The Best Daycare Centers in Hungerford, TX
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Hungerford. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Hungerford
Wharton County Head Start
Community Action Council of South Texas
Wharton County Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education and development services for low-income families in the Hungerford area. The center follows a research-based curriculum focused on school readiness, offering developmental screenings, health services, and family engagement programs. Staff members hold early childhood certifications and receive ongoing professional development. The facility maintains low student-teacher ratios and emphasizes literacy development, social-emotional learning, and kindergarten preparation through structured play-based activities.
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Little Learners Academy
Independent
Little Learners Academy offers a comprehensive early childhood program serving families throughout Wharton County, including Hungerford residents. The center features a balanced curriculum combining Montessori-inspired learning with Texas Early Learning standards. Qualified early childhood educators provide individualized attention in modern, secure classrooms equipped with age-appropriate learning materials. The facility includes secure outdoor play areas, nutritionally balanced meal programs, and comprehensive safety protocols including secured entry systems and regular safety drills.
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Kiddie Kollege Child Development Center
Independent
Kiddie Kollege serves families throughout the region including Hungerford with a developmental approach to early childhood education. The center employs certified early childhood educators who implement a structured curriculum emphasizing literacy, mathematics, science exploration, and social development. The facility features secure, age-specific classrooms, outdoor playgrounds with safety surfaces, and comprehensive security systems. Programs include regular developmental assessments, parent-teacher conferences, and enrichment activities including music and movement programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Hungerford, TX
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Hungerford, TX, and how do I verify their licensing status?
In Hungerford, TX, the primary licensed childcare options are licensed child care homes (often run in a provider's residence) and registered child care homes. Due to Hungerford's small, rural nature, large daycare centers are less common. All licensed providers are regulated by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). You can verify a provider's license, view inspection reports, and check for any violations by using the "Search Texas Child Care" tool on the DFPS website. It's crucial to verify this information, as it ensures the facility meets minimum state standards for health, safety, and caregiver qualifications.
What is the average cost for full-time daycare in Hungerford, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Hungerford area, full-time daycare costs are generally lower than in major Texas metros but can vary. For a licensed home daycare, you might expect to pay between $100 to $150 per week per child. Costs depend on the child's age and the services provided. For financial assistance, Texas Workforce Solutions (TWS) offers the Child Care Services (CCS) program for eligible families, which can subsidize costs. Eligibility is based on income, work or school attendance, and need. Given Hungerford's location in Wharton County, you would apply through the TWS office serving this region. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in Hungerford, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small community like Hungerford, waitlists can be significant, especially for infants and toddlers. It is not uncommon for popular licensed homes to have waitlists of 3 to 6 months, or even longer. We strongly recommend starting your search during pregnancy or at least 4-6 months before you need care. Be proactive: contact multiple providers, get on their waitlists (which may require a small fee), and check in periodically. Flexibility with your start date can also improve your chances of securing a spot sooner.
What are some local factors I should consider when choosing a daycare in Hungerford that are specific to this rural area?
Choosing daycare in a rural area like Hungerford involves unique considerations. First, inquire about their emergency preparedness plan for severe weather common to Southeast Texas and their protocol for power outages. Second, ask about transportation or field trips, as destinations (like libraries or parks) may be farther away. Third, understand their policy on farm or animal exposure if the home is on a rural property. Finally, given the close-knit community, ask for references from other local parents you may know; personal recommendations carry significant weight here. Also, consider the provider's flexibility with hours, as commuting to jobs in nearby cities like El Campo or Wharton is common.
Are there any part-time, drop-in, or after-school care options for school-age children in Hungerford?
Formal part-time or drop-in daycare options are very limited in Hungerford due to its size. Most licensed home daycares prioritize full-time, long-term enrollments. For school-age children, the primary after-school care option is typically provided by the local school district. You should contact the Hungerford Independent School District to inquire about their after-school program availability, hours, and costs. For occasional drop-in care, your best bet is to network with other parents in the community for potential babysitting swaps or to find a trusted, licensed home provider who may have occasional flexibility, though this is not guaranteed. Planning ahead is essential.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Hungerford: