The Best Daycare Centers in Somersworth, NH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Somersworth. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Somersworth
The Children's Center of the Cocheco Valley
Independent
The Children's Center of the Cocheco Valley is a highly-regarded local childcare facility known for its comprehensive developmental approach. They employ experienced early childhood educators with specialized training in age-appropriate curriculum development. The center features secure, modern facilities with dedicated infant rooms, toddler learning centers, and preschool classrooms. Their educational philosophy emphasizes play-based learning while incorporating structured academic preparation. Safety is prioritized with secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. The center offers nutritious meal programs and maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios that exceed state requirements.
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Kiddie Academy of Dover
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Dover serves the Somersworth area with their nationally recognized Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, and STEM education. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and comprehensive monitoring. Their highly qualified teaching staff includes certified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development. The academy emphasizes hands-on learning through dedicated learning centers, outdoor playgrounds, and technology-integrated classrooms. Parent communication is enhanced through their proprietary mobile app that provides real-time updates and photos. The center maintains excellent health and safety protocols with on-site health coordinators.
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The Children's Workshop - Rochester
The Children's Workshop
The Children's Workshop in Rochester is a regional leader serving the Somersworth community with their innovative Creative Curriculum® that aligns with state early learning standards. The center employs degreed early childhood professionals who implement developmentally appropriate practices across all age groups. Facilities include dedicated infant suites with separate sleeping areas, multi-sensory rooms for toddlers, and technology-enhanced preschool classrooms. Their comprehensive safety program includes secured perimeters, emergency preparedness training, and strict health protocols. The center is recognized for its strong parent partnership model and regular developmental assessments. They offer flexible scheduling and enrichment programs including music, movement, and foreign language exposure.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Somersworth, NH
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Somersworth, NH, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Somersworth and throughout New Hampshire, childcare providers must be licensed by the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Child Care Licensing Unit. This applies to family childcare homes (caring for 3-12 children) and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications, and facility safety. To verify a provider's license, you can use the official "Child Care Search" tool on the NH DHHS website. This database shows the license status, any licensing history, and the program's capacity. It's a critical first step for any parent in the Somersworth area to ensure they are considering a legally operating and regulated facility.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Somersworth, NH?
The cost of childcare in Somersworth is generally in line with the broader Seacoast region of New Hampshire, which is among the higher-cost areas in the state. For full-time care, parents can expect to pay approximately $250 to $350 per week for an infant in a licensed childcare center. Family childcare homes may be slightly less, often ranging from $200 to $300 per week. Costs for toddlers are typically 5-15% lower. It's important to note that these are averages, and prices can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and staff credentials. Many providers in the area have waitlists, so factoring in both cost and availability is essential for planning.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with childcare costs for families living in Somersworth?
Yes, eligible families in Somersworth can apply for financial assistance through the New Hampshire Child Care Scholarship Program, administered by the Department of Health and Human Services. This state-funded program helps low and moderate-income families pay for childcare at licensed or license-exempt providers. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and reason for care (e.g., employment, education). Additionally, some local organizations and non-profits in the Seacoast area may offer limited assistance or sliding scale fees. The first step is to contact the DHHS Office of Family Assistance or visit their website to complete an application and determine eligibility.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Somersworth, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, waitlists at many licensed daycare centers in Somersworth and the surrounding Seacoast towns can be significant. It is not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer for infant rooms. We strongly recommend that expecting parents or families planning a move to Somersworth begin researching and contacting providers as early as possible—ideally during the first or second trimester of pregnancy. Getting on multiple waitlists is a common strategy. For family childcare homes, waitlists may be shorter but can still be several months. Proactive planning is crucial to secure a spot.
What are some key questions to ask when touring a daycare facility in Somersworth, specific to New Hampshire regulations and local considerations?
Beyond general questions about curriculum and daily routines, parents in Somersworth should ask locally-specific questions. First, confirm their NH DHHS license is current and ask about their staff turnover rate—high turnover can disrupt care. Ask about their policies for New Hampshire's variable weather, including snow day closures and outdoor play in winter. Inquire about their emergency preparedness plan, especially for events like power outages common in the region. Discuss their approach to communication with parents and how they handle the state's required health and safety protocols, including immunization records and exclusion policies for illness. Finally, ask for references from current local families to get firsthand feedback on their experience.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Somersworth: