The Best Daycare Centers in Kingston, NH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Kingston. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Kingston
The Children's Montessori School
The Children's Montessori School
This AMI-recognized Montessori school offers authentic Montessori education with highly trained teachers holding AMI diplomas. The program emphasizes individualized learning, hands-on materials, and fostering independence. Features include beautiful natural playgrounds, mixed-age classrooms, and a strong focus on practical life skills. The school maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and serves children from infancy through kindergarten with a curriculum that develops concentration, coordination, and social skills in a carefully prepared environment.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
This nationally accredited Goddard School location offers a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social development. Features state-of-the-art security systems, highly qualified teachers with early childhood education degrees, and age-appropriate STEAM curriculum. The facility includes multiple playgrounds, dedicated art and music rooms, and provides nutritious meals. Parents praise the consistent communication through daily reports and the school's focus on developing confidence and independence.
Daycare Services:
Countryside Children's Center
Countryside Children's Center
A family-owned childcare center offering a play-based curriculum that incorporates elements of Reggio Emilia and emergent curriculum approaches. Features certified teachers with extensive early childhood experience, low student-teacher ratios, and a nature-based outdoor learning environment. The program emphasizes social-emotional development, creative expression, and hands-on learning experiences. The center maintains excellent state licensing compliance records and offers flexible scheduling options including full-time, part-time, and drop-in care for working families in the Kingston/Exeter area.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Kingston, NH
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Kingston, NH, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Kingston, 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 center-based programs. Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, and program activities. To verify a facility's license status, you can use the official "Child Care Search" tool on the NH DHHS website. It's highly recommended to visit a potential daycare in person and ask to see their current license, which should be posted. You can also check for any compliance history or complaints through the same state portal.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare in Kingston, NH, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
The cost of daycare in Kingston varies by the child's age and the type of care. For an infant in a licensed childcare center, parents can expect to pay approximately $1,200 to $1,600 per month. For toddlers and preschoolers, costs typically range from $1,000 to $1,400 per month. Family childcare homes often offer slightly lower rates. For financial assistance, New Hampshire's Child Care Scholarship Program (CCSP) is the primary resource for eligible families, based on income and need. Additionally, you can contact the Southern District Office of the NH DHHS or local organizations like the Rockingham Community Action for guidance on subsidies and other support services available to Kingston residents.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Kingston, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants and toddlers, waitlists at many licensed daycare centers and quality family homes in Kingston can be 6 to 12 months long, and sometimes longer. It's crucial to start your search early, ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. To improve your chances, get on multiple waitlists, follow up with providers every 2-3 months to confirm your interest, and be flexible with your start date if possible. Consider expanding your search to neighboring towns like Plaistow, Newton, or East Kingston for more options. Some facilities may require a non-refundable waitlist fee.
What are the options for part-time or flexible childcare schedules in Kingston?
While many centers in Kingston prioritize full-time enrollment, part-time and flexible options do exist. Some licensed family childcare homes may offer more customizable schedules, such as 2-3 days per week or half-days. Additionally, you can explore preschool programs for children ages 3-5, which often operate on partial-day schedules. For occasional or backup care, services like Care.com or local nanny shares coordinated through community Facebook groups (e.g., "Kingston, NH Community Forum") can be useful. It's important to communicate your scheduling needs clearly and early in your search, as these spots are often limited.
Are there any unique outdoor or nature-based childcare programs available in the Kingston area?
Yes, the Kingston area's semi-rural setting offers access to nature-based learning opportunities. While Kingston itself may not have a dedicated forest school, several nearby programs incorporate outdoor education. For example, some family childcare providers and centers in the region utilize large outdoor play areas, gardens, and local trails. You might also find preschools in neighboring towns that follow a "nature preschool" model. To locate these, search for providers with terms like "outdoor play," "nature-focused," or "garden-based" in their philosophy, and inquire directly about their daily outdoor time and curriculum during tours. The natural environment of the Exeter River and local conservation lands can be a significant asset for local programs.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Kingston: