The Best Daycare Centers in Norton, TX
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Norton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Norton
Primrose School of Lubbock Southwest
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Lubbock Southwest offers a balanced learning approach through their exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum, combining purposeful play with nurturing guidance from educated teachers. The school features structured learning environments with dedicated classrooms for each age group, secure entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, interactive learning centers, and nutritious meal programs. Serving families throughout the South Plains region, they provide transportation options for school-age children and maintain low student-teacher ratios to ensure individualized attention.
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The Goddard School of Lubbock
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Lubbock implements the Goddard Life Skills and F.L.E.X.® Learning Program, focusing on academic, social, and emotional development through play-based learning. The center features secure facilities with keypad entry, live streaming capabilities for parents, and comprehensive background checks for all staff. Certified teachers create individualized learning plans and maintain detailed progress reports. The school offers STEAM enrichment programs, foreign language exposure, and yoga/mindfulness activities. With spacious classrooms, multiple playgrounds, and dedicated art and music areas, they provide a well-rounded early education experience for children from Norton and surrounding communities.
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Kiddie Kottage of Lubbock
Independent
Kiddie Kottage of Lubbock provides a family-oriented childcare environment with a structured educational program that balances academic preparation and social development. The center utilizes Creative Curriculum® supplemented with phonics, mathematics, and science activities tailored to each age group. Safety features include secured premises, surveillance systems, and strict pick-up authorization protocols. Experienced teachers maintain Texas minimum standards plus additional training in early childhood development. The facility offers separate nurseries for infants, age-specific classrooms, shaded outdoor play areas, and homemade nutritional meals. Serving Norton area families with flexible scheduling options and reasonable rates while maintaining small class sizes for personalized attention.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Norton, TX
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Norton, Texas, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Norton, Texas, all daycare centers and registered family homes must be licensed by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). This licensing ensures they meet minimum standards for health, safety, caregiver-to-child ratios, and staff background checks. For home-based care, smaller "listed family homes" (caring for up to 3 children) are only required to be registered, not fully licensed. You can verify the license status, view inspection reports, and check for any violations of any provider by using the DFPS "Child Care Search" tool online. It's highly recommended to search for any Norton facility by name or zip code (79541) before enrolling your child.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Norton, TX?
Childcare costs in Norton are generally lower than in major Texas metropolitan areas, but they can vary based on the type of care. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay an average of $450 to $650 per month for full-time care for an infant or toddler. Registered family homes often offer more affordable rates, typically ranging from $350 to $500 per month. Some providers may charge weekly rates instead. It's important to ask what is included in the fee (e.g., meals, diapers, educational curriculum) and if there are any additional costs for registration, supplies, or late pick-up.
Are there any subsidized childcare or financial assistance programs available for families in Norton?
Yes, eligible families in Norton can apply for financial assistance through the Texas Workforce Commission's (TWC) Child Care Services program. This subsidy helps low-income families who are working, attending school, or in job training afford licensed or registered childcare. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. You can apply through the TWC website or contact the local Workforce Solutions office that serves Runnels County for guidance. Additionally, some local churches or community organizations in the Norton area may offer limited scholarships or sliding-scale fees, so it's worth inquiring directly with providers.
How common are waitlists for daycare in Norton, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the smaller number of providers in a rural community like Norton, quality daycare spots, especially for infants, can be limited and may involve waitlists. It's not uncommon for popular centers or highly recommended home providers to have waitlists of several months. To secure a spot, start your search early—ideally during pregnancy or 3-6 months before you need care. Contact multiple providers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee in some cases. Staying in regular, polite contact with the provider can also help. Exploring options in nearby towns like Ballinger might be necessary if local waitlists are too long.
What are some key local factors to consider when touring a daycare in Norton, TX?
When touring daycares in Norton, beyond standard safety checks, consider factors unique to the area. First, inquire about their plan for severe weather, such as tornadoes, which are a risk in North Texas. Ask about their outdoor play policy during very hot summers and whether shaded areas are available. Given the agricultural surroundings, ask about their policies on field trips or interactions with local animals/farms if applicable. Also, due to the tight-knit community, ask for references from other local parents you might know. Finally, check their transportation policies if they offer school pickup for older siblings from Norton Elementary, as this can be a major convenience for working parents.