Child Care and Education in Chattanooga: how to choose
Choosing child care in Chattanooga is one of the more important decisions a family makes, and the process is easier when you know the types of care available. The specialty links on this page separate child care centers, preschools and Pre-K programs, before and after school care, Head Start and Early Head Start, and family child care homes, which are smaller programs run in a provider's residence.
Visit any program you are considering, ideally during a normal day. Ask to see the current license or registration and the most recent inspection report, ask about staff training and turnover, and watch how caregivers talk to the children. Ask about daily routines, meals, naps, discipline, and how they communicate with parents. Trust what you see and hear during the visit over anything on a brochure.
The programs below are located in or serve Chattanooga and the surrounding communities, including Hixson, East Brainerd, Ooltewah, Red Bank, Cleveland, and North Georgia. Nooga Local does not inspect programs, verify licenses, or rank them, so a listing here is a starting point for your own research.
What to look for
- A current license or registration you can see, and inspection reports you can read through the state's licensing agency.
- Caregivers who are warm, attentive, and engaged with the children, which is visible within minutes of a visit.
- Clear daily routines and age-appropriate activities, not just supervision.
- Safety basics such as secure entry, safe sleep practices for infants, and a plan for emergencies.
- Open communication with parents, including how you learn about your child's day and any incidents.
- Written policies on hours, fees, holidays, illness, and withdrawal so there are no surprises.