The Best Daycare Centers in Burlington, NC
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Burlington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Burlington
Bright Horizons at Burlington
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Burlington offers a comprehensive early education curriculum focused on school readiness and whole-child development. The center features NAEYC-accredited programs with experienced early childhood educators who hold degrees in education or related fields. Their World at Their Fingertips curriculum emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social-emotional learning through hands-on activities. The facility includes secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and modern classrooms with natural lighting. Parents appreciate the regular communication through daily reports and the center's commitment to creating a nurturing, inclusive environment that prepares children for kindergarten and beyond.
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Burlington Academy of Learning
Independent
Burlington Academy of Learning provides a play-based educational approach combined with structured learning activities. The center employs qualified teachers with early childhood credentials and maintains low student-teacher ratios to ensure individualized attention. Their curriculum focuses on developing cognitive, social, and physical skills through creative play, music, art, and outdoor activities. The facility features secure classrooms, monitored playgrounds with safety surfaces, and a comprehensive nutrition program. Parents consistently praise the dedicated staff, clean environment, and the visible progress children make in communication and social skills development.
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The Learning Experience - Graham
The Learning Experience
Located just minutes from Burlington in neighboring Graham, The Learning Experience offers a nationally-recognized early education curriculum with proprietary programs in philanthropy, manners, and foreign language exposure. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and comprehensive background checks for all staff. Their L.E.A.P. curriculum focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, and creative expression through interactive learning stations. The facility includes indoor gymnasiums, age-segregated playgrounds, and technology-enhanced classrooms. Parents highlight the center's excellent communication, engaging learning activities, and the noticeable developmental milestones their children achieve.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Burlington, NC
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Burlington, NC?
In Burlington, NC, the average cost for full-time, center-based infant care typically ranges from $800 to $1,100 per month. For toddlers, the cost is slightly lower, averaging between $700 and $950 per month. Home-based family childcare is often a more affordable option, generally costing between $600 and $850 per month for full-time care. These costs can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum (like Montessori or faith-based programs), and staff-to-child ratios. It's important to note that while these are local averages, North Carolina offers subsidy programs through the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) for eligible families to help offset these expenses.
How can I check the license and compliance history of a daycare center or home in Burlington?
All licensed childcare providers in Burlington must be regulated by the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE). You can easily check a provider's license status, star rating (from 1 to 5 stars), and any history of compliance issues or violations by using the online "Child Care Search" tool on the NC DCDEE website. Simply enter the provider's name or zip code (like 27215, 27217 for Burlington) to access detailed reports. You can also contact the local DCDEE licensing consultant for the Alamance County area for additional verification. Always visit a potential center in person and ask to see their current license certificate.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Burlington, and how far in advance should I apply?
Yes, waitlists are common for many highly-rated daycare centers and infant rooms in Burlington, particularly for facilities affiliated with major employers like LabCorp or Elon University, or those with high star ratings. For infant care, it is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as your second trimester of pregnancy, or at least 6-9 months before your needed start date. For toddler and preschool slots, applying 3-6 months in advance is recommended. Be sure to ask specific centers about their waitlist policies, including any fees to hold a spot and how often you need to confirm your continued interest.
What are some local resources in Burlington to help me find and choose quality childcare?
Burlington parents have several excellent local resources. First, the **Alamance Partnership for Children** is a key agency that helps families find licensed care, understand quality indicators, and access financial assistance programs. They can be contacted directly or visited online. Second, the **Family Support Program of Alamance County** offers guidance and referrals. Additionally, many parents use community Facebook groups like "Burlington, NC Moms" or "Alamance County Chatter" for personal recommendations and insights into local daycare experiences. Your pediatrician's office at Cone Health Alamance Regional or a local church may also have trusted referrals.
What are the typical operating hours for daycare centers in Burlington, and are there options for non-standard work shifts?
Most traditional daycare centers in Burlington operate on a schedule similar to a standard workday, typically from around 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday. However, options for parents working evenings, nights, or weekends are very limited. There are a small number of licensed family childcare homes that may offer more flexible or extended hours to accommodate shift workers at local hospitals, manufacturing plants, or service industries. It is crucial to discuss your specific schedule needs upfront. For reliable overnight or weekend care, you will likely need to explore private nanny shares or in-home babysitting services, which can be arranged through local networks or agencies serving the Piedmont Triad region.