The Best Daycare Centers in Goldsboro, NC
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Goldsboro. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Goldsboro
Kiddie Academy of Goldsboro
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Goldsboro operates with a comprehensive Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and social-emotional learning. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials and maintains low student-to-teacher ratios. Facilities include secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. The academy emphasizes hands-on learning experiences, nutritious meal programs, and regular parent communication through digital platforms. Their safety protocols include comprehensive background checks, CPR-certified staff, and rigorous cleaning procedures.
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The Learning Station
Independent Center
The Learning Station provides a nurturing environment with a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation. Their curriculum includes language development, mathematics, science exploration, and creative arts. The center features experienced early childhood educators with ongoing professional development. Safety measures include secured facilities, monitored playgrounds, and emergency preparedness training. The program emphasizes individualized attention, developmental milestone tracking, and strong parent partnerships through regular conferences and progress reports.
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Childcare Network #118
Childcare Network
Childcare Network #118 implements the Creative Curriculum® system that promotes cognitive, social, and physical development through hands-on learning centers. The facility features dedicated infant rooms, toddler classrooms, and preschool learning environments with certified teachers. Their program includes daily literacy activities, STEM exploration, and character education. Safety features include keypad entry systems, comprehensive security protocols, and health screening procedures. The center offers flexible scheduling options, nutritious meals meeting USDA guidelines, and regular parent communication through mobile apps and in-person meetings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Goldsboro, NC
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Goldsboro, NC?
In Goldsboro, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For an infant (under 18 months), you can expect to pay between $700 and $950 per month at a licensed childcare center. For toddlers (18 months to 3 years), costs typically range from $650 to $850 per month. Home-based family childcare is often slightly less expensive, ranging from $550 to $750 monthly. These rates are generally lower than the state average for North Carolina, reflecting Goldsboro's cost of living. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. Many facilities in Wayne County also offer subsidized slots through the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) for qualifying families.
How can I verify if a daycare in Goldsboro is properly licensed and check its compliance history?
All childcare facilities in North Carolina must be licensed by the DCDEE. To verify a Goldsboro daycare's license and review its history, you should use the "Child Care Search" tool on the official NC Child Care website. This public database allows you to search by facility name, city (Goldsboro), or zip code. The report will show the license status (Active, Provisional, etc.), the facility's star rating (a key quality indicator on a 1-5 scale), and any history of compliance issues or violations. You can also contact the local DCDEE licensing consultant for the Goldsboro area directly for additional information. It's highly recommended to visit any potential daycare in person to observe the environment and ask the director about their latest licensing review.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Goldsboro, and how far in advance should I apply?
Waitlists are common for infant rooms and highly-rated centers in Goldsboro, particularly for facilities associated with Seymour Johnson Air Force Base or those with high star ratings. For infant care, it is advisable to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during your second trimester of pregnancy. For toddler and preschool slots, applying 3 to 6 months in advance is a good rule of thumb. When contacting centers, always ask about their specific waitlist policy: if there's a fee to join, how often you need to confirm your interest, and the estimated timeline. Exploring a mix of centers and licensed family childcare homes can increase your options and potentially reduce wait times.
What resources are available in Goldsboro to help me find and choose quality childcare?
Goldsboro parents have several local resources. Your first stop should be the **Wayne County Partnership for Children (WCPC)**, the local Smart Start agency. They maintain a referral list of licensed providers, offer guidance on the NC Star Rated License system, and can explain financial assistance programs like the NC Child Care Subsidy. You can also contact the **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R)** service for the region. Additionally, seeking recommendations from local parent groups on social media (like Goldsboro/Wayne County community pages) can provide personal insights. Don't overlook visiting the facilities during operating hours to get a true feel for the program's environment and staff interactions.
What are some unique childcare considerations for military families stationed at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base?
Military families in Goldsboro have specific resources and considerations. The **Seymour Johnson Air Force Base Child Development Center (CDC)** is a primary option, offering priority to military families and often having a significant waitlist—apply through MilitaryChildCare.com as soon as you have orders. The base also approves off-base childcare providers for use with fee assistance programs. Through the **Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood (MCCYN)** program, you may receive financial assistance to use a high-quality, state-licensed daycare in the Goldsboro community. It's crucial to understand the required documentation and priority tiers for base care. Connecting with the Airman & Family Readiness Center on base can provide tailored support and local provider recommendations familiar with the unique schedules and deployments of military life.