The Best Daycare Centers in Four Oaks, NC
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Four Oaks. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Four Oaks
Four Oaks Child Development Center
Independent
Four Oaks Child Development Center is a locally-owned facility that provides comprehensive early childhood education with a focus on developmental milestones. The center uses a play-based learning approach combined with structured activities to promote social, emotional, and cognitive growth. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified, with many holding early childhood education degrees. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Parents praise the center's nurturing environment, consistent communication, and individualized attention to each child's needs.
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Benson Area Child Development Center
Independent
Benson Area Child Development Center serves families in Four Oaks and surrounding communities with a research-based curriculum that emphasizes literacy, STEM, and creative arts. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and employs educators with backgrounds in early childhood development. Safety protocols include secured facilities, regular drills, and health screenings. The program includes nutritious meal plans and outdoor learning spaces. High parent satisfaction stems from the center's engaging activities, transparent communication, and strong community involvement.
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KinderCare Learning Center at Smithfield
KinderCare Education
KinderCare in Smithfield offers a nationally-recognized curriculum focused on whole-child development, including social-emotional learning, literacy, and math readiness. The center features highly qualified teachers with ongoing professional development and low student-to-teacher ratios. Safety is prioritized with keypad entry, comprehensive background checks, and updated facilities. Parents value the consistent progress updates, inclusive environment, and flexible scheduling options. The center serves Four Oaks families with reliable transportation options and a reputation for excellence in early education.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Four Oaks, NC
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Four Oaks, NC?
In Four Oaks and the surrounding Johnston 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 $750 and $950 per month for an infant or toddler. In-home family childcare homes are often slightly more affordable, typically ranging from $600 to $800 per month. These rates are generally lower than those in larger metropolitan areas like Raleigh, but it's important to note that costs have been rising. Many facilities in Four Oaks offer sibling discounts. Additionally, North Carolina offers subsidy assistance through the 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 Four Oaks?
All childcare facilities in Four Oaks must be licensed by the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE). The most reliable way to verify a license and view compliance history is to use the online "Child Care Search" tool on the NC DHHS website. You can search by the facility's name, city (Four Oaks), or zip code. This public report will show the license status, star rating (from 1 to 5 stars), capacity, and detailed records of any monitoring visits, including non-compliance issues and corrective actions. You can also contact the Johnston County Department of Social Services for local assistance. Always visit a facility in person and ask to see their current license certificate.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Four Oaks, and how far in advance should I apply?
Yes, waitlists are common, especially for infant rooms and highly-rated centers in Four Oaks. Due to limited slots and high demand for quality care, parents are advised to begin their search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally 6 to 12 months before their needed start date. Some popular centers may even have waitlists that extend beyond a year. It's a good strategy to get on multiple waitlists and check in periodically for updates. Family childcare homes may have shorter or more flexible wait times. Starting your search during pregnancy is a standard recommendation for families in the Four Oaks area.
What are the options for part-time or drop-in childcare in Four Oaks?
Full-time, structured programs are the most common, but part-time and drop-in options do exist in Four Oaks, though they are more limited. Some family childcare homes may offer part-time schedules (e.g., 2-3 days a week). For occasional drop-in care, your best local resources are often in-home providers or networks of licensed caregivers who offer flexible care. There are currently no large national drop-in chain facilities in Four Oaks itself. Parents might need to look toward nearby towns like Smithfield or Benson for more structured part-time preschool programs. Additionally, local churches sometimes offer Mother's Morning Out programs, which can provide short-term, part-time relief.
What is North Carolina's Star Rated License system, and what should I look for in a Four Oaks daycare?
North Carolina's Star Rated License is a quality rating system where facilities earn 1 to 5 stars, with 5 being the highest. The rating is based on two key components: Program Standards (educational activities, staff-child interactions) and Staff Education. In Four Oaks, looking for a center or home with a 3-star rating or higher is a good benchmark for quality. A higher star rating often correlates with better staff-to-child ratios and more educated teachers. However, the star rating is just one factor. For Four Oaks specifically, also consider the facility's proximity to your home or work (given the rural/suburban landscape), their policies on school closures for Johnston County weather events, and whether they offer transportation to/from local elementary schools like Four Oaks Elementary.