The Best Daycare Centers in Lee, NH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lee. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lee
Bright Horizons at Pease International Tradeport
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Pease International Tradeport is a highly-regarded childcare center serving the Lee area with their NAEYC-accredited program. They implement the World at Their Fingers curriculum, focusing on STEAM education, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, keypad entry, and comprehensive safety protocols. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials with ongoing professional development. The facility includes age-appropriate learning environments, outdoor playgrounds, and enrichment programs. Parent communication includes daily reports and regular developmental assessments.
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The Children's Center of Durham
Independent Nonprofit
The Children's Center of Durham is a nonprofit childcare center serving Lee and surrounding communities with a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum. They maintain low teacher-to-child ratios and employ degreed early childhood educators. The program emphasizes outdoor education, with nature exploration and garden activities integrated into daily learning. Safety features include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and emergency preparedness training. The center offers nutritious meals and snacks, and maintains strong parent partnerships through regular communication and family events. Their inclusive environment supports diverse learning needs.
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Exeter Early Learning Center
Independent
Exeter Early Learning Center serves families in Lee and the surrounding Seacoast region with a comprehensive early childhood program. Their curriculum blends play-based learning with structured academic preparation, focusing on literacy, mathematics, and social skills development. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, video monitoring, and strict safety protocols. Qualified teachers hold early childhood certifications and participate in continuous professional development. The program includes enrichment activities such as music, movement, and Spanish language exposure. Parent engagement is supported through regular conferences, portfolio assessments, and classroom participation opportunities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lee, NH
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available for families in Lee, NH?
In Lee, NH, parents primarily have access to three types of licensed childcare: licensed family childcare homes, licensed childcare centers, and licensed plus programs. Licensed family childcare homes operate out of a provider's residence and are common in Lee's more residential areas, offering smaller group sizes. Licensed childcare centers are larger facilities, with the closest options often located in nearby towns like Durham or Newmarket. Lee itself also has programs that are "licensed plus," meaning they meet higher quality standards set by the state's Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS). Given Lee's semi-rural nature, family childcare homes are a particularly popular and convenient local option. All licensed providers are regulated by the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, Child Care Licensing Unit.
How much does full-time childcare typically cost in Lee, NH, and are there financial assistance programs?
The cost of childcare in Lee, NH, varies by type and age of the child. For an infant in a licensed family childcare home, you can expect to pay approximately $225-$275 per week. For a preschool-aged child, costs may range from $200-$250 per week. Center-based care in the surrounding Seacoast region tends to be higher. Financial assistance is available through the New Hampshire Child Care Scholarship Program, which is income-based and can significantly reduce costs for eligible families. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts. It's highly recommended to contact the NH DHHS Child Care Scholarship Unit or the local Child Care Resource and Referral agency (CCR&R) for the most current eligibility guidelines and application process.
Are waitlists common for daycare programs in the Lee area, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common for childcare programs in and around Lee, NH, due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants and toddlers. For the most sought-after licensed family homes or centers in neighboring towns, waitlists can be 6 to 12 months long, or even longer. Parents are strongly advised to begin their search during pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before their needed start date. When contacting providers, always ask about their current waitlist policy, estimated timeline, and if they require a deposit to hold a spot. Being flexible with your start date can improve your chances of securing a placement sooner.
What are the state-mandated staff-to-child ratios and group sizes for childcare in New Hampshire, and how do they impact care in Lee?
New Hampshire has strict staff-to-child ratios that all licensed providers in Lee must follow. For infants (6 weeks to 18 months), the ratio is 1 staff member to 4 children, with a maximum group size of 8. For toddlers (18-36 months), it's 1:5 with a max group of 10. For preschoolers (3 years to kindergarten), it's 1:10 with a max group of 20. These ratios are designed to ensure safety and quality of care. In Lee's smaller family childcare settings, these ratios often mean your child will be in a very intimate group, which many parents prefer. When touring a facility, always verify they are in compliance with these state regulations, as it directly impacts the amount of individual attention your child will receive.
Beyond basic licensing, how can I assess the quality and fit of a daycare in Lee for my family?
Assessing quality goes beyond checking a license. First, look for programs participating in New Hampshire's "Licensed Plus" QRIS, which indicates a commitment to higher standards. Schedule in-person tours and observe: Are the children engaged and happy? Is the environment clean, safe, and stimulating? Ask specific questions about their daily curriculum, discipline philosophy, communication with parents, and staff qualifications and turnover. In a close-knit community like Lee, ask for references from current parents and check local community groups or forums for word-of-mouth recommendations. Also, consider practicalities like their hours of operation, proximity to your home or commute, and their policies on sick children, which are crucial for families in a town with fewer alternative options. Trusting your instincts about the caregiver's warmth and professionalism is key.