The Best Daycare Centers in New Bern, NC
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in New Bern. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in New Bern
KinderCare Learning Center - New Bern
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare in New Bern offers a research-based curriculum focused on early literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development through play-based learning. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing training. The facility features secure keypad entry, age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and nutritional meal programs. Standout features include individualized learning assessments, strong parent communication via daily reports, and a focus on preparing children for kindergarten with structured activities and enrichment programs.
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The Goddard School of New Bern
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School utilizes the F.L.E.X. (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum, emphasizing play-based learning in literacy, STEM, art, and social skills. All teachers are qualified with early childhood education credentials and participate in continuous professional development. The school maintains low student-teacher ratios, secure facilities with CCTV monitoring, and indoor/outdoor play areas. It stands out for its focus on creativity, technology integration, and personalized developmental progress tracking shared with parents through a proprietary app.
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Primrose School of New Bern
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose Schools provide a balanced learning approach blending teacher-directed and child-initiated activities, with curricula focused on character development, literacy, STEM, and the arts. Teachers are certified in early childhood education and trained in safety protocols. The facility includes secure access, age-specific classrooms, outdoor learning environments, and healthy meal options. Notable for its strong parent partnerships, community involvement events, and emphasis on fostering independence and critical thinking skills in a nurturing setting.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in New Bern, NC
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in New Bern, NC, and are there any local assistance programs?
In New Bern, the cost of full-time daycare varies significantly based on the child's age and the type of center. For an infant, you can expect to pay between $800 to $1,100 per month. For toddlers and preschoolers, costs typically range from $650 to $900 per month. In-home family childcare is often slightly less expensive. It's important to note that prices can be higher at nationally accredited centers or those with specialized curricula. For financial assistance, Craven County families can apply for the North Carolina Child Care Subsidy Program (often called "voucher" or "subsidy") through the Craven County Department of Social Services. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How do I verify a daycare is properly licensed in New Bern, and what are North Carolina's key regulations I should know about?
All licensed childcare facilities in New Bern are regulated by the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE). You can verify a center's license, view its compliance history, and read any inspection reports online through the DCDEE's "Child Care Search" tool on their official website. Key state regulations include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:5 for infants, 1:10 for 3-year-olds), required background checks for all staff, and annual health and safety inspections. In Craven County, facilities must also adhere to specific emergency preparedness plans for events like hurricanes. Always choose a center that is either licensed or legally license-exempt (like some religious programs); unlicensed care is a significant risk.
Are daycare waitlists common in New Bern, and how far in advance should I start looking for infant care?
Yes, waitlists for high-quality daycare, especially for infants (children under 1 year old), are very common in New Bern. Due to the stricter staff-to-child ratios for infants, spots are limited and highly sought after. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin touring facilities and getting on waitlists during the first or second trimester of pregnancy, ideally 6 to 9 months before your needed start date. For toddler or preschool openings, a 3-6 month lead time is more typical but still advisable. When contacting centers, ask specific questions about their waitlist process: Is there a fee? How often should you check in? Is the list prioritized for siblings or employees?
What are the main types of childcare options available to parents in New Bern, beyond large daycare centers?
New Bern offers a diverse range of childcare options to fit different family needs and budgets. Beyond corporate or church-affiliated daycare centers, parents can consider: 1. **Family Child Care Homes:** Licensed care provided in a caregiver's private home, often offering a smaller, family-like setting. These are popular in New Bern's residential neighborhoods. 2. **Preschools:** Many local churches and private organizations offer part-day or full-day preschool programs for children ages 2-5, with a stronger focus on early education. 3. **Nanny Shares:** Some families in neighborhoods like Trent Woods or Fairfield Harbour arrange to share a nanny, splitting the cost. 4. **Drop-in Care:** Limited options exist, but some fitness centers or the local community college may offer occasional care. Exploring these alternatives can provide more flexibility, especially if center waitlists are long.
How does the local environment in New Bern, like hurricane season or military presence, impact childcare planning?
New Bern's coastal location and significant military population at nearby Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point create unique childcare considerations. First, any reputable childcare provider should have a detailed, written emergency plan for hurricanes and flooding, including evacuation routes and communication protocols with parents. Ask about this during tours. Second, due to the transient military community, daycare centers near Havelock or in New Bern itself are often accustomed to flexible enrollment and sudden withdrawals. This can sometimes open up spots more quickly, but it also means policies on deposits and notice periods may be strictly enforced. It's also common to find centers familiar with the military fee assistance program.