The Best Daycare Centers in Salisbury, NH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Salisbury. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Salisbury
Little Sprouts Early Education Center
Little Sprouts LLC
Little Sprouts offers a comprehensive early education curriculum focused on social-emotional development and school readiness. Their research-based approach includes STEAM activities, literacy development, and character education. The center features secure facilities with controlled access, certified early childhood educators, and developmentally appropriate classrooms. They emphasize personalized learning plans and maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios. The Amesbury location serves families throughout the Salisbury area with structured programs that balance academic preparation with play-based learning.
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The Children's Garden of Haverhill
Independent
The Children's Garden provides a nurturing environment with a nature-inspired curriculum that encourages exploration and discovery. Their educational approach combines Montessori principles with emergent curriculum, allowing children to learn through hands-on experiences. The center features spacious indoor classrooms and outdoor play areas, certified teachers with early childhood credentials, and comprehensive safety protocols including secure entry systems. They offer organic meal options and maintain strong parent communication through daily updates and regular conferences.
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The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School offers a play-based learning curriculum developed by early childhood education experts. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) focuses on academic, social, creative, and physical development. The facility includes state-of-the-art security systems, age-appropriate learning centers, and outdoor playgrounds. All teachers hold degrees in education or related fields and participate in ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes STEAM education and provides regular progress reports to parents. Their structured yet flexible approach prepares children for elementary school success.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Salisbury, NH
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Salisbury, NH, and how can I verify a provider is licensed?
In New Hampshire, all childcare providers caring for three or more 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 childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, and program activities. To verify a provider's license status in the Salisbury area, you can use the "Child Care Search" tool on the NH DHHS website or contact the Child Care Licensing Unit directly. It's a critical first step to ensure the facility operates legally and meets baseline safety standards.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers and preschools in the Salisbury area, and when should I start looking?
Due to limited options in Salisbury and the surrounding rural towns of Merrimack County, waitlists for licensed childcare centers and highly-regarded family childcare homes can be significant. It is not uncommon for waitlists to be 6 to 12 months long, especially for infant and toddler spots. Parents are strongly advised to begin their search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before their needed start date. Proactively contacting providers in nearby towns like Andover, Franklin, or Boscawen may also be necessary to expand your options.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare for an infant or toddler in Salisbury, NH?
Childcare costs in Salisbury are generally reflective of New Hampshire's overall high costs, though they may be slightly lower than in more urban areas like Concord. For a licensed family childcare home, you can expect to pay approximately $200-$250 per week for full-time infant care. A childcare center typically ranges from $250-$325 per week. For toddlers, weekly rates might be $10-$30 less. It's important to inquire about what is included in the fee (e.g., meals, diapers, curriculum). Financial assistance may be available through the NH Child Care Scholarship Program for eligible families.
Are there any state or local programs in New Hampshire that help with childcare costs for Salisbury residents?
Yes, the primary program is the New Hampshire Child Care Scholarship (CCS), administered by the Department of Health and Human Services. This state-funded program provides financial assistance to eligible working families, those in education/training programs, or families experiencing certain hardships. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care. Salisbury residents apply through the same state system. Additionally, some employers in the region may offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). It's also worth checking with local community organizations or the Merrimack County ServiceLink resource center for any localized support or referrals.
What are my options for drop-in or occasional childcare services in Salisbury, given its rural setting?
Structured drop-in childcare centers are very rare in Salisbury itself due to its small, rural nature. Your best options for occasional care typically involve building a network with licensed family childcare providers who may have occasional openings, or utilizing babysitting services. Many parents in the area connect with local babysitters through community boards, word-of-mouth, or trusted online platforms, ensuring the sitter is experienced and background-checked. For more regular but part-time care, some family childcare homes in the area may offer flexible or part-time schedules, which is worth inquiring about directly. Planning ahead is essential, as last-minute care is difficult to secure.