The Best Daycare Centers in Waterville Valley, NH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Waterville Valley. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Waterville Valley
The Little School
Independent
The Little School offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with a play-based learning approach that emphasizes social-emotional development and kindergarten readiness. Their certified teachers implement a structured curriculum that includes literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and maintains low teacher-to-child ratios. What makes this center stand out is their strong focus on nature-based learning, with regular outdoor exploration and environmental education integrated into daily activities. They maintain excellent safety protocols and have built a reputation for nurturing, individualized care.
Daycare Services:
Plymouth Regional Preschool & Childcare Center
Independent
Plymouth Regional Preschool & Childcare Center provides a high-quality educational program grounded in developmentally appropriate practices. Their curriculum focuses on hands-on learning experiences that promote cognitive, physical, and social development. The center features certified early childhood educators with low staff turnover and maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Their facility includes modern classrooms, dedicated infant and toddler spaces, and secure outdoor playgrounds. The center stands out for its strong parent communication system, regular developmental assessments, and commitment to creating a warm, inclusive community environment for families throughout the Waterville Valley region.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Academy of Plymouth
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Plymouth brings the nationally recognized Life Essentials® curriculum to the Waterville Valley service area, focusing on character development, literacy, and STEM education. Their state-licensed facility features purpose-built classrooms, secure entry systems, and age-appropriate learning materials. The academy employs degreed early childhood educators who receive ongoing professional development. What distinguishes this center is their technology-integrated learning approach, comprehensive security systems, and structured daily routines that balance academic preparation with play-based exploration. They offer nutritious meal programs and maintain excellent safety records with regular facility inspections and staff training.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Waterville Valley, NH
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Waterville Valley, NH?
In Waterville Valley, due to its small, resort-town population, licensed childcare options are primarily limited to licensed family childcare homes. These are small, home-based programs typically caring for a limited number of children, often providing a more flexible and intimate setting. There are currently no large, center-based daycare facilities within the town limits. Many families also utilize licensed providers in surrounding towns like Campton, Thornton, or Plymouth, which may offer center-based options. All providers must be licensed by the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, Child Care Licensing Unit, which ensures they meet state standards for safety, staff-to-child ratios, and programming.
How far in advance should I put my child on a waitlist for childcare in Waterville Valley, and what is the typical cost?
Given the limited number of providers in Waterville Valley itself, it is highly recommended to begin your search and join waitlists **at least 6-12 months before you need care**, especially if you need care for an infant or toddler. For seasonal workers or families arriving for the winter ski season, contacting providers by early summer is advisable. Costs vary but for a licensed family childcare home in the area, you can expect to pay approximately $225-$350 per week for full-time care for a preschool-aged child. Infant care is typically more expensive and less available. Costs in nearby larger towns may be slightly higher. Always inquire about what is included (meals, snacks, supplies) in the weekly rate.
Are there any childcare resources or programs specifically for families employed by the Waterville Valley Resort?
Yes, the Waterville Valley Resort and the surrounding business community are aware of the childcare challenge for employees. While they do not operate a dedicated daycare center, they often maintain relationships with local licensed family childcare providers and can sometimes provide referrals. It's crucial to communicate with the Resort's Human Resources department upon hiring, as they may have the most current information on providers with openings or shortened waitlists for employees. Additionally, some providers in the area may offer priority or adjusted hours for families with parents working shifts at the Resort.
What should I look for when visiting a family childcare home in Waterville Valley, and what questions are specific to this area?
Beyond standard questions about curriculum, safety, and licensing, ask specific questions relevant to the Waterville Valley lifestyle. Inquire about their schedule during major holiday weeks and peak ski seasons—are they open? Ask about their policy and experience with children whose parents have variable or seasonal work schedules. Given the rural and mountainous setting, ask about their outdoor play philosophy and safety protocols for winter weather. Also, discuss their emergency preparedness plan, including procedures for severe winter storms that could affect pick-up times or require sheltering in place. Finally, confirm their transportation radius if you live outside the immediate village area.
What state subsidies or financial assistance programs are available to help with childcare costs in New Hampshire, and how do I access them?
New Hampshire offers the Child Care Scholarship (CCS) program through the Department of Health and Human Services for income-eligible families. This program provides financial assistance to help pay for licensed childcare, including family homes in Waterville Valley. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and reason for care (work, school, etc.). You can apply online through the NH EASY portal or contact your local Family Services Specialist. Additionally, some providers may participate in the federally funded Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), which helps ensure nutritious meals are served. It's important to note that due to high demand, there may be a waitlist for the CCS program, so apply as early as possible.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Waterville Valley: