My son has been at Sunshine Ridge since he was 4 months old. He's now 4, and I truly cannot imagine a better place. The teachers know him better than some family members do. The Montessori learning centers are a huge bonus I wasn't expecting!
Families love Sunshine Ridge
Real stories from Benton families — and answers to the questions we hear most often from parents considering enrollment.
In their own words
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We were nervous about going back to work after maternity leave. Sunshine Ridge made the transition so smooth. They sent us photos all day. By Friday she was sleeping better than she ever had at home — they have their routines down perfectly.
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My daughter started kindergarten reading at a second-grade level. Her teacher asked what preschool she attended. We give full credit to the preschool team at Sunshine Ridge. It's real education wrapped in a fun, caring environment — not just daycare.
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The staff remembered my daughter's favorite song on her second day. That's the kind of detail that tells you everything about a place. We've never once worried about leaving her there. Five stars, every day.
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We've had three kids go through Sunshine Ridge. Each one left completely kindergarten-ready — confident, kind, and excited about school. We recommend them to every family we know in Benton.
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I was skeptical about the Montessori activities — I just wanted a safe place for my toddler. But watching him set the table, water the plants, and pour his own juice at 2 years old? I'm completely sold. It's practical magic.
Parents ask us all the time
- For infants: labeled formula or breast milk, diapers, wipes, 2–3 changes of clothing, and a favorite comfort item. For toddlers and preschoolers: a labeled backpack, 2 changes of clothing, and a water bottle. We provide everything else — meals, sunscreen, art supplies. A full supply list is sent after enrollment.
- Yes! We are an approved Arkansas Child Care Assistance Program provider. We also accept employer-sponsored childcare benefits and FSA/dependent care accounts. Contact us to walk through which financial assistance options may apply to your family.
- Yes. We hold a current Arkansas Department of Human Services childcare license and receive regular unannounced inspections. We maintain a 5-star rating through the Arkansas Better Beginnings quality rating system. Inspection reports are publicly available and posted in our lobby.
- We'll call you immediately if your child develops a fever over 100.4°F, vomits, or shows signs of illness that may affect other children. A parent or authorized pickup must arrive within one hour. Children may return after being symptom-free for 24 hours without medication. Our sick-child policy is provided in full at enrollment.
- Great question — and the honest answer is: it doesn't have to be. We blend Montessori principles (hands-on learning, child choice, practical life activities) into a familiar, friendly daycare routine. You get structured circle time, daily outdoor play, hot meals, and nap time — plus intentional Montessori activities that help kids learn real skills. It's the best of both worlds.
- Infant spots fill quickly — often 3–6 months in advance. Toddler and preschool spots are more available, especially mid-year. We recommend reaching out as early as possible, even if your start date is months away. Scheduling a tour is the first step to joining the waitlist if spots aren't immediately available.
Join the Sunshine Ridge family.
Schedule a free tour and see why so many Benton families call us home.
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