The Best Daycare Centers in Murfreesboro, NC
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Murfreesboro. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Murfreesboro
Murfreesboro Child Development Center
Local Family-Owned Management
Murfreesboro Child Development Center is a highly-regarded local facility known for its nurturing environment and play-based educational approach. The center emphasizes social-emotional development through structured activities and free play, with a curriculum that includes literacy, math, and science exploration tailored to each age group. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified, with many holding associate or bachelor's degrees in early childhood education. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Parents praise the low teacher-to-child ratios, daily communication updates, and focus on individualized learning plans. The center also offers nutritious meals and snacks, and partners with local schools for smooth transitions to kindergarten.
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Childcare Network #108
Childcare Network
Childcare Network in Ahoskie is part of a reputable regional chain serving the Murfreesboro area with a research-based curriculum focused on school readiness. The center uses the Early Innovators model, incorporating STEM activities, literacy programs, and character development. Classrooms are designed to encourage exploration, with dedicated spaces for art, music, and sensory play. All teachers undergo background checks and continuous training in child development and safety protocols. The facility includes secured perimeters, video monitoring, and structured outdoor play areas. Parents highlight the strong communication through daily reports and parent-teacher conferences, as well as the center's commitment to inclusive and diverse learning environments. Flexible scheduling and enrichment programs like Spanish exposure and motor skills development are additional benefits.
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Hertford County Early Childhood Development Center
Hertford County Public Schools Partnership
Located in nearby Winton, this center is renowned for its high-quality early childhood programs and strong ties to the local school system. It employs a balanced curriculum blending play-based learning with academic foundations, aligned with North Carolina Early Learning Standards. The center focuses on developmental milestones through hands-on activities, literacy circles, and collaborative projects. Staff include licensed teachers with specialized training in early intervention and special education. Safety is prioritized with keypad entry, regular drills, and health screenings. The facility offers spacious indoor and outdoor play areas, a library corner, and technology-integrated learning stations. Parents appreciate the affordable pricing, family engagement events, and seamless transition support for children moving into public school kindergarten.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Murfreesboro, NC
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Murfreesboro, NC, and are there any local assistance programs?
In Murfreesboro, NC, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $650 to $850 per month, while preschool for a 4-year-old may cost between $550 and $700 per month. These rates are generally lower than the state average due to the area's rural nature and cost of living. 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, the Hertford County Early Childhood Education initiative may offer local resources or sliding scale fees at certain centers. It's highly recommended to contact the DCDEE directly or visit the Family Central website to check eligibility and application procedures.
How can I verify the license and inspection history of a childcare center in Murfreesboro?
All licensed childcare facilities in Murfreesboro, NC, are regulated by the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE). You can verify a center's license and view its compliance history, including any violations or commendations, by using the online "Child Care Search" tool on the NC DCDEE website. Simply enter the facility's name, city (Murfreesboro), or zip code. This public database provides details on the license type (family home or center-based), star rating (if part of the voluntary rated license system), capacity, and results of recent monitoring visits. For a more personal touch, you can also call the DCDEE Eastern Regional Office for additional context.
Are there many options for infant childcare in Murfreesboro, and what should I know about waitlists?
Infant childcare slots (for children under 12 months) are in high demand but limited supply in Murfreesboro, given the smaller number of licensed facilities. You will find options primarily in licensed childcare centers and a few licensed family childcare homes. Due to low caregiver-to-infant ratios required by state law, waitlists are common and can be several months long. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible during pregnancy. When contacting centers like those affiliated with local churches or community programs, ask specific questions about their waitlist process, any fees to join the list, and how often they update parents on their position.
What are the primary types of childcare available in Murfreesboro, and how do they differ?
Parents in Murfreesboro typically have three main licensed options: Child Care Centers, Family Child Care Homes, and Preschools. Centers are facility-based, often with structured curricula and multiple staff; examples in the area may include church-affiliated programs or private centers. Family Child Care Homes are operated in a provider's residence, offering a smaller, home-like setting with mixed-age groups, which can be beneficial for siblings. Preschools often focus on ages 3-5 and may operate on a partial-day schedule, with some being part of the NC Pre-K program for eligible 4-year-olds. Additionally, there are informal options like relative care, but for regulated care with health, safety, and educational standards, seeking a DCDEE-licensed provider is crucial.
Does Murfreesboro offer any public or school-based pre-kindergarten programs for 4-year-olds?
Yes, Murfreesboro and the surrounding Hertford County area participate in the North Carolina Pre-Kindergarten (NC Pre-K) program. This is a free, high-quality academic program designed to prepare eligible 4-year-olds for kindergarten. Eligibility is based on family income, educational need, and other risk factors. The program is typically hosted in licensed childcare centers, public schools, or Head Start settings. In Murfreesboro, slots may be available through the Hertford County Public Schools system or partnered community centers. Applications are managed locally, and there is often a waiting list. Parents should contact the Hertford County Schools administrative office or the local Smart Start partnership, the Hertford County Early Childhood Coalition, for application windows and site locations.