The Best Daycare Centers in Leona, TX
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Leona. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Leona
Kiddie Academy of Madisonville
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Madisonville is a highly-rated educational childcare center serving the Leona area with a comprehensive Life Essentials curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and social-emotional learning. The center features state-certified teachers with early childhood education credentials, secure keypad entry systems, and age-appropriate learning environments. Their program includes daily progress reports, nutritious meals and snacks, and extensive indoor and outdoor play areas. The center stands out for its strong emphasis on school readiness and developmentally appropriate practices for each age group.
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The Learning Tree Academy
The Learning Tree Academy
The Learning Tree Academy provides exceptional early childhood education with a research-based curriculum that balances academic preparation and social development. The center features low student-teacher ratios, degreed lead teachers, and comprehensive safety protocols including secure check-in systems and monitored playgrounds. Their program includes Spanish language exposure, music and movement activities, and hands-on learning experiences. The academy is known for its family-oriented approach, regular parent-teacher conferences, and commitment to creating a nurturing environment that fosters curiosity and lifelong learning.
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Primrose School of Huntsville
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Huntsville is a nationally accredited early education center serving families in the Leona region with their exclusive Balanced Learning approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from master's-level curriculum developers. The school features highly qualified teachers with early childhood certifications, secure facility protocols, and innovative learning environments including dedicated STEM labs and literacy centers. Their program emphasizes character development, bilingual curriculum options, and hands-on learning experiences. The school stands out for its outstanding parent communication system, nutritious chef-prepared meals, and commitment to developing the whole child through a balanced curriculum.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Leona, TX
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Leona, Texas, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Leona, Texas, all licensed daycare centers and registered family homes must comply with the Texas Health and Human Services (HHS) Child Care Licensing (CCL) standards. These regulations cover staff-to-child ratios, background checks for all employees, health and safety inspections, and required training in areas like CPR and first aid. To verify a facility's compliance and view its latest inspection reports, you can use the Texas HHS "Search for Child Care" online tool. This public database is crucial for parents in our small community, as it provides transparency. You can also contact the local CCL office for Region 7, which serves Leon County, for additional information.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Leona, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Leona and the surrounding Leon County area, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from $450 to $650 per month. For toddlers, costs are slightly lower, averaging $400 to $550 per month. These rates are generally more affordable than in larger Texas metropolitan areas but can vary based on the type of care (center-based vs. home-based) and specific programs offered. For financial assistance, Texas Workforce Solutions (TWS) administers the Child Care Services (CCS) program for eligible families based on income, work, or school attendance requirements. Parents in Leona can apply through the TWS Heart of Texas Workforce Development Board, which serves our region.
Are there any licensed daycare centers with extended hours or weekend care options in Leona to accommodate non-traditional work schedules?
Due to Leona's small, rural nature, traditional daycare center hours (typically 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday-Friday) are the standard. There are currently no licensed daycare centers in Leona proper that advertise regular overnight, late-night, or weekend hours. For parents with non-traditional schedules (e.g., shift work in nearby Centerville or Huntsville), the most common solution is to seek a registered or listed family home provider who may offer more flexible hours by private arrangement. Expanding your search to neighboring communities like Buffalo or Centerville might yield a few more flexible options, but planning ahead and joining local community Facebook groups (e.g., "Leona, TX Community") to ask for provider recommendations is often essential.
How long are waitlists for daycare in Leona, and what should I do to secure a spot for my child?
For the limited number of licensed daycare options in Leona, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant rooms, and it's not uncommon for families to wait 3 to 6 months or more for an opening. Given the limited supply, it is highly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. Contact providers directly to inquire about their specific waitlist procedures; some may require a non-refundable deposit to hold a spot. Being flexible with your start date can also help. Don't hesitate to also get on waitlists for reputable providers in nearby towns like Oakwood or Normangee to increase your chances.
What types of preschool or early learning programs are integrated into daycare services in Leona?
Several licensed daycare providers in and around Leona incorporate early learning curricula into their programs for children aged 3-5. These often align with Texas Early Learning Guidelines and focus on school readiness skills like basic literacy, numeracy, social skills, and motor development. Some providers may use structured programs like Mother Goose Time or Creative Curriculum. Given the proximity to the Centerville Independent School District, some local providers may also coordinate with the district's pre-kindergarten (Pre-K) guidelines. It's important to ask specific providers about their daily schedule, learning objectives, and teacher qualifications. For a more formal preschool experience, parents sometimes consider part-time programs at local churches or the Head Start program in neighboring counties, which may require separate enrollment from full-time daycare.