The Best Daycare Centers in East Andover, NH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in East Andover. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in East Andover
Andover Elementary School Preschool Program
Andover School District
This highly-regarded public school preschool program serves the Andover community with a comprehensive early childhood education approach. The program features state-certified early childhood educators, a play-based learning curriculum aligned with New Hampshire Early Learning Standards, and small class sizes with excellent teacher-to-student ratios. The facility includes dedicated preschool classrooms with age-appropriate learning centers, outdoor playgrounds designed for young children, and integrated technology resources. Parents consistently praise the program's strong focus on social-emotional development, kindergarten readiness skills, and the seamless transition to elementary education. The program maintains rigorous safety protocols including secure building access and regular safety drills.
Daycare Services:
The Children's Center of Concord
Non-profit Organization
As one of central New Hampshire's premier early childhood centers, The Children's Center of Concord serves families throughout Merrimack County including East Andover. This NAEYC-accredited facility employs highly-qualified early childhood educators with bachelor's degrees and specialized training in child development. The center implements a research-based curriculum emphasizing literacy development, STEM exploration, and creative expression through dedicated learning centers. Features include secure indoor environments with observation windows, natural outdoor play spaces, and comprehensive nutrition programs. The center is renowned for its low staff turnover, strong parent communication systems, and commitment to inclusive education practices. Safety features include electronic entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular facility inspections.
Daycare Services:
Little Sprouts Early Education Center
Little Sprouts LLC
This established early education center located in nearby Concord provides high-quality childcare services to families in the East Andover region. Little Sprouts employs a proprietary curriculum called "Brain Building" that combines play-based learning with structured academic preparation. The facility features bright, modern classrooms organized into learning pods, dedicated infant and toddler wings with separate nap areas, and extensive outdoor learning environments. Staff includes certified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development in emergent curriculum and trauma-informed care. The center emphasizes social-emotional learning, character development, and family engagement through regular portfolio assessments and parent conferences. Security measures include biometric entry systems, comprehensive emergency protocols, and real-time digital updates for parents.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in East Andover, NH
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in East Andover, NH, and how can I verify a provider's license?
In East Andover and all of New Hampshire, childcare providers caring for three or more 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, childcare centers, and preschools. Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications, and facility requirements. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the official "Child Care Search" tool on the NH DHHS website. This database allows you to search by town, including East Andover, and view the provider's license type, capacity, any history of compliance issues, and inspection reports. It's a crucial first step for any parent to ensure they are considering a legally operating and regulated facility.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers and in-home providers in East Andover, and when should I start looking?
Due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants and toddlers, waitlists in the East Andover area can be significant. It is not uncommon for popular centers or highly recommended family childcare homes to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. For infant care, it is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as your second trimester of pregnancy. For toddler or preschool openings, starting your search at least 4-6 months before your desired start date is a prudent minimum. Be proactive: contact multiple providers, ask specific questions about their list (e.g., "Where am I currently on the list?"), and consider putting down a (refundable) deposit to secure a spot. Exploring options in nearby towns like Andover, Franklin, or Wilmot may also increase your chances of finding timely care.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in East Andover, NH, and are there any local or state financial assistance programs?
The cost of childcare in East Andover is generally in line with statewide averages for rural/small-town New Hampshire. For a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay approximately $200-$250 per week for full-time infant/toddler care. Childcare centers typically range from $250 to $350+ per week. Preschool programs for 3-5-year-olds may have slightly lower weekly rates or offer part-time options. Financial assistance is available through the New Hampshire Child Care Scholarship (CCS) program, administered by the Department of Health and Human Services. Eligibility is based on family income, household size, and need (such as employment or school attendance). Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts. It's important to inquire directly with providers about their specific rates and any available discounts.
Are there any unique outdoor or nature-based childcare programs available in the East Andover area?
Yes, the rural and natural landscape of East Andover and the surrounding Lakes Region and Kearsarge area supports a growing interest in nature-based early education. While there may not be a dedicated "forest school" directly in East Andover, several providers in the region incorporate significant outdoor play and exploration into their daily routines, taking advantage of local fields, woods, and trails. Furthermore, you can find established nature-based preschools and programs within a reasonable driving distance in towns like New London, Warner, or Concord. When touring local providers, be sure to ask about their philosophy on outdoor time, their outdoor play space, and how often children are outside in all but the most extreme weather—a hallmark of nature-based care in New Hampshire.
What resources are available in East Andover to help me find and evaluate different childcare options?
A key local resource is the **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for New Hampshire, which is 603 Child Care Resource and Referral**. While not based in East Andover, they serve the entire state. You can contact them via their website or phone for a personalized referral list of licensed providers in the East Andover zip code and surrounding areas. They also offer guidance on what to look for during a visit and understanding quality indicators. Locally, the **East Andover Village Precinct** or community Facebook groups (e.g., "East Andover, NH Community") can be invaluable for getting personal recommendations and experiences from other parents. Finally, always schedule in-person tours, prepare a list of questions about curriculum, safety, communication, and policies, and trust your instincts about the environment and the connection with the caregivers.