The Best Daycare Centers in Hico, TX
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Hico. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Hico
Hico Head Start
Community Action Corporation of South Texas
Hico Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education and family support services with a focus on school readiness for low-income families. The program follows a research-based curriculum that addresses all areas of development including cognitive, social-emotional, and physical growth. Certified teachers implement developmentally appropriate practices in small class sizes with low child-to-staff ratios. The center provides nutritious meals, health screenings, and family engagement activities. What makes this program stand out is its holistic approach that supports both child development and family wellbeing through dedicated family advocates and community partnerships.
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Stephenville Early Head Start
Community Action Corporation of South Texas
Located just 15 miles from Hico in Stephenville, this Early Head Start program serves infants and toddlers with a comprehensive approach to early childhood development. The center employs highly qualified early childhood specialists who implement research-based curricula focused on building strong foundations in language, cognitive, and social-emotional development. The facility features age-appropriate learning environments with specialized infant and toddler classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and developmental assessment tools. What distinguishes this center is its strong emphasis on early intervention services, parent education programs, and comprehensive support services including health and nutrition components.
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Glen Rose Head Start
Community Action Corporation of South Texas
Serving families in the Hico area from nearby Glen Rose (approximately 20 miles away), this Head Start program offers high-quality preschool education with a strong focus on school readiness. The center features certified early childhood teachers who implement a comprehensive curriculum aligned with Texas Early Learning Guidelines. The program emphasizes literacy development, math concepts, science exploration, and social skills through hands-on learning experiences. The facility includes modern classrooms, secure playgrounds, and family resource centers. What makes this center exceptional is its commitment to individualized learning plans, regular developmental assessments, and strong parent involvement components that create a partnership between home and school.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Hico, TX
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Hico, Texas?
In Hico, Texas, parents typically have access to a few key types of licensed childcare. These include licensed home-based daycare operations (often called family daycare homes) and potentially a licensed childcare center. Given Hico's smaller, rural community size, family daycare homes are very common. These are run out of a provider's residence and offer a more home-like setting with smaller groups. The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) licenses and regulates all these providers. You can search for licensed options in Hico specifically on the DFPS website. Due to limited options, some parents may also utilize legally operating but unlisted "registered" or "listed" family homes, which have fewer children and meet basic standards, or may arrange for care with trusted neighbors or relatives.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare in Hico?
It is crucial to check the background of any potential childcare provider. For any licensed daycare center or family home in Hico, you can use the Texas DFPS "Child Care Search" tool online. This free public database allows you to search by the provider's name, city (Hico), or zip code. The report will show the facility's license status (active, probationary, etc.), its capacity, ages served, and a detailed history of any minimum standard violations from state inspections. You can see the nature of each violation and whether it was corrected. We strongly recommend reviewing this for any provider you are seriously considering and even asking them directly about any past violations to understand their commitment to compliance and safety.
What is the average cost for full-time daycare in Hico, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
Childcare costs in Hico are generally lower than in major Texas metropolitan areas but can vary based on the child's age and the type of care. For a full-time slot in a licensed family home, you might expect to pay between $120 to $180 per week per child. A center-based program, if available, could be slightly higher. For financial assistance, Texas Workforce Solutions (TWC) administers the Child Care Services (CCS) program for eligible families. Eligibility is based on income, work or training requirements, and family size. You would apply through the TWC board that serves Hamilton County (which includes Hico). Additionally, some local churches or community organizations may offer limited scholarships or subsidized programs, so it's worth inquiring directly with providers.
Are waitlists common for daycare in Hico, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists can be common in Hico due to the limited number of providers serving the community. High-quality, licensed home daycares often have very few openings and may maintain a waitlist, especially for infants and toddlers, which have stricter caregiver-to-child ratios. It is highly advisable to begin your search at least 3-6 months before you need care. If you are expecting a baby, start contacting providers during your second trimester. When you tour a facility or speak with a home provider, always ask about their current availability and waitlist policy, including any deposit required to hold a future spot.
What are some local factors specific to Hico that I should consider when choosing a daycare?
Hico's rural setting presents unique considerations. First, **transportation and location** are key; since public transportation is limited, you'll want a provider conveniently located on your commute route to work or school. Second, inquire about their **plans for school-age children** during summer breaks, holidays, and after-school hours, as they may have limited capacity for older kids. Third, ask about their **policy on farm or animal exposure** if that's relevant to your family, as some home daycares may have pets or be near livestock. Finally, consider the **community network**; in a small town, word-of-mouth recommendations are incredibly valuable. Talk to other parents at the library, city park, or local events like the "Billy the Kid Museum" gatherings for trusted referrals.