The Best Daycare Centers in Selma, NC
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Selma. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Selma
Little Angels Learning Center
Independent
Little Angels Learning Center is a locally-owned childcare facility serving Selma with a strong focus on early childhood development through play-based learning and structured activities. The center employs state-licensed teachers with backgrounds in early education and maintains low teacher-to-child ratios for personalized attention. Safety is prioritized with secure entry systems, regular drills, and comprehensive background checks. The curriculum includes literacy, math readiness, and social skills development, with outdoor play areas and nutritious meal programs. Parent communication is emphasized through daily reports and family events, contributing to high satisfaction in the community.
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KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education
KinderCare in Smithfield offers a research-based curriculum focused on whole-child development, serving families in Selma and surrounding areas. The center features age-appropriate learning environments with dedicated spaces for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, led by qualified teachers with CPR and First Aid certifications. Safety protocols include coded entry systems and regular sanitation. The educational approach integrates literacy, STEM, and creative arts, with progress tracking and parent updates via mobile app. Extracurricular activities and flexible scheduling options support working families, backed by strong parent reviews for staff dedication and program quality.
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Primrose School of Clayton
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Clayton provides a premium early education experience with its Balanced Learning® curriculum, blending academic readiness with character development. Serving Selma and the broader Johnston County area, the school employs degreed teachers and maintains low student-teacher ratios for individualized instruction. Facilities include secure, age-specific classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and technology-enhanced learning tools. Safety measures feature keypad entry, health screenings, and emergency preparedness plans. The program emphasizes literacy, math, and social-emotional skills, with parent involvement through regular conferences and events, resulting in exceptional parent satisfaction and accreditation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Selma, NC
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool for an infant or toddler in Selma, NC?
In Selma and the surrounding Johnston County area, daycare costs are generally more affordable than in larger metropolitan areas like Raleigh, but have been rising. For full-time care, you can expect to pay approximately $150 to $225 per week for a toddler (ages 2-3) and $175 to $250 per week for an infant (under 2 years old). These rates are for licensed centers and family childcare homes. Prices can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum (e.g., faith-based or academic-focused), and staff-to-child ratios. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, and supplies. Some centers in Selma may also offer discounted rates for siblings.
How can I verify if a daycare in Selma is properly licensed and check its compliance history?
All childcare facilities in Selma must be licensed by the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE). You can verify a provider's license and review their compliance history online through the NC Child Care Search tool. This public database shows the facility's star rating (a 1 to 5-star scale based on education standards and program standards), any recent violations, and the results of their last monitoring visit. You can also contact the Johnston County Department of Social Services for local referrals and information. Always visit a potential daycare in person and ask to see their current license certificate, which should be posted.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Selma, and how far in advance should I start looking?
For infant care and highly-rated preschool programs in Selma, waitlists are common and can be several months long, especially for centers with high star ratings. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a move start their search at least 6 to 9 months before their needed start date. For toddler and preschool-age openings, a 3-6 month lead time is advisable. When contacting centers, ask specifically about their waitlist process: if there's a fee to be added, how often they update families, and estimated timelines. Exploring options in nearby towns like Smithfield or Clayton can provide more availability if Selma waitlists are full.
What financial assistance programs are available to help Selma families afford childcare?
Several state and federal programs can help eligible Selma families. The primary resource is the North Carolina Child Care Subsidy Program (often referred to as "vouchers" or "subsidy"), administered locally through the Johnston County Department of Social Services. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (work, school, etc.). You can apply online via the NC DHHS website or in person. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships. For military families stationed near Selma, there may be access to fee assistance through the Department of Defense. The Smart Start network, via the Johnston County Partnership for Children, is another key local resource for information and potential support.
What are the main types of childcare options available within Selma city limits?
Parents in Selma have several licensed options to consider. These include: 1) **Childcare Centers**: These are larger facilities, often with structured curricula and multiple classrooms (e.g., preschools, church-affiliated centers). 2) **Family Childcare Homes**: Licensed providers who care for a smaller number of children in their own residence, often offering a more home-like environment and flexible hours. 3) **School-Age Programs**: Offered by some centers or the Johnston County Public Schools system for before/after-school care and summer camps for children 5 and older. There are also a limited number of **drop-in or part-time preschool programs**, often associated with local churches. Due to Selma's size, the number of options is more limited than in a big city, so many families also consider providers in neighboring communities.