The Best Daycare Centers in Moultonborough, NH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Moultonborough. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Moultonborough
Moultonborough Children's Center
Non-profit Community Center
Moultonborough Children's Center is a highly-regarded non-profit facility offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. The center features a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates nature exploration, creative arts, and literacy development. Their qualified teaching staff maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and holds early childhood education certifications. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and follows strict safety protocols including secure entry systems. Parents consistently praise the center's nurturing environment, experienced staff, and strong community connections. The center serves children from 6 weeks through school age with flexible scheduling options.
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Kids' World Child Care & Learning Center
Independent Child Care Center
Located in nearby Laconia, Kids' World serves families throughout the Lakes Region including Moultonborough. The center offers a structured educational program focusing on social-emotional development and school readiness skills. Their curriculum includes STEM activities, language development, and creative expression through arts and music. The facility features modern classrooms, indoor gross motor spaces, and secure outdoor playgrounds. Staff members hold degrees in early childhood education and participate in ongoing professional development. The center maintains excellent safety records with comprehensive security systems and health protocols. Parents highlight the center's communication, individualized attention, and preparation for kindergarten transition.
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The Children's Learning Center at Plymouth State University
University-Affiliated Early Learning Center
This university-affiliated center in Plymouth serves the broader region including Moultonborough families. As a laboratory school, it combines research-based practices with high-quality early childhood education. The program emphasizes inquiry-based learning, project work, and developmental appropriateness. The center benefits from university resources including education faculty oversight and student teachers providing additional support. Classrooms are designed as learning environments with natural materials, literacy-rich spaces, and documentation of children's work. Staff includes master teachers with advanced degrees and extensive experience. The center maintains exceptional teacher-to-child ratios and follows NAEYC-inspired guidelines. Families appreciate the educational quality, teacher expertise, and innovative curriculum approaches.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Moultonborough, NH
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Moultonborough, NH, and how do I find them?
In Moultonborough, you'll primarily find licensed childcare through family childcare homes (in a provider's residence, typically for smaller groups) and licensed childcare centers. Due to the town's more rural and residential character, family childcare homes are a common and valued option. To find licensed providers, your first stop should be the State of New Hampshire's online Child Care Licensing Unit search tool. You can filter by town (Moultonborough) and program type. Additionally, contacting the **Family Resource Center of Central NH** (serving the Lakes Region) can provide personalized referrals and support. Local community boards, the Moultonborough Central School, and word-of-mouth in neighborhood groups are also excellent resources for discovering smaller, home-based programs.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in Moultonborough, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists in Moultonborough can vary significantly but are often lengthy, especially for infant and toddler care, which has stricter staff-to-child ratios. It's not uncommon for popular centers or highly recommended family providers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months or more. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Contact multiple providers to get on several lists. Be proactive—check in every few months to confirm your spot remains active and express continued interest. Consider expanding your search radius to neighboring towns like Center Harbor or Meredith, though availability there may also be tight. Flexibility with start dates can sometimes help.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Moultonborough, and are there any local or state financial assistance programs?
Costs in Moultonborough and the broader Lakes Region are moderately high, reflecting both demand and operational costs. For a full-time infant, you can expect to pay approximately $1,200 to $1,600 per month at a center, while family childcare may range from $900 to $1,300. Rates generally decrease slightly for older toddlers and preschoolers. For financial assistance, New Hampshire's **Child Care Scholarship (CCS)** program is the primary resource for eligible families, based on income and need. You apply through the NH Department of Health and Human Services. Additionally, some local employers or organizations may offer dependent care flexible spending account (FSA) partnerships. It's also worth inquiring directly with providers if they offer any sibling discounts or sliding scale options.
What are the state licensing requirements for childcare providers in New Hampshire that I should be aware of as a parent?
All licensed providers in Moultonborough must comply with NH Child Care Licensing Standards. Key requirements parents should know include: **Staff-to-Child Ratios** (e.g., 1:4 for infants under 12 months, 1:7 for preschoolers), comprehensive background checks for all staff, annual training in topics like CPR/First Aid and child development, and regular health and safety inspections of the facility. Licensed family homes are limited to no more than 12 children. Providers must also follow specific guidelines for safe sleep (for infants), nutrition, and emergency preparedness. You can ask any provider for their most recent licensing report, which is public information and details any compliance history.
Are there any unique seasonal considerations for childcare in Moultonborough, given its location in the Lakes Region?
Yes, Moultonborough's location on Lake Winnipesaukee and its seasonal tourism economy create unique childcare dynamics. Many year-round providers maintain consistent schedules, but you may find that some summer-only or seasonal programs (like day camps) become available for preschool and school-age children. Conversely, the influx of seasonal workers and vacationing families in summer can sometimes increase demand for drop-in or short-term care, potentially impacting availability for regular clients. It's wise to confirm your provider's year-round schedule and policies for holidays and summer breaks. Also, inquire about their outdoor play and learning opportunities, as many local providers incorporate the natural Lakes Region environment into their curriculum, which is a great benefit. Planning for school-year schedules that align with the **Moultonborough School District** calendar is also important for before/after-school care.
Nearby Cities
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