The Best Daycare Centers in Saratoga, NC
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Saratoga. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Saratoga
Wilson County Head Start
Wilson County Head Start Program
Wilson County Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education and family support services to low-income families throughout Wilson County, including Saratoga residents. The program employs a research-based curriculum focused on school readiness, with qualified teachers holding early childhood credentials. Services include health screenings, nutritious meals, family engagement activities, and developmental assessments. The center maintains low student-teacher ratios and offers transportation services for eligible families, making it accessible to rural communities like Saratoga.
Daycare Services:
Little People's Child Care Center
Little People's Child Care Center
Little People's Child Care Center serves families throughout Wilson County with a comprehensive educational program for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years. The center features a structured curriculum that incorporates Creative Curriculum components with hands-on learning activities. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and dedicated learning centers. Staff members hold early childhood certifications and participate in ongoing professional development. The center emphasizes safety with secure entry systems, regular safety drills, and comprehensive background checks for all employees.
Daycare Services:
The Learning Tree
The Learning Tree Child Development Center
The Learning Tree offers a nurturing educational environment with a focus on whole-child development. The center serves Wilson County families with age-appropriate curricula that balance academic preparation with social-emotional learning. Features include structured learning centers, technology integration, and outdoor exploration areas. The staff includes experienced early childhood educators with degrees and certifications in child development. The center maintains strong parent communication through daily reports, parent-teacher conferences, and family events, while prioritizing safety with monitored access and comprehensive emergency protocols.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Saratoga, NC
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Saratoga, NC, and how can I verify a facility's compliance?
In Saratoga, NC, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE). This includes family childcare homes and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, and program activities. To verify a facility's compliance and view its latest inspection reports, you can use the "Child Care Search" tool on the official NC DHHS website. You can search by the provider's name or by zip code (27871 for Saratoga). It's highly recommended to check this database, as it will show any licensing status, star rating (on a 1 to 5 scale), and details of any non-compliance issues.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in the Saratoga area, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Saratoga and surrounding Beaufort County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $650 to $850 per month, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging $600 to $750 per month. Costs can vary based on the facility's star rating, hours of operation, and whether meals are included. For financial assistance, North Carolina's Subsidized Child Care Program helps eligible low- and moderate-income families. You can apply through the Beaufort County Department of Social Services. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's important to ask directly during your search.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Saratoga, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the limited number of licensed childcare facilities in Saratoga and the surrounding rural area, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant care. It is not uncommon for popular centers or highly-rated family homes to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. We strongly recommend that expecting parents or families planning a move to the area begin their search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during the second trimester of pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before care is needed. Be prepared to place a deposit (which is often refundable or applicable to future tuition) to secure a spot on multiple lists.
Are there any unique outdoor or agricultural-based childcare programs in Saratoga that take advantage of the rural setting?
Yes, Saratoga's rural character in eastern North Carolina does support some childcare programs with a strong emphasis on outdoor and nature-based learning. While not extremely common, there are licensed family childcare homes and smaller centers in the area that incorporate garden activities, animal interaction (like chickens), and ample outdoor play in natural settings into their daily curriculum. When touring facilities, ask specifically about their outdoor play philosophy, the safety and size of their play areas, and if they have any special programs related to local farming or nature. These types of programs are often in high demand, so inquire about availability early.
What backup or emergency childcare options exist for parents in Saratoga if our regular provider is closed or our child is mildly ill?
Backup childcare options in a smaller community like Saratoga can be challenging but not impossible. First, check if your primary daycare center is part of a network that has a sister facility in a nearby town like Greenville or Washington that may accept children for short-term care. Some licensed family childcare homes may offer occasional drop-in care, but you must establish a relationship and complete paperwork in advance. For sick child care, standard daycare centers in NC typically cannot accept children with contagious illnesses. Your best local resources may be trusted family, friends, or seeking a certified in-home babysitter through community networks like local Facebook groups (e.g., "Saratoga, NC Community") or referrals from other parents. Planning ahead with a trusted backup sitter is crucial.