The Best Preschools in Charleston, MS
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Charleston. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
God's Little Children Daycare & Preschool
Independent
God's Little Children is a highly-regarded local preschool and daycare center serving the Charleston community with comprehensive early childhood education programs. The facility maintains excellent state licensing standards and focuses on developmental learning through structured curriculum and play-based activities. Parents consistently praise the caring, qualified staff and safe, nurturing environment. The center offers full-day programs with age-appropriate educational activities and maintains small class sizes for personalized attention.
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Kiddie Korner Child Development Center
Independent
Located in nearby Batesville, Kiddie Korner serves families throughout Tallahatchie County including Charleston residents. The center features a well-developed early learning curriculum that prepares children for kindergarten success through literacy development, social skills building, and cognitive development activities. The facility maintains excellent safety records and employs qualified early childhood educators. Parents report high satisfaction with the center's communication, clean facilities, and engaging educational environment.
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First Baptist Church Preschool
First Baptist Church of Charleston
First Baptist Church Preschool provides quality early childhood education with a Christian foundation to the Charleston community. The program focuses on holistic child development through structured learning activities, social interaction, and faith-based values. The preschool maintains small teacher-to-student ratios and features experienced educators with early childhood certifications. The facility is known for its safe, welcoming environment and strong emphasis on kindergarten preparation through literacy and numeracy development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Charleston, MS:
What are the typical costs for preschool in Charleston, Mississippi?
In Charleston, preschool costs can vary significantly. Tuition at private centers typically ranges from $100 to $250 per week, while publicly funded options like the Early Learning Collaboratives or Head Start programs in Tallahatchie County are free or low-cost for qualifying families. It's important to inquire directly with local providers about their specific fee structures and any available scholarships.
How can I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Charleston?
All licensed childcare facilities in Mississippi are regulated by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH). You can search for a specific Charleston preschool's licensing status, inspection reports, and any compliance history on the MSDH website. Additionally, you can ask the director if they participate in Mississippi's Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS), known as "Build UP," which assesses program quality.
What types of preschool programs are available in Charleston, MS?
Options in Charleston include private, faith-based preschools, state-funded Pre-K programs through the local public school district or Early Learning Collaboratives, and federally funded Head Start programs. Given the rural nature of the area, some families may also consider licensed home-based childcare or programs in nearby towns like Batesville if local choices are limited.
When should I apply, and what is the enrollment process like for Charleston preschools?
Enrollment timelines are critical, especially for limited-seat public programs. For state Pre-K and Head Start, applications often open in early spring for the following fall. Private preschools may have rolling enrollment but fill quickly. Contact the Charleston Elementary School district office for public Pre-K details and visit or call private centers directly to get on their interest lists as early as possible.
What should I look for regarding safety and curriculum during a preschool visit in Charleston?
During a visit, confirm the facility meets MSDH licensing standards for staff-to-child ratios, secure premises, and emergency plans. Ask about the curriculum's approach to early literacy and math, which is a focus of Mississippi's Early Learning Standards. Observe if the environment is engaging and how teachers interact with children to support social-emotional development, a key foundation for kindergarten readiness in the local schools.
Nearby Cities
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