The Best Daycare Centers in Lumberport, WV
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lumberport. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lumberport
Shinnston Head Start Center
Harrison County Community Action Corporation
Shinnston Head Start Center provides comprehensive early childhood education and development services for children from low-income families. The center follows the federally-funded Head Start curriculum focused on school readiness, social-emotional development, and cognitive skills. Certified teachers implement developmentally appropriate practices with small class sizes and individualized attention. The program includes health screenings, nutritious meals, family support services, and parent involvement opportunities. Their holistic approach addresses all aspects of child development while maintaining high safety standards and qualified teaching staff with early childhood credentials.
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Little Learners Academy
Independent
Little Learners Academy offers a comprehensive early childhood program with a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation. The center features age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and modern learning materials. Their curriculum includes literacy development, STEM activities, creative arts, and social skills building. All teachers hold early childhood education credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. The facility maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios, secure entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. Parents particularly praise the center's communication, nurturing environment, and preparation for kindergarten transition.
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Stepping Stones Early Learning Center
Independent
Stepping Stones Early Learning Center provides quality childcare with a balanced approach to education and development. The center implements Creative Curriculum with focus on individualized learning plans and developmental milestones tracking. Features include secure indoor environments, age-appropriate learning centers, outdoor playgrounds, and nutritious meal programs. Staff members hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing training in child development and safety procedures. The center maintains excellent communication with parents through daily reports and regular conferences. Their program emphasizes social-emotional development alongside academic readiness skills in a nurturing, structured environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lumberport, WV
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Lumberport, WV, and how do I verify their licensing status?
In Lumberport and the surrounding Harrison County area, your primary licensed options are family childcare homes (in a provider's residence, typically for smaller groups) and childcare centers. Due to Lumberport's size, you may also find registered family childcare, which has slightly different regulations. To verify the licensing status of any provider, you must contact the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR), specifically the Bureau for Children and Families. You can search their online provider database or call the local DHHR office. Always confirm that a provider's license is current and in good standing, and ask about any recent inspection reports. This is a critical first step for safety and quality assurance.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in the Lumberport area, and when should I start looking for care?
Waitlists in Lumberport and nearby communities like Shinnston or Clarksburg can vary significantly. For infant care, which has the strictest staff-to-child ratios, waitlists of 6 to 12 months are not uncommon. For toddler and preschool-aged children, waitlists may be shorter, around 3 to 6 months. Given the limited number of facilities in a small town like Lumberport, it is highly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists as soon as you know you will need care, ideally during pregnancy for an infant spot. Don't hesitate to get on multiple lists and check in periodically for updates.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare for an infant or toddler in Lumberport, WV?
Costs in Lumberport are generally lower than state or national averages but are relative to local incomes. For a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $120 and $160 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. A childcare center in a nearby larger town may range from $140 to $180 per week. These are estimates, and rates can vary based on the provider's amenities, curriculum, and hours of operation. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate (e.g., meals, diapers, wipes). Also, be sure to inquire about the West Virginia Child Care Program, which provides subsidy assistance to eligible families to help offset these costs.
Are there any state or local programs in West Virginia that can help me pay for childcare while I work or attend school?
Yes, the primary program is the West Virginia Child Care Program (WVCCP), administered by the DHHR. This subsidy program helps eligible low- and moderate-income families who are working, attending job training, or enrolled in an educational program pay for licensed or registered childcare. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. You can apply through your local DHHR office. Additionally, some providers may offer sliding scale fees based on income. For parents pursuing higher education, it's also worth checking with institutions like Fairmont State University or Pierpont Community & Technical College about any campus-specific childcare resources or referral services.
What are the key questions I should ask a potential daycare provider during a tour in Lumberport, given West Virginia's specific regulations?
Beyond general questions about daily routines and safety, focus on WV-specific and local practicalities. Key questions include: 1) "What is your staff's current certification in Pediatric First Aid and CPR, as required by WV DHHR?" 2) "Can you explain your sick child policy and how it aligns with WV's exclusion guidelines for illness?" 3) "What is your plan for emergency situations, and how do you practice drills (tornado, lockdown)?" 4) "How do you handle food? Are you part of the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program, which many WV providers use?" 5) "What is your staff turnover rate?" In a small community, low turnover often indicates a stable, positive environment. Also, ask for references from other local parents.