The Best Daycare Centers in Wartrace, TN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Wartrace. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Wartrace
The Goddard School of Shelbyville
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Shelbyville offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, and arts, delivered by qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. What sets this center apart is their STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) enrichment programs and daily communication with parents through their proprietary mobile app. They maintain low student-to-teacher ratios and follow strict health and safety protocols.
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Kiddie Kingdom Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Kingdom Learning Center has been serving Bedford County families for nearly two decades with a comprehensive early childhood program. Their curriculum emphasizes school readiness through structured learning activities, creative expression, and social development. The center features secure facilities with monitored access, modern classrooms, and age-appropriate playgrounds. Staff members hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing training in child development and safety protocols. Parents particularly appreciate the center's family-like atmosphere, nutritious meal program, and consistent communication about their child's progress and daily activities.
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The Children's Center of Tullahoma
Independent
The Children's Center of Tullahoma provides high-quality early childhood education with a research-based curriculum that prepares children for academic success. Their program includes hands-on learning experiences, literacy development, mathematics exploration, and character education. The facility boasts state-of-the-art security systems, spacious classrooms, and outdoor learning environments. What distinguishes this center is their commitment to individualized learning plans and their highly qualified teaching staff with advanced degrees in early childhood education. They maintain excellent staff retention rates and have built a strong reputation for their engaging learning environment and comprehensive safety protocols.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Wartrace, TN
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Wartrace, TN, and how do I find them?
In Wartrace and the surrounding Bedford County area, your primary licensed options are family childcare homes (caring for up to 7 children in a residential setting) and childcare centers. Due to Wartrace's small size, many families also consider providers in nearby Shelbyville, which offers more center-based options. The best way to find licensed providers is through the Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) Child Care Finder website. You can filter by location (using Wartrace's zip code, 37183), type of care, and age group. It's also very common in Wartrace to find care through local word-of-mouth, community Facebook groups (like "Wartrace, TN Community"), and bulletin boards at places like the Post Office or the Walking Horse Hotel.
What is the average cost for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Wartrace, and are there any financial assistance programs?
In Wartrace and Bedford County, costs are generally lower than in major Tennessee metros but can vary. For a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $120-$160 per week for full-time infant care. Centers in nearby Shelbyville typically range from $145-$185 per week. Tennessee offers financial assistance through the Child Care Certificate Program, administered by TDHS, which helps eligible low-income working families or those in education/training programs. You must apply through the Bedford County TDHS office. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in Wartrace, and when should I start looking for care?
Given the limited number of providers in Wartrace itself, waitlists for the most sought-after licensed family homes or spots at popular centers in Shelbyville can be significant, especially for infants. It's not uncommon for a waitlist to be 3 to 6 months long. We strongly recommend starting your search at least 6-9 months before you need care. For expectant parents, beginning the process during the second trimester is a wise strategy. Be proactive: get on multiple lists, even for options you're considering, and check in periodically to maintain your spot.
What are Tennessee's key licensing requirements for daycare providers that I should verify as a parent in Wartrace?
All licensed providers in Tennessee must meet TDHS standards. Key things you should verify include: 1) **Staff-to-Child Ratios:** For infants (0-12 months), it's 1:4; for toddlers (12-30 months), it's 1:5. 2) **Background Checks:** All staff must have cleared fingerprint-based criminal background checks. 3) **Health and Safety Training:** Providers must have training in CPR, First Aid, and Safe Sleep practices for infants. 4) **Annual Inspections:** Licensed homes and centers undergo unannounced inspections for health, safety, and program standards. You can view a provider's licensing history and any violations on the TDHS Child Care Finder website. Don't hesitate to ask a provider in Wartrace to see their current license.
Are there part-time, drop-in, or after-school care options available for school-age children in Wartrace?
Options for part-time and school-age care are very limited within Wartrace proper. The town does not have a dedicated childcare center, so structured after-school programs are typically found through the Bedford County School District in Shelbyville. However, some licensed family childcare homes in Wartrace may offer before/after-school care or part-time arrangements for preschool and school-age children, often transporting them to/from Wartrace Elementary. This is highly variable and fills quickly. For drop-in care, your closest options would be in Shelbyville. Networking with other parents at school or community events is often the best way to discover these smaller, home-based opportunities.
Childcare Insights for Wartrace
Finding reliable and affordable childcare is one of the most significant challenges for families, and if you're a parent in Wartrace, Tennessee, typing "low cost daycare near me" into a search bar, you're not alone. The search for quality care that fits a family budget requires a local approach, as options can vary greatly even within our county. The good news is that with some focused effort and knowledge of local resources, securing nurturing care for your child in the Wartrace area is an achievable goal.
A great first step is to look beyond the immediate town limits while keeping your search community-oriented. Wartrace itself is a charming, close-knit community, and sometimes the most affordable options are smaller, licensed home-based daycares operated by local providers. These in-home settings can offer a family-like atmosphere and often have more flexible rates. To find these, don't underestimate the power of local networks. Ask for recommendations at the Wartrace Post Office, the Bell Buckle Cafe, or while at the Walking Horse Hotel. Fellow parents at the Wartrace City Park or the elementary school are often the best sources for honest reviews and leads on providers who may not have a large online presence.
It is also essential to explore state and county assistance programs that can make childcare significantly more affordable. Tennessee’s Department of Human Services administers the Child Care Certificate Program, which provides financial assistance to eligible families. Your local DHS office in Shelbyville serves Bedford County and can provide detailed information on income requirements and the application process. Many licensed daycare providers in and around Wartrace accept these certificates, effectively lowering your out-of-pocket cost to a co-pay based on your income. Contacting the Bedford County Health Department can also yield a list of state-licensed facilities and registered family homes in our area that meet health and safety standards.
When evaluating any "low cost" option, whether it's a center in nearby Shelbyville or a home provider in Wartrace, always schedule a visit. Look for a clean, safe environment where the children seem engaged and happy. Ask about the caregiver-to-child ratio, daily routines, and their philosophy on learning and play. In a small town like ours, a provider's reputation is paramount. Feel free to ask for and contact other parent references. Remember, affordability should not come at the expense of quality and trust. Sometimes, partnering with another family in your neighborhood for a shared nanny or a babysitting co-op can be a creative and cost-effective solution, fostering a wonderful support system right here in our community.
The journey to find the right childcare fit in Wartrace, TN, may take some patience and legwork, but by tapping into local wisdom and utilizing available financial supports, you can find a safe, caring, and affordable environment for your child to learn and grow. Your peace of mind is worth the effort.