The Best Daycare Centers in Providence, NC
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Providence. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Providence
Primrose School of West Forsyth
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of West Forsyth offers a balanced learning approach through their exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum, combining purposeful play with nurturing guidance from degreed teachers. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor learning environments. Their Balanced Learning approach focuses on character development, literacy, math, science, and creative arts. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The center maintains low student-teacher ratios and provides nutritious meals prepared on-site. Parents appreciate the strong communication through daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences.
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The Goddard School of Clemmons
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Clemmons provides a play-based learning environment with F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that encourages children to develop critical thinking skills through hands-on activities. The facility includes secure keypad entry, multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups, and bright, well-equipped classrooms. All lead teachers have degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the school maintains state-mandated ratios or better. The curriculum focuses on social-emotional development, literacy, STEM concepts, and creative expression. Parents consistently praise the engaging learning environment and the school's commitment to safety and communication.
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Children's Friend
Children's Friend
Children's Friend in Winston-Salem offers a comprehensive early childhood program with a focus on developmental appropriateness and individualized learning. The center features secure facilities, age-specific playgrounds, and classrooms equipped with learning centers for literacy, math, science, and creative arts. Their educational approach combines structured curriculum with child-directed activities, emphasizing social skills, emotional development, and school readiness. Staff includes certified teachers with early childhood credentials, and the center maintains excellent teacher-child ratios. The program includes family engagement opportunities and comprehensive health and safety protocols. Parents value the nurturing environment and strong educational foundation provided.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Providence, NC
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Providence, NC, and how can I verify a center's compliance?
In Providence, NC, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE). Licensing ensures providers meet standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, and child-to-staff ratios (e.g., 1:5 for infants). You can verify a center's license, view its compliance history, and check for any serious violations by using the "Child Care Search" tool on the official NC DHHS website. It's also recommended to visit the facility in person and ask to see their current license certificate, which should be posted. Local providers are subject to unannounced inspections, and their ratings (from 1 to 5 stars) are publicly available, giving you insight into their quality beyond minimum requirements.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Providence, NC?
In the Providence area and surrounding Johnston County, costs can vary based on the type of care and the center's star rating. On average, parents can expect to pay between $800 and $1,200 per month for full-time infant care at a licensed center. Family childcare homes may offer slightly lower rates, typically ranging from $650 to $950 monthly. For toddlers, costs often decrease by about $50-$150 per month. It's important to note that these are estimates, and prices can be higher for highly-rated 4- or 5-star programs. We recommend contacting facilities directly for their current rates and inquiring about any available subsidies through the NC Child Care Subsidy Program, which can help eligible families offset costs.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Providence, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, waitlists are common at many licensed daycare centers in and around Providence. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists **at least 6 to 12 months before you need care**, particularly if you are seeking an infant spot. Some highly sought-after centers may have even longer waits. When touring facilities, always ask about their current waitlist length, the process (e.g., if a deposit is required), and how often it updates. Exploring nearby family childcare homes or centers in neighboring towns like Clayton or Smithfield can provide additional options with potentially shorter wait times.
What resources are available in Providence to help me find and compare local childcare options?
Parents in Providence have several key local resources. The primary resource is the **Johnston County Partnership for Children (JCPC)**, which serves as your local Smart Start agency. They offer a Child Care Referral Service to help you find licensed providers that match your needs. You can also use the statewide NC Child Care Search online database to filter by location, age, and star rating. Additionally, connecting with local parent groups on social media (like Facebook groups for Johnston County parents) can provide personal recommendations and insights into the reputation and day-to-day operations of specific providers in the community.
What are some key questions to ask during a tour of a daycare center in Providence, specific to local considerations?
Beyond general questions, tailor your tour to local factors. Key questions include: 1) "What is your star rating from the NC DCDEE, and what are you currently working to improve?" 2) "How do you handle emergency preparedness for local risks like severe thunderstorms or tornadoes?" 3) "Can you describe your outdoor play policy given our hot/humid summers and mild winters?" 4) "Do you participate in the Johnston County Partnership for Children's quality improvement programs or nutrition programs?" 5) "What is your policy on sick children, especially regarding common local illnesses like RSV or seasonal flu?" Asking about staff turnover rates and how they meet NC's required annual training hours will also give you a sense of the center's stability and commitment to professional development.