The Best Daycare Centers in Belhaven, NC
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Belhaven. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Belhaven
Bright Horizons at Washington
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Washington is a nationally accredited childcare center located approximately 20 miles from Belhaven. The center offers a comprehensive educational approach with developmentally appropriate curriculum for each age group. Their World at Their Fingertips curriculum emphasizes language development, early literacy, mathematics, and social-emotional learning. The facility features secure access systems, dedicated age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The center provides nutritious meals and maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios, with strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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The Learning Experience - Washington
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Washington serves families throughout Beaufort County, including Belhaven residents. Their proprietary L.E.A.P. (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum focuses on early literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills through hands-on activities. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including coded entry, CCTV monitoring, and strict pick-up procedures. Specialized programs include phonics, foreign language introduction, and manners/character development. The facility includes indoor gymnasiums, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers. All lead teachers hold early childhood credentials, and the center maintains NAEYC-aligned quality standards with regular developmental assessments.
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Washington Montessori School
Washington Montessori School
Washington Montessori School offers authentic Montessori education serving children from infancy through elementary years. Located approximately 18 miles from Belhaven, the school provides individualized learning in prepared environments with certified Montessori teachers. The infant and toddler programs focus on practical life skills, sensory development, and language acquisition, while the primary program expands to mathematics, cultural studies, and advanced practical life activities. The school features beautiful natural playgrounds, gardens, and thoughtfully designed classrooms with Montessori materials. Emphasis is placed on developing independence, concentration, and respect within a mixed-age community. The school maintains small class sizes and strong parent partnerships through observation opportunities and regular communication.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Belhaven, NC
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Belhaven, NC?
In Belhaven and the surrounding Beaufort County area, full-time daycare costs can vary based on the type of facility. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay approximately $600 to $850 per month for an infant or toddler. In-home family childcare homes are often slightly more affordable, typically ranging from $500 to $700 per month. These costs are generally lower than the state average for North Carolina, reflecting the rural nature of the region. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. Additionally, North Carolina offers a Child Care Subsidy program for eligible families, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
How can I verify the license and inspection history of a daycare in Belhaven?
All childcare facilities in Belhaven must be licensed by the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE). The most reliable way to verify a license and review inspection reports is to use the online "Child Care Search" tool on the official NC DHHS website. You can search by the facility's name, city, or zip code (27810 for Belhaven). This public database provides the license status, star rating (from 1 to 5 stars), and details of any compliance history, including violations and the dates of recent inspections. You can also contact the DCDEE Eastern Regional Office for additional information. Always choose a facility that is actively licensed and has a good compliance record.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Belhaven, and how far in advance should I apply?
Due to the limited number of dedicated childcare centers in a small town like Belhaven, waitlists are common, especially for infant care slots. It is highly recommended to begin your search and add your child's name to waitlists at least 6 to 9 months before your needed start date. Some popular centers may have even longer waits. When contacting a facility, ask specifically about their waitlist process: if there's a fee, how often they update it, and their estimated timeline for an opening. Exploring licensed family childcare homes in residential areas can provide more immediate availability and is a crucial alternative to consider in this community.
What types of childcare options are most commonly available in Belhaven, NC?
Belhaven primarily offers two types of licensed childcare options. The first is licensed family childcare homes, which are operated in a provider's residence and typically care for a smaller group of children, offering a home-like environment. The second is childcare centers, which are fewer in number but operate in commercial or institutional settings with multiple staff and classrooms. Given the town's size, family childcare homes are often the most prevalent and accessible option. There are also faith-based preschool programs that may offer part-day options. For school-age children, the Beaufort County Schools district may offer before and after-school programs at local elementary schools, which is an important resource for working parents.
What are the key questions to ask a potential daycare provider in Belhaven during a tour?
When touring a daycare in Belhaven, ask specific questions to assess safety, quality, and fit. Essential questions include: "What is your staff-to-child ratio, and are all caregivers trained in Pediatric CPR/First Aid?" (NC law mandates specific ratios). "What is your daily schedule and educational philosophy?" "How do you handle communication with parents about my child's day?" "What is your policy on sick children, and what are your cleaning protocols?" Given the local context, also ask: "What is your plan for severe weather or flooding, given our coastal location?" and "Do you participate in the NC Pre-K program or have a star-rated license?" Finally, always request references from other local parents.