2 minute read

For many working parents in Conway, a recent Facebook post struck a chord:

“Are there any daycares in Conway open past 5:30 p.m.? My new job runs later and I’m in a bind.”

The post quickly filled with sympathetic comments and shared frustrations, revealing a common concern among local families—finding childcare that fits modern work schedules.

⏰ The Core Issue: Early Closing Hours

Most daycares in Conway close between 5:00 and 5:30 p.m., a reality that’s out of sync with shift workers, single parents, and commuters returning from Little Rock or beyond.

Parents shared comments like:

“It’s been a nightmare trying to find someone who can watch my son until 6:30.”
“Even the after-school programs shut down too early for me to make it in time.”

The result? Some families have had to juggle neighbors, grandparents, or backup sitters just to cover that last hour of the workday.

🏫 Daycares With Later Hours or Flexible Options

While limited, some centers offer extended pickup—or at least flexibility for special circumstances. Based on community replies and available info, here are a few options:

1. Childcare Network – Conway

📍 Link
This national chain has a location on Prince Street and was mentioned for structured care and a later closing time (6:00 p.m.), depending on the child’s age.

“They’re one of the few that stays open later—my lifesaver.”

2. First United Methodist CDC

📍 Link
While they close at 5:30 p.m., some parents noted understanding staff who work with families during transition periods or emergencies.

“They’ve always been compassionate and flexible with me.”

3. In-Home Providers (DHS Certified)

Many families recommended checking the Arkansas Childcare Locator for in-home providers, which often have more flexible hours and smaller class sizes.

“Our sitter is licensed and watches kids until 7:00 p.m. Love her!”

🧭 Tips for Parents Searching Late Pickup Options

  • Start with Facebook parent groups
  • Use the Arkansas Better Beginnings site to filter care centers by hours.
  • Ask about late fees or grace periods—some places charge per minute after closing.
  • Consider after-school programs (like those offered by Conway Parks & Rec) for older kids.

💬 What Parents Are Asking For

The thread also revealed growing demand for more flexible childcare models in Conway, such as:

  • Drop-in or part-time care
  • Evening or weekend hours
  • Employer-sponsored or co-op daycare solutions

Some parents even expressed interest in starting their own childcare centers, citing the unmet need.

“There’s a real gap here. If someone opened a 6:30 p.m. pickup daycare, they’d be full in a week.”

🍼 The Bottom Line

The daycare dilemma is real for Conway families—especially those with non-traditional schedules. While options exist, many parents are hoping to see more adaptive and inclusive solutions in the months and years ahead.

Are you a provider with extended hours? Or a parent juggling after-hours care? Share your experience in the comments—we’re compiling a full directory of Conway childcare resources.

Updated:

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