The Best Daycare Centers in Chesterfield, NH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Chesterfield. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Chesterfield
The Goddard School of Keene
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Keene offers a play-based learning curriculum with a strong emphasis on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program focuses on fostering independence and creativity in a safe, nurturing environment. All teachers are highly qualified with degrees in early childhood education and undergo continuous training. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Parents praise the school's communication through daily reports and a dedicated app, as well as its focus on social-emotional development and school readiness.
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Bright Horizons at Keene
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Keene is known for its World at Their Fingers® curriculum, which integrates hands-on learning, literacy, and math skills tailored to each child's developmental stage. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and employs educators with early childhood credentials. Safety is prioritized with secured facilities, regular drills, and health protocols. The program includes nutritious meals, outdoor play spaces, and enrichment activities like music and art. Parents highlight the strong parent-teacher partnerships and the center's ability to prepare children for kindergarten through individualized learning plans.
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KinderCare at Keene
KinderCare Learning Companies
KinderCare at Keene provides a balanced learning approach through their Early Foundations® curriculum, which covers literacy, math, science, and social skills in a structured yet flexible environment. The center features certified teachers with ongoing professional development and emphasizes safety with keypad entry, clean facilities, and emergency preparedness. Programs include phonics-based reading, STEM activities, and outdoor play. Parents appreciate the consistent communication, inclusive atmosphere, and the center's focus on building confidence and resilience in children.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Chesterfield, NH
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Chesterfield, NH, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In New Hampshire, all childcare programs caring for more than three unrelated children must be licensed by the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Child Care Licensing Unit. This includes family childcare homes and childcare centers. Licensed providers in Chesterfield must meet strict standards for health and safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications, background checks, and facility safety. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the official "Child Care Search" tool on the NH DHHS website or contact the Child Care Licensing Unit directly. It's highly recommended to only consider licensed providers to ensure your child's safety and the quality of care.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers and preschools in the Chesterfield area, and when should I start looking?
Due to the rural nature of Chesterfield and limited local options, waitlists for licensed daycare centers and preschools can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 18 months, especially for infant and toddler spots. Many families in Chesterfield also look at options in nearby towns like West Chesterfield, Spofford, or even Hinsdale and Brattleboro, VT, which can have similar wait times. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as soon as you know you will need care, ideally during pregnancy or at least a year in advance. Contacting providers directly to inquire about their current list length and update policies is crucial.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare for an infant or toddler in Chesterfield, NH?
Childcare costs in Chesterfield and the surrounding Monadnock Region are variable but generally align with state averages. For a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $180 and $220 per week for full-time infant/toddler care. A childcare center, which is less common directly in Chesterfield but available in neighboring communities, typically costs between $220 and $280 per week. These rates are for full-time, 5-day care. It's important to note that New Hampshire offers financial assistance through the Child Care Scholarship Program for eligible families, which can significantly offset costs. Always inquire about what the weekly fee includes (meals, supplies, etc.).
Are there any state or local programs in Chesterfield that help parents find and afford quality childcare?
Yes, there are key state programs accessible to Chesterfield residents. The primary resource is **Spark NH’s Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) network**, which serves the region. You can contact them for personalized referrals to licensed providers in Chesterfield and the wider area. For financial assistance, the **New Hampshire Child Care Scholarship Program** (formerly Child Care Development Fund) helps income-eligible working families pay for care. Additionally, Chesterfield families may explore programs like **Head Start** or public preschool through the local SAU 29, though these typically serve children ages 3-5 and may have eligibility requirements. Starting your search with the CCR&R is highly recommended.
What are my options for childcare in Chesterfield if I need non-traditional hours, like evenings or weekends?
Finding non-traditional hours childcare in a small town like Chesterfield is particularly challenging, as most licensed family homes and centers operate on a standard weekday schedule (e.g., 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM). Your best options are to: 1) **Expand your search geographically** to larger nearby towns like Brattleboro, VT, or Keene, NH, where some centers or homes might offer extended hours. 2) **Seek a private nanny or babysitter** who can provide flexible in-home care; local community boards, Facebook groups (e.g., "Chesterfield, NH Community"), and word-of-mouth are key for this. 3) **Form a childcare co-op** with other local families needing similar hours. Be prepared that care during evenings, weekends, or overnight will likely come at a premium rate.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Chesterfield: