The Best Daycare Centers in Camp Lejeune, NC
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Camp Lejeune. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Camp Lejeune
Childcare Network #108
Childcare Network
Childcare Network #108 is a highly-regarded center located just minutes from Camp Lejeune, specifically serving military families with comprehensive early education programs. The center implements the proprietary "Experience Early Learning" curriculum that focuses on school readiness through play-based learning and structured activities. They maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios with qualified early childhood educators, many of whom have extensive experience working with military families. The facility features secure access systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. They offer flexible scheduling to accommodate military family needs and provide nutritious meals through their food program. Special emphasis is placed on creating a stable, nurturing environment for children experiencing parental deployments.
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KinderCare at Jacksonville
KinderCare Learning Companies
KinderCare at Jacksonville serves the Camp Lejeune community with a nationally-recognized curriculum that balances academic preparation with social-emotional development. Their approach includes STEM learning, literacy development, and character building activities. The center features secure keypad entry, comprehensive safety protocols, and regularly maintained facilities. Teachers hold early childhood credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The program includes daily communication with parents through digital platforms, accommodating the unique schedules of military families. They offer enrichment programs in music and physical fitness, along with summer camp options for school-aged children.
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Building Blocks Child Development Center
Independent
Building Blocks Child Development Center is a locally-owned facility with an outstanding reputation for serving military families from Camp Lejeune. They implement a creative curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning through centers and project-based activities. The center maintains small class sizes with low teacher-to-child ratios, ensuring personalized attention. Their staff includes experienced early childhood professionals with specialized training in supporting children through deployment cycles and transitions. The facility features secure access, modern learning environments, and expansive outdoor play spaces. They provide home-cooked nutritious meals and emphasize character development alongside academic readiness, making them a top choice for families seeking a nurturing educational environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Camp Lejeune, NC
What are the main types of childcare available to military and civilian families in Camp Lejeune, and how do I access them?
In Camp Lejeune, families primarily have access to three types of childcare: 1) The Child Development Centers (CDCs) operated by Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) on base, which offer full-day, part-day, and hourly care for children 6 weeks to 5 years old. 2) The Family Child Care (FCC) program, which consists of licensed, monitored home-based providers in on-base housing. 3) Off-base civilian daycare centers and home providers in Jacksonville and surrounding areas. To access on-base care, you must register through the MCCS Central Enrollment Office. Priority is given based on a family's military status and work schedule, so it's crucial to get on the waitlist as early as possible, as spots are highly competitive. For off-base options, you can search the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education's online database for licensed providers in Onslow County.
How long are the waitlists for on-base Child Development Centers (CDCs) at Camp Lejeune, and what can I do while waiting?
Waitlists for the CDCs at Camp Lejeune are notoriously long, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for infants and toddlers. The waitlist is managed by the Central Enrollment Office, and your position is influenced by your priority category (e.g., active-duty military, dual-military, DOD civilian). While waiting, you should immediately explore two key alternatives: 1) Enroll in the Family Child Care (FCC) home network on base, which may have shorter wait times. 2) Get on the waitlist for the MCCS School-Age Care program if your child is older. Additionally, you can seek a spot at a licensed off-base facility in Jacksonville. It is highly recommended to place your child on the CDC waitlist as soon as you have orders to Camp Lejeune, even before you arrive. The MCCS office can also provide a list of local community providers.
What are the typical costs for childcare in the Camp Lejeune area, and is there financial assistance available?
Costs vary significantly. On-base MCCS programs use a tiered fee schedule based on your Total Family Income (TFI), making it more affordable for junior enlisted families. Weekly fees for full-time CDC care can range from approximately $100 to $200+ based on your TFI bracket. Off-base, in Jacksonville, full-time center-based care for an infant can average $800-$1,200 per month, while preschool-age care may be $600-$900 per month. Financial assistance is available. Military families may be eligible for the Department of Defense's Child Care Fee Assistance program if they use a community (off-base) provider that meets certain criteria. Additionally, North Carolina offers the Child Care Subsidy Program (through the Department of Social Services) for income-eligible families, which can be used at many licensed off-base providers.
Are there childcare options tailored for the irregular hours common in military life, such as shift work, 24-hour duty, or weekend training?
Yes, Camp Lejeune MCCS offers specific programs for non-standard hours. The CDC provides "Hourly Care" on a space-available basis, which can be reserved for appointments or short periods. More critically, the Family Child Care (FCC) program is often the best resource for irregular hours. Many FCC providers offer evening, weekend, and overnight care to accommodate shift workers, CQ duty, or field exercises. You must discuss your specific schedule needs directly with potential FCC providers during the interview process. Some off-base providers in Jacksonville may also offer flexible or drop-in care, but this is less common. It's essential to communicate your military-related scheduling needs upfront when searching for care.
What should I look for when evaluating an off-base daycare in Jacksonville, and how does North Carolina state licensing work?
When evaluating off-base centers or homes in Jacksonville, first verify their license is current and in good standing with the NC Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE). You can check for violations or compliance issues online. Look for providers with experience serving military families who understand the unique stresses of deployment and PCS moves. Ask about their curriculum, staff-to-child ratios (NC law requires 1:5 for infants, 1:10 for 3-year-olds), staff qualifications and turnover, security procedures, and sick policies. Visit during operating hours to observe interactions. North Carolina uses a star-rated license system (1 to 5 stars) based on education standards and program quality, with 5 stars being the highest. A higher star rating generally indicates a higher quality program, though it may also correlate with higher cost.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Camp Lejeune: