The Best Daycare Centers in Catarina, TX
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Catarina. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Catarina
Little Angels Daycare & Learning Center
Independent
Little Angels Daycare & Learning Center is a highly-regarded facility serving the Catarina area from nearby Carrizo Springs. They offer a comprehensive educational curriculum focused on early childhood development through play-based learning and structured activities. The center features certified early childhood educators with specialized training in age-appropriate developmental milestones. Facilities include secure indoor learning environments with modern educational materials and safe outdoor play areas. What sets them apart is their bilingual English-Spanish program, nutritious meal program following USDA guidelines, and strong parent communication system with daily updates. They maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios and have an outstanding safety record with secure entry systems and regular safety drills.
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Carrizo Springs Head Start
Community Action Council of South Texas
Carrizo Springs Head Start provides high-quality early childhood education services to families in Catarina and surrounding Dimmit County. As part of the federally-funded Head Start program, they offer comprehensive early childhood services including evidence-based curriculum, health screenings, nutrition services, and family support. Their educational approach emphasizes school readiness through literacy development, social-emotional learning, and cognitive development. The center employs degreed early childhood specialists and maintains exceptional staff-to-child ratios. Facilities include developmentally appropriate classrooms, outdoor learning environments, and family resource centers. They stand out for their holistic approach to child development and strong community partnerships.
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Edukids Learning Center
Independent
Edukids Learning Center serves the Catarina area with a research-based educational program that combines Montessori principles with traditional early childhood education. Their curriculum focuses on individualized learning plans, hands-on activities, and STEM early exposure. The center features state-certified teachers with ongoing professional development and low student-teacher ratios. Facilities include secure, climate-controlled classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers for different developmental stages. They distinguish themselves through their technology-integrated learning approach, comprehensive safety protocols including surveillance systems, and flexible scheduling options for working families. The center also offers transportation services for school-age children in the Catarina area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Catarina, TX
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Catarina, TX, and are there any local assistance programs?
In Catarina, as a small, rural community in Dimmit County, daycare costs can vary but are generally lower than in major Texas cities. For an infant, you might expect to pay between $400-$550 per month for full-time care, while toddler care often ranges from $350-$500. These are estimates, and home-based providers may have different rates. For financial assistance, Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) offers the Child Care Services (CCS) program for eligible families, which can subsidize costs. Given the limited number of providers, applying early for any assistance is crucial. You can also inquire directly with local providers about potential sliding scale fees or sibling discounts.
How do I verify if a daycare or home-based childcare provider in Catarina is properly licensed and what should I look for?
All licensed childcare centers and registered or licensed home operations in Texas are regulated by the Texas Health and Human Services (HHS). You can verify a provider's license, view their latest inspection reports, and check for any violations by using the online "Texas Child Care Search" tool on the HHS website. For Catarina specifically, it's important to note that many small-town providers may be listed as "registered" home operations, which have different requirements than licensed centers. During a visit, look for the license certificate posted visibly, ask about caregiver-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants), and check for safety measures like secured outdoor areas and up-to-date fire extinguishers.
Are waitlists common for daycare spots in Catarina, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of childcare options in a small town like Catarina, waitlists are very common and can be lengthy, especially for infant care. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search during pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before their needed start date. Many home-based providers, which are a primary option here, may only have a few slots available. Contacting providers directly, getting on multiple waitlists, and following up periodically is a key strategy. Be prepared to be flexible with your start date if possible.
What are the main types of childcare available in Catarina, and how do they differ?
In Catarina, your primary options are licensed childcare centers (though these may be limited) and registered family homes. A licensed center is a facility in a commercial or dedicated building, often offering structured programs for multiple age groups. A registered family home is a smaller, home-based operation caring for up to 12 children. These are very common in rural areas and can offer a more intimate, family-like setting but may have less formal curriculum. Given the town's size, you may also find listed or unlisted home providers caring for fewer children; always verify their registration status with Texas HHS for safety and accountability.
What local resources or networks can help me find and evaluate childcare options in and around Catarina?
Your best starting point is the Texas Health and Human Services "Child Care Search" website and hotline. For more localized support, contact the **Workforce Solutions Middle Rio Grande** board, which serves Dimmit County. They can provide referrals to licensed providers and information on financial aid. Additionally, connecting with other parents through local community groups, churches, or the Catarina ISD (for school-age programs) can yield personal recommendations. For evaluations, always schedule in-person visits, ask for references from current parents, and use the inspection reports from the HHS website as a critical tool.