The Best Daycare Centers in Grantham, NH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Grantham. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Grantham
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in nearby Lebanon serves Grantham families with a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social development. Their play-based curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. All teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, modern classrooms with dedicated learning centers. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and provide daily communication through their proprietary app. The school is known for its structured yet nurturing environment that prepares children for kindergarten while fostering individual growth.
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Creative Kids Preschool
Independent
Creative Kids Preschool serves the Grantham area with a nature-inspired, play-based curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning and social-emotional development. Their approach combines Montessori principles with emergent curriculum, allowing children to explore interests while building foundational academic skills. The center features an extensive outdoor classroom with gardens, natural play spaces, and environmental education. Teachers are certified in early childhood education and trained in responsive classroom techniques. The program focuses on developing creativity, problem-solving skills, and independence through project-based learning. Parents consistently praise the warm, family-like atmosphere and the staff's dedication to each child's individual needs.
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Kiddie Academy of Lebanon
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Lebanon provides educational childcare to Grantham families through their Life Essentials® curriculum, which integrates character development with academic preparation. The program focuses on STEM activities, literacy development, and social skills through structured learning centers and guided play. The facility includes secure keypad entry, commercial-grade air purification systems, and age-specific learning environments. All teachers are CPR and First Aid certified with background checks, and the center maintains state-mandated ratios. Their technology-enhanced communication system keeps parents informed about daily activities and developmental progress. The academy is particularly noted for its balanced approach that combines structured learning with ample opportunities for creative expression and physical activity.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Grantham, NH
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Grantham, NH?
In Grantham and the surrounding Upper Valley region, full-time daycare costs are generally in line with New Hampshire averages, which are among the highest in the nation. For an infant (under 18 months), you can expect to pay between $1,400 and $1,800 per month for a licensed center. For a toddler (18 months to 3 years), costs typically range from $1,200 to $1,600 per month. Home-based family childcare programs in the area may be slightly less, often ranging from $900 to $1,300 monthly. It's important to note that Grantham's proximity to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center and Dartmouth College can influence demand and pricing. We recommend contacting providers directly for their most current rates and inquiring about any available sibling discounts or financial assistance programs like the NH Child Care Scholarship.
How long are waitlists for daycare centers in Grantham, and when should I start looking?
Due to high demand and limited licensed childcare slots in the Grantham area, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant care. It is not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer for infants. For families planning to use daycare, we strongly recommend beginning your search and getting on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during the first trimester of pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before your needed start date. Be sure to ask providers about their specific waitlist policies, including any non-refundable fees to hold a spot and how often you need to check in to remain active on the list. Exploring options in neighboring towns like Newport, Sunapee, or Springfield, VT, may also provide more availability.
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in New Hampshire, and how can I verify a provider's status?
All childcare providers caring for three or more unrelated children in New Hampshire must be licensed by the NH Department of Health and Human Services, Child Care Licensing Unit. Licensed providers must meet strict standards for health, safety, staff qualifications (including background checks and training in CPR/First Aid), child-to-staff ratios, and program curriculum. You can easily verify the license status, view inspection reports, and check for any compliance history of any provider in Grantham by using the "Child Care Search" tool on the official NH DHHS website. This is a critical step for parents to ensure they are choosing a legally operating and regulated program that meets state safety standards.
Are there any unique childcare options or resources in Grantham that cater to families with non-traditional work schedules?
Grantham's childcare landscape is primarily composed of traditional center-based and family childcare homes operating on standard weekday hours (typically 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM). Options for evenings, overnight, or weekend care are extremely limited within the town itself. However, given the number of healthcare and service industry workers in the region, some providers in the broader Upper Valley may offer more flexible arrangements. Your best resource is the "2-1-1 NH" helpline or website, which can connect you with specialized referral services. Additionally, forming a nanny-share with another local family or hiring a private in-home caregiver may be the most viable solution for those requiring non-standard hours in Grantham.
What should I look for during a tour of a daycare center or family childcare home in Grantham?
When touring a potential childcare provider in Grantham, go beyond the basics. First, observe the environment: Is it clean, safe, and well-organized? Do the children seem engaged and happy? Ask specific questions about their daily routine, philosophy on discipline and learning, and how they handle emergencies. Inquire about staff tenure—low turnover is a positive sign of a stable environment. Given New Hampshire's weather, ask about their policy for outdoor play in winter and summer and inspect their outdoor play area for safety. Finally, ask for references from current parents. A reputable provider in Grantham will be transparent and welcome these questions, understanding that parents are making a crucial decision for their child's well-being.