The Best Daycare Centers in Gilford, NH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Gilford. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Gilford
The Children's Center at the Lakes Region
Independent
The Children's Center at the Lakes Region is a highly-regarded NAEYC-accredited facility serving Gilford and surrounding communities. They employ a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation, focusing on social-emotional development and kindergarten readiness. All lead teachers hold bachelor's degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the center maintains low student-teacher ratios. The facility features secure access controls, comprehensive safety protocols, and age-appropriate outdoor play spaces. Their curriculum includes STEM activities, literacy development, and creative arts, with regular progress reports and parent-teacher conferences.
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Kids Konnection Early Learning Center
Independent
Kids Konnection Early Learning Center serves the Gilford area with a comprehensive developmental curriculum that balances structured learning with child-directed play. The center is licensed by the State of New Hampshire and features certified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development. Their program includes music and movement, early literacy, mathematics readiness, and social skills development. The facility maintains strict security measures including coded entry systems, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and regular safety drills. Parents appreciate the consistent communication through daily reports and the center's focus on creating a nurturing, inclusive environment.
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Meredith Bay Colony Club & Day School
Independent
Meredith Bay Colony Club & Day School serves families throughout the Lakes Region including Gilford with a premium early education program. Their curriculum integrates Montessori principles with traditional early childhood education, emphasizing individualized learning plans and hands-on exploration. The facility features modern classrooms, extensive outdoor learning environments, and specialized learning centers for art, music, and STEM. All teaching staff hold early childhood certifications with many possessing advanced degrees. The center is known for its strong parent partnership model, nutritious meal program, and comprehensive safety protocols including 24/7 security monitoring and strict health and hygiene standards.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Gilford, NH
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Gilford, NH, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Gilford, NH, the cost of full-time daycare or preschool varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For an infant, you can expect to pay between $1,200 to $1,600 per month. For toddlers and preschoolers, costs typically range from $1,000 to $1,400 per month. These rates are influenced by factors such as staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, and facility amenities. For financial assistance, New Hampshire's Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) administers the Child Care Scholarship Program for eligible families based on income and need. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's advisable to contact providers directly and inquire about specific aid options, as well as check with the Belknap County Community Action Program (BCCAP) for potential local support resources.
How long are waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Gilford, and what can I do to secure a spot for my child?
Waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Gilford can be significant, especially for infant care, where waits of 6 to 12 months are not uncommon. For toddler and preschool slots, wait times may be shorter, around 3 to 6 months, but this varies by provider. To secure a spot, start your search early—ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. Contact multiple centers to get on their waitlists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee, which is typical in the area. Follow up with providers every few months to express continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to nearby towns like Laconia or Meredith, which may have more availability, and explore licensed family childcare homes in Gilford, as they often have smaller waitlists.
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Gilford, NH, and how can I verify a provider's license?
In New Hampshire, all childcare providers caring for more than three unrelated children must be licensed by the NH Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Child Care Licensing Unit. Licensing requirements include background checks for all staff, health and safety inspections of the facility, age-appropriate curriculum planning, and ongoing training in areas like CPR and first aid. To verify a provider's license in Gilford, you can use the NH Child Care Search tool on the DHHS website, which allows you to search by location and view licensing status, inspection reports, and any compliance history. You can also contact the Child Care Licensing Unit directly at (603) 271-4595. Always ask providers for their license number and check for current standing before enrolling your child.
Are there seasonal or summer childcare options available in Gilford for school-aged children?
Yes, Gilford offers several seasonal and summer childcare options for school-aged children. The Gilford Parks and Recreation Department typically runs a popular summer camp program at various local parks, which includes activities like sports, crafts, and field trips. Additionally, some local daycare centers and preschools, such as those in the Gilford area, may offer summer programs for older children. Other options include specialized camps in the Lakes Region, such as those focused on outdoor adventures or arts. It's important to register early, as these programs fill up quickly. For year-round before- and after-school care, check with the Gilford School District for partnerships with local providers or on-site programs at Gilford Elementary School.
What should I look for when touring a daycare facility in Gilford, and are there any local resources to help with the selection process?
When touring a daycare facility in Gilford, look for key indicators of quality: a clean and safe environment with secure entrances, age-appropriate toys and learning materials, and a low staff-to-child ratio (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:10 for preschoolers per NH guidelines). Observe interactions between staff and children—they should be warm and engaging. Ask about their curriculum, daily routines, and policies on communication, sick children, and nutrition. Check for outdoor play areas and inquire about staff qualifications and turnover rates. For local resources, contact the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for New Hampshire, which serves Belknap County and can provide referrals and quality checklists. Also, consider joining local parent groups on social media, such as "Gilford, NH Community" pages, for firsthand recommendations and reviews.