The Best Daycare Centers in Washington, NH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Washington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Washington
The Little School
Independent
The Little School operates as part of Washington's community school system, offering a play-based educational approach that emphasizes social-emotional development and kindergarten readiness. With small class sizes and experienced early childhood educators, the program focuses on hands-on learning through nature exploration, art, and literacy activities. The facility utilizes both indoor classroom spaces and extensive outdoor learning environments, taking advantage of Washington's rural setting. Teachers hold early childhood certifications and maintain low student-teacher ratios. The program is particularly noted for its strong community integration and personalized attention to each child's developmental needs.
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Kiddie Academy of Concord
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
As part of the nationally recognized Kiddie Academy chain, this Concord location serves families throughout the region including Washington area. The center implements the Life Essentials® curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. Features include secure entry systems, certified teachers with early childhood education backgrounds, and technology-integrated learning spaces. The program emphasizes literacy development, STEM activities, and social skills through structured play. Parents particularly praise the comprehensive communication system, nutritious meal program, and the center's commitment to safety protocols. The facility serves as a popular choice for commuters to the Concord area.
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The Children's Place at CCRVC
Family-focused Childcare Center
Operating under the Claremont Community Resources and Veterans Center, this established childcare facility serves the broader Sullivan County region including Washington families. The center offers a comprehensive early childhood program that incorporates both traditional educational approaches and specialized support services. Staff include certified early childhood educators and specialists trained in developmental screening and intervention. The program emphasizes inclusive education, cultural diversity, and family engagement through regular parent workshops and community events. Facilities feature age-appropriate learning centers, secure outdoor play areas, and dedicated spaces for creative arts and motor skill development. The center is particularly noted for its sliding scale tuition options and commitment to serving diverse family needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Washington, NH
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Washington, NH, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Washington, NH, 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, you can use the "Child Care Search" tool on the NH DHHS website or contact the Child Care Licensing Unit directly. It's highly recommended to confirm licensing, as it is a fundamental indicator of a regulated and monitored program. Unlicensed care may not offer the same protections.
What is the typical cost range for full-time daycare in Washington, NH, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
Childcare costs in Washington and the surrounding Sullivan County area can vary significantly. For an infant in a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay approximately $250 to $350 per week. For a family childcare home, costs may range from $180 to $250 per week. Rates for toddlers and preschoolers are generally slightly lower. These are estimates, and it's crucial to get specific quotes from providers. For financial assistance, New Hampshire's Child Care Scholarship Program (CCSP) helps eligible families based on income and need. You can apply through the NH DHHS. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so be sure to inquire directly.
How long are waitlists for daycare centers and in-home providers in Washington, NH, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to limited provider options in a rural town like Washington, waitlists can be substantial, especially for infant care. It is not uncommon for popular centers or well-regarded family providers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. We strongly recommend beginning your search during pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before you need care. When contacting providers, ask specifically about their current waitlist length, any fees to join the list, and how often they update families on their status. Being proactive and getting on multiple lists is a common strategy for parents in this area.
Are there any unique childcare options or programs in Washington, NH, that cater to part-time, drop-in, or non-traditional work schedules?
Given Washington's small, rural nature, traditional full-time, Monday-Friday programs are most common. Options for part-time, drop-in, or weekend care are extremely limited and not guaranteed. Some licensed family childcare homes may offer more flexible arrangements on a case-by-case basis, but this is rare. For parents with shift work or irregular schedules, your best bet is to network with other local parents to explore potential nanny shares or in-home caregiver arrangements. You might also consider expanding your search to nearby towns like Newport or Claremont, which may have larger centers with more varied scheduling options, though this adds commute time.
What resources are available in Washington, NH, to help me find and evaluate quality childcare providers?
The primary resource is the State of New Hampshire's "Child Care Search" online database, which lists all licensed providers. You can filter by location (using Washington's ZIP code, 03280), age of child, and type of care. For personalized referrals and support, contact the **Early Learning NH** resource and referral service. While not hyper-local, they serve the entire state and can provide guidance. Locally, connecting with other parents through community boards at the Washington Town Hall, the Pillsbury Free Library, or on community Facebook groups can yield valuable word-of-mouth recommendations, which are crucial in a small town for learning about a provider's reputation and day-to-day operations.