The Best Daycare Centers in Cameron, NC
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Cameron. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Cameron
Bright Horizons at FirstHealth
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
As part of the nationally recognized Bright Horizons network, this center offers a comprehensive educational approach with developmentally appropriate curriculum. Features include highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials, secure facility access, and age-specific learning environments. The center emphasizes STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. Parent communication is enhanced through daily reports and regular conferences. The facility includes modern classrooms, outdoor play areas, and nutritional meal programs.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Southern Pines
Goddard Systems, Inc.
This accredited Goddard School location provides a play-based learning curriculum that balances academic preparation with social development. The F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts. Features include secure keypad entry, low student-teacher ratios, and degreed early childhood educators. The facility includes multiple playgrounds, enrichment programs in yoga and foreign language, and comprehensive safety protocols. Regular parent-teacher communication and developmental assessments ensure ongoing progress tracking.
Daycare Services:
KinderCare Learning Center at Sanford
KinderCare Education
As part of the national KinderCare network, this center offers research-based curriculum across all age groups. The program includes phonics-based reading readiness, hands-on math and science activities, and character development. Safety features include secured entrances, comprehensive background checks for staff, and emergency preparedness training. Qualified teachers hold early childhood credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. The center provides nutritious meals and snacks, indoor and outdoor play spaces, and flexible scheduling options to meet family needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Cameron, NC
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Cameron, NC?
In Cameron and the surrounding Moore County area, full-time daycare costs can vary based on the type of facility. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay between $700 and $950 per month for an infant or toddler. In-home family childcare homes often range from $600 to $800 per month. These rates are generally lower than those in larger metropolitan areas of North Carolina, like Raleigh or Charlotte, but it's important to note that availability can be limited in a smaller town like Cameron. Always inquire about what is included in the tuition, such as meals, snacks, diapers, and curriculum materials.
How can I verify if a daycare in Cameron is properly licensed and check its compliance history?
All childcare providers in Cameron must be licensed by the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE). You can verify a provider's license and review their compliance history, including any past violations, by using the online "Child Care Search" tool on the NC DHHS website. Simply enter the provider's name or location. It's highly recommended to review the facility's most recent inspection reports, which detail findings on health, safety, and educational standards. You can also contact the local DCDEE licensing consultant for Region 6, which includes Moore County, for additional information.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with childcare costs for families in Cameron?
Yes, eligible families in Cameron can apply for the North Carolina Child Care Subsidy Program (also known as the "voucher" program). This state-administered program helps low- and moderate-income families pay for childcare so parents can work or attend school/ training. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and the reason for care. Applications are processed through the Moore County Department of Social Services. Due to high demand, there is often a waitlist, so it is advisable to apply as early as possible. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships, so it's worth asking directly.
What is the average waitlist time for enrolling an infant in a daycare center in Cameron, and how should I plan ahead?
Given that Cameron is a smaller community with fewer childcare centers compared to larger cities, waitlists for infant care (children under 12 months) can be significant. It is common to encounter waitlists of 6 to 12 months, especially for the most sought-after centers. To plan ahead, parents are strongly advised to begin researching and contacting facilities as early as possible during pregnancy. Get on multiple waitlists, even if you are unsure of your final choice. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee, which is typical in North Carolina. Consider expanding your search to nearby towns like Vass, Sanford, or Southern Pines for more options.
What types of childcare settings are most commonly available in Cameron, NC?
Cameron offers a mix of childcare settings, though options are more limited than in urban areas. The most common types are: 1. **Licensed Family Childcare Homes:** These are small, home-based programs often offering a more flexible, family-like environment. They are popular in residential areas of Cameron. 2. **Childcare Centers:** There are a few licensed centers in and near Cameron that provide structured programs for larger groups of children, typically with set hours and curricula. 3. **Faith-Based Preschools:** Several churches in the area operate part-day preschool programs for ages 2-5, which can be a cost-effective option but may not cover full working hours. Due to the rural nature of the town, there are fewer large corporate chains. Many parents also utilize legally operating, license-exempt programs (like certain summer camps or part-time care), but it is crucial to ensure any exempt provider still meets basic safety standards.