The Best Daycare Centers in Harrisburg, NC
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Harrisburg. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Harrisburg
Primrose School of Harrisburg
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Harrisburg offers a balanced learning approach through their exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum, combining teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. The school features highly qualified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development, secure keypad entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their curriculum emphasizes literacy, math, science, social studies, and character development through hands-on learning experiences. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, dedicated art and music rooms, and modern classrooms designed for optimal learning. Parents consistently praise the school's communication, nurturing environment, and strong academic preparation for kindergarten.
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The Goddard School of Harrisburg
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Harrisburg provides a play-based learning environment with F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. The school employs degreed teachers who implement developmentally appropriate curriculum across all age groups. Safety features include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. The facility features bright, modern classrooms, multiple playgrounds with age-appropriate equipment, and dedicated spaces for art, music, and movement. The school emphasizes STEAM learning and offers enrichment programs including yoga, foreign language exposure, and technology integration.
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KinderCare at Harrisburg
KinderCare Learning Companies
KinderCare at Harrisburg offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with research-based curriculum that focuses on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center features experienced educators with specialized training in early childhood development and maintains low teacher-to-child ratios. Safety is prioritized with secured entrances, regular health and safety inspections, and emergency preparedness protocols. The facility includes dedicated infant rooms, spacious preschool classrooms, outdoor play areas, and a commercial kitchen providing nutritious meals. The center is known for its inclusive environment, strong parent-teacher partnerships, and commitment to preparing children for elementary school success through their Phonics Adventures® and Hands-On Science® programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Harrisburg, NC
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Harrisburg, NC, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Harrisburg, NC, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $1,100 to $1,400 per month, while toddler care is generally between $950 and $1,200 per month. Preschool programs for 3-5 year olds often cost $800 to $1,000 monthly. These rates are influenced by factors like the center's accreditation, curriculum, and staff-to-child ratios. For financial assistance, parents can apply for the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) Subsidized Child Care Program, which is income-based. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's also worth checking with the Cabarrus County Partnership for Children, which administers state-funded pre-K programs for eligible 4-year-olds.
How can I verify the license and inspection history of a childcare center in Harrisburg?
All licensed childcare facilities in Harrisburg must comply with North Carolina state regulations. To verify a center's license and review its compliance history, parents should use the "Child Care Search" tool on the official North Carolina DCDEE website. This database provides detailed reports on each facility, including its license status, star rating (from 1 to 5 stars based on program standards and staff education), and any recent inspection reports with noted violations. You can search by the center's name, location, or license number. For any specific concerns, you can also contact the DCDEE Regional Office that oversees Cabarrus County.
What is the average waitlist time for infant care at daycare centers in Harrisburg, and how should I plan ahead?
Due to high demand and strict infant-to-teacher ratios (1:5 in NC), waitlists for infant care spots in Harrisburg can be significant. It's common for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer. To secure a spot, it is highly recommended that expecting parents begin touring facilities and getting on waitlists during the second trimester of pregnancy. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee, which typically ranges from $50 to $150. When contacting centers, ask specific questions about their waitlist process, how often it's updated, and if they offer priority for siblings of current enrollees.
Are there many in-home family childcare providers in Harrisburg, and what are the pros and cons compared to center-based care?
Harrisburg has a mix of both licensed family childcare homes and larger centers. Family childcare homes are often smaller, serving up to 8 children in a more intimate, home-like setting. They can offer more flexible hours and potentially lower costs. However, their availability can be more limited, and they may have fewer structured educational programs. Centers typically provide a more structured curriculum, multiple teachers, and often have better resources for school readiness. To find licensed family childcare homes, use the NC DCDEE search tool and filter for "Family Child Care Home." Always verify their license and visit the home to ensure it meets your standards for safety and care.
What are some key questions to ask during a tour of a daycare center in Harrisburg, specific to North Carolina standards?
Beyond general questions, focus on NC-specific standards and local logistics. Key questions include: 1. "What is your facility's star rating from the DCDEE, and what are you doing to maintain or improve it?" 2. "Can you explain your staff's qualifications and ongoing training requirements, as per NC law?" 3. "What is your sick child policy, and how do you handle common childhood illnesses in alignment with NC childcare health guidelines?" 4. "What is your plan for inclement weather, especially given Harrisburg's occasional severe storms? Do you follow Cabarrus County Schools' delay/closure schedule?" 5. "How do you communicate daily activities and any incidents? Do you use a specific app or paper report?" Also, inquire about outdoor playtime, security measures at the facility entrance, and their policy on parent visits during the day.