The Best Daycare Centers in Abernathy, TX
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Abernathy. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Abernathy
The Learning Tree Academy
The Learning Tree Academy
The Learning Tree Academy is a highly-regarded childcare center located in nearby Lubbock that serves families throughout the South Plains region. They offer a comprehensive educational program with a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation. Their curriculum focuses on early literacy, math concepts, and social-emotional development. The center features secure facilities with controlled access, certified early childhood educators, and low teacher-to-child ratios. They provide nutritious meals and snacks, extensive outdoor play areas, and enrichment programs including music and movement. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, clean facilities, and strong communication.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Kollege Child Development Center
Kiddie Kollege
Kiddie Kollege has been serving Lubbock and surrounding communities including Abernathy for nearly two decades. They offer a balanced curriculum that combines Montessori-inspired learning with traditional early childhood education. The center features age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor playgrounds, and comprehensive safety protocols including surveillance systems and strict check-in procedures. Their qualified teaching staff includes certified early childhood educators with specialized training in child development. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, character development, and school readiness skills. They maintain excellent teacher retention rates and strong parent partnerships.
Daycare Services:
Children's Lighthouse of Lubbock
Children's Lighthouse International
Children's Lighthouse is a nationally recognized franchise with a strong local presence in Lubbock that serves families from Abernathy and surrounding areas. Their proprietary curriculum, "The Lighthouse Way," focuses on character values, literacy development, and STEM education from infancy through school age. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, including keypad entry and camera monitoring. They employ degreed teachers and maintain low student-teacher ratios. The facility includes dedicated infant rooms, age-specific playgrounds, and enrichment programs in Spanish, music, and physical education. Parents consistently report high satisfaction with the structured learning environment and professional staff.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Abernathy, TX
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Abernathy, Texas, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Abernathy, as in all of Texas, childcare operations are regulated by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). Providers must be licensed, registered, or listed, depending on the type and size of care. Licensed centers and registered family homes undergo background checks, health and safety inspections, and must meet specific staff-to-child ratios and training requirements. To verify a provider's compliance and view their latest inspection reports, you can use the free, public Texas Child Care Search tool on the HHSC website. This is a critical first step for Abernathy parents to ensure any facility they consider meets state-mandated safety standards.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Abernathy, and when should I start looking for infant care?
Due to the smaller number of providers in a community like Abernathy compared to larger cities, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant care which has the strictest staff-to-child ratios. It is not uncommon for popular local centers or highly-regarded registered family homes to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. We strongly recommend Abernathy parents begin their search and get on waitlists during the second trimester of pregnancy, if not earlier. Contacting providers directly to ask about their current waitlist length and policy is the best way to plan accordingly.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for a toddler in Abernathy, Texas?
While costs are generally lower than in major metropolitan areas like Dallas or Austin, daycare in Abernathy is a significant household expense. For a toddler (ages 18 months to 3 years), parents can expect to pay an average of **$450 to $650 per month** for full-time care at a licensed center. Registered family homes may be slightly less, typically ranging from **$400 to $550 per month**. These are estimates, and rates vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and meal provisions. Always ask for a detailed breakdown of what is included in the weekly or monthly tuition.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with childcare costs for families in Abernathy?
Yes, the primary program is Texas Workforce Commission's (TWC) Child Care Services (CCS) program. This subsidy helps eligible low-income families who are working, attending school, or participating in job training pay for childcare. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and need. Families in Abernathy apply through the TWC's local workforce development board, which for this region is Workforce Solutions South Plains. We recommend contacting their office in Lubbock to determine eligibility and apply, as funding is limited and there is often a waitlist for services.
What are my options for drop-in or part-time childcare in Abernathy, especially for irregular schedules?
Consistent drop-in or hourly care is very limited in small towns like Abernathy. Most licensed centers require set, full-time or part-time schedules to maintain their ratios and staffing. Your best options for flexible care are typically: 1) **Registered Family Homes**, which may have more flexibility with enrollment; 2) **Finding a licensed or listed family home that specifically advertises part-time slots**; or 3) **Networking with other local parents** to share a trusted, licensed babysitter for occasional needs. For parents with shift work at local employers like the school district, Abernathy Packing, or producers, some in-home providers may offer evening or weekend care by pre-arrangement. Always ensure any provider you use, even for occasional care, is listed with the state to ensure basic safety standards are met.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Abernathy: