The Best Daycare Centers in Candia, NH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Candia. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Candia
KinderCare Learning Center at Manchester
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare in Manchester is a highly-rated childcare center known for its research-based educational curriculum, including the Early Foundations® program that focuses on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and employs qualified staff with backgrounds in early childhood education. Safety is prioritized with secure entry systems, regular health checks, and CPR-certified teachers. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play areas, and learning centers that encourage exploration. Parent satisfaction is high due to consistent communication through daily reports and family engagement events, making it a trusted choice for families in the Candia area.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Hooksett
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Hooksett offers a play-based learning approach integrated with the F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum, which emphasizes STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) activities and character development. Staff are highly qualified with degrees in early childhood education and ongoing professional development. The center features secure facilities with keypad entry, sanitization protocols, and fenced playgrounds. Parents appreciate the individualized attention, real-time updates via mobile app, and focus on preparing children for kindergarten. Its proximity to Candia and strong community reputation make it a popular option for comprehensive childcare.
Daycare Services:
Bright Horizons at Bedford
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons in Bedford is renowned for its World at Their Fingertips® curriculum, which promotes hands-on learning, literacy, and global awareness through project-based activities. The center employs educated teachers with specialized training in child development and maintains high safety standards with background-checked staff and emergency preparedness drills. Facilities include stimulating indoor environments and natural outdoor spaces for physical activity. The center emphasizes parent partnerships with regular conferences and digital portfolios tracking developmental milestones. Its accreditation by NAEYC and flexible scheduling options cater to working families in Candia and surrounding communities.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Candia, NH
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available to families in Candia, NH?
In Candia, parents typically have three main licensed options: licensed family childcare homes, licensed childcare centers, and licensed preschool programs. Family childcare homes are small, home-based settings, often ideal for infants and toddlers seeking a family-like environment. There are a few such providers in and around Candia. For center-based care, many Candia families look to nearby towns like Manchester, Hooksett, or Auburn, which host larger facilities offering structured programs for various age groups. The state also licenses "Approved Relative Child Care" for care by a qualified relative. All licensed providers in New Hampshire are regulated by the NH Department of Health and Human Services, Child Care Licensing Unit, which sets standards for safety, staff qualifications, and program quality. You can search the state's official online database for a complete list of licensed providers in Rockingham County.
How long are typical waitlists for infant care in Candia, and how should I plan ahead?
Due to high demand and strict infant-to-staff ratios (4:1 in NH), waitlists for infant care (children under 18 months) in the Candia area can be significant. It is not uncommon for families to encounter waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer for the most sought-after providers. We strongly recommend that expecting parents in Candia begin researching and contacting potential childcare options as early as the second trimester of pregnancy. Be prepared to place a deposit to secure a spot on a waitlist. When inquiring, ask specifically about the current infant waitlist length, the deposit policy (often non-refundable), and how often the list is updated. Exploring a combination of local family childcare homes and centers in neighboring towns can increase your chances of finding an opening.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare for a toddler in Candia, NH?
Childcare costs in Candia are generally reflective of the broader southern New Hampshire region. For full-time care (approximately 45-50 hours per week) for a toddler (ages 18-36 months), parents can expect to pay between $250 and $350 per week. Licensed family childcare homes in Candia may often be on the lower end of that range, while centers in nearby commercial areas tend to be on the higher end. These costs typically do not include supplies, registration fees, or meals (though some providers include them). It's important to note that New Hampshire offers financial assistance through the Child Care Scholarship Program for eligible families, which can significantly offset these costs based on income and need.
Are there any state or local resources specific to Candia that help parents find and evaluate childcare?
Yes, there are key state and local resources. The primary resource is **Child Care Aware of New Hampshire**, a nonprofit that offers a free, personalized referral service. You can call them or use their online search tool to find licensed providers in Candia and surrounding zip codes. They can also provide guidance on what to look for during a visit and questions to ask. Locally, the **Candia Public Library** can be a helpful community hub for finding bulletin board postings or word-of-mouth recommendations for smaller, home-based providers. Additionally, the **Town of Candia website** may list community resources or partner with regional family support organizations. For verifying licensing status and any history of compliance issues, always consult the official NH DHHS Child Care Licensing website.
What are the key questions I should ask a potential daycare provider during a tour in the Candia area?
Beyond general questions about curriculum and daily routines, ask specific questions relevant to New Hampshire regulations and local logistics. Essential questions include: "What is your provider's license number, and may I see your most recent licensing report from the state?" (This ensures they are in good standing). "What is your policy and procedure for emergency situations, and how do you communicate with parents during events like snow delays or closures common in our area?" "Can you detail your staff's qualifications and what ongoing training they receive, as required by NH rules?" "What is your sick policy, and how do you handle common childhood illnesses to prevent spread?" Finally, for practicalities, ask: "What is your drop-off and pick-up window, and is there flexibility for parents commuting to Manchester or other employment centers?" Getting clear answers to these will help you assess safety, quality, and compatibility with your family's needs.