Daycare in Arkansas
Find licensed daycare centers and home-based childcare providers across Arkansas. Browse by city or use our search to find options near you.
Average Daycare Costs in Arkansas
* Costs vary by location, facility type, and program. These are state averages for full-time care.
Browse by City
Select a city to view licensed daycare providers in that area.
Don't see your city? Use the search at the top of the page or contact us to request your area.
Types of Daycare in Arkansas
Licensed Daycare Centers
Commercial facilities licensed by Arkansas to provide group childcare. Centers must meet state standards for safety, staff qualifications, and child-to-staff ratios.
- • State-licensed and inspected
- • Structured educational programs
- • Multiple age-appropriate classrooms
- • Full-time and part-time options
Family Childcare Homes
Licensed providers who care for children in their home. Arkansas regulates home-based providers to ensure safe environments and appropriate care.
- • Home-like environment
- • Smaller group sizes
- • Often more flexible schedules
- • Mixed age groups
Arkansas Licensing Agency
Required Staff Ratios
| Age Group | Arkansas Requires | NAEYC Recommends |
|---|---|---|
| Infants | 1:6 | 1:3 |
| Toddlers | 1:8 | 1:4 |
| Preschool | 1:12 | 1:8 |
| School Age | 1:15 | 1:10 |
Arkansas has more lenient infant ratios (1:6) than most states.
Childcare Assistance
Child Care Assistance
Administered by: DHS
Income Eligibility
85% of State Median Income
Quality Rating System
Better Beginnings
Arkansas uses a 3-level quality rating system. Look for rated providers for assurance of quality.
Find rated providersState Pre-K Program
Arkansas Better Chance
Who qualifies: 3 and 4-year-olds
Income: 200% of Federal Poverty Level
Learn more about Pre-KReady to Start Your Search?
Use our calculator to estimate daycare costs in Arkansas, then explore our guide to choosing the right provider.