a daycare facility in Telford, beyond the basics?
For Telford specifically, consider these local factors: First, inquire about their emergency preparedness plan for rural areas, including protocols for severe weather common to East Tennessee and communication plans if cell service is spotty. Second, ask about their outdoor play philosophy, as access to safe, engaging outdoor space is a benefit of a rural setting. Third, understand their policy on closures for minor illnesses; in a smaller community with fewer backup options, a strict policy could be challenging for working parents. Fourth, ask about staff longevity—low turnover indicates a stable, positive environment, which is crucial in a tight-knit area. Finally, gauge their connection to the local community, such as visits from the Washington County library or local farms, which can enrich your child's experience.