The Best Daycare Centers in Hanover, NH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Hanover. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Hanover
Dartmouth College Child Care Center
Dartmouth College
As part of Dartmouth College, this highly-regarded childcare center offers a developmental, play-based curriculum with a strong focus on social-emotional learning and cognitive development. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, highly qualified early childhood educators with bachelor's and master's degrees, and a research-informed approach to early education. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, extensive outdoor play spaces, and nutritious meal programs. The center maintains NAEYC accreditation and serves both Dartmouth affiliates and community families, with particular strength in creating inclusive, diverse learning environments.
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The Children's Center at Dartmouth-Hitchcock
Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center
Located just minutes from Hanover at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, this NAEYC-accredited center serves the broader Upper Valley community with exceptional early childhood programming. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, literacy development, and STEM exploration through project-based activities. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, comprehensive health and safety protocols, and highly trained staff with ongoing professional development. Special programs include nature-based outdoor learning, music enrichment, and family engagement events. The center is particularly noted for its diverse, inclusive environment and strong parent communication systems.
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The Norwich Children's Center
Independent Nonprofit
Serving families throughout the Hanover region from just across the Connecticut River in Norwich, this nonprofit center offers a Reggio Emilia-inspired approach that emphasizes child-directed learning and creative expression. The program features natural, well-equipped classrooms, extensive outdoor exploration areas including gardens and nature trails, and a play-based curriculum that fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Staff include experienced early childhood educators with specialized training in emergent curriculum and social-emotional development. The center is known for its strong community partnerships, parent involvement programs, and commitment to environmental education and sustainability practices.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Hanover, NH
What is the typical cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Hanover, NH, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Hanover, NH, full-time daycare for infants and toddlers typically ranges from $1,400 to $2,000+ per month, placing it among the higher-cost areas in New Hampshire due to the local economy and proximity to Dartmouth College. Costs can vary based on the type of center (e.g., college-affiliated, private, or home-based). 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. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships. It's highly recommended to inquire directly with individual providers like the Dartmouth College Child Care Center or Upper Valley providers, and to contact the NH DHHS or the local service hub, the **Upper Valley Strong** network, for guidance on available subsidies and support.
How long are waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Hanover, and what strategies can parents use to secure a spot?
Waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Hanover, especially for infants, are notoriously long, often ranging from 6 to 18 months, and can be even longer for centers affiliated with Dartmouth College. This is due to high demand and limited slots. To improve your chances, parents should: 1) Get on multiple waitlists as soon as possible, even during pregnancy. 2) Consider expanding your search to neighboring towns like Lebanon, Norwich (VT), or Lyme. 3) Explore licensed family childcare homes, which may have shorter wait times. 4) Check in regularly with centers to express continued interest. 5) Utilize resources like the **Upper Valley Child Care Resource and Referral** service, which can help identify availability across the region.
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in New Hampshire, and how can I verify a provider's license and compliance history in Hanover?
In New Hampshire, childcare providers must be licensed by the state's Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Child Care Licensing Unit. Requirements include background checks, health and safety training (including CPR/First Aid), facility inspections, and adherence to staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants). To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the **NH Child Care Licensing Public Search** tool online. This database shows the license status, capacity, and any serious licensing violations or corrective action plans. For Hanover-specific providers, you can also contact the DHHS Concord office directly or ask the provider for their license number to cross-reference. Always choose a licensed provider to ensure regulated standards of care.
Are there part-time, drop-in, or emergency childcare options available for parents in the Hanover area, particularly for those with irregular schedules?
Part-time and flexible childcare options in Hanover are limited but exist. Some centers may offer part-time slots, but these are often in high demand. For drop-in or emergency care, your best bets are: 1) **College-affiliated programs**: Dartmouth may offer occasional or backup care for faculty/staff/students. 2) **In-home providers**: Some licensed family childcare homes offer more flexible arrangements. 3) **Regional services**: Look to nearby Lebanon or White River Junction, VT, where centers like the **Upper Valley Haven** or certain gyms (e.g., the **Upper Valley Aquatic Center**) may have parent's day out programs or hourly care. 4) **Nanny shares or babysitting networks**: Leveraging local parent groups on Facebook or through Dartmouth connections can be a practical solution for irregular needs.
What resources are available in Hanover to help me find and evaluate quality childcare, especially for children with special needs or dietary restrictions?
Hanover and the Upper Valley have several key resources for finding and evaluating childcare. Start with **Upper Valley Child Care Resource and Referral**, a free service that provides personalized referrals and information on quality indicators. For evaluating quality, look for providers accredited by national organizations like NAEYC or participating in NH's **Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS)**. For children with special needs, inquire about providers' experience and ask if they have staff trained in inclusive practices. The **Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC)** in nearby Lebanon can also be a resource for referrals to supportive childcare. For dietary restrictions, many Hanover-area centers are accustomed to accommodating needs due to diverse community demographics, but always discuss specifics during tours. Connecting with local parent groups, such as "Upper Valley Moms and Dads" on Facebook, can provide firsthand reviews and recommendations.