The Best Daycare Centers in Shawboro, NC
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Shawboro. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Shawboro
KinderCare Learning Center of Elizabeth City
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare Learning Center of Elizabeth City provides a nationally recognized, play-based curriculum that emphasizes whole-child development through activities designed to build social, emotional, cognitive, and physical skills. The center employs highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials, CPR/first aid certifications, and ongoing training. Safety is paramount with secured entry systems, regular safety drills, and strict hygiene protocols. The facility features bright, age-appropriate classrooms, dedicated outdoor play spaces, and a nutrition program that serves balanced meals. Parents consistently report high satisfaction with the center's communication, individualized learning plans, and nurturing environment that prepares children for kindergarten and beyond.
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The Goddard School of Elizabeth City
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Elizabeth City offers a premier early childhood education program grounded in the F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience), which blends academic readiness with play-based exploration to foster creativity, critical thinking, and leadership skills. The school employs degreed and certified teachers who maintain low student-to-teacher ratios, ensuring personalized attention. The facility includes state-of-the-art classrooms, indoor and outdoor play areas, and a focus on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) activities. Safety features include keypad entry, video monitoring, and comprehensive background checks for staff. Parents highlight the school's strong community feel, transparent communication, and commitment to developmental milestones.
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Currituck County Early Childhood Center
Currituck County Schools
Currituck County Early Childhood Center is a publicly funded facility that provides high-quality early education with a focus on school readiness through a structured yet engaging curriculum aligned with North Carolina foundations for early learning. The center features certified early childhood educators and specialists who support diverse learning needs, including inclusion programs for children with disabilities. Safety is ensured through controlled access, health screenings, and emergency preparedness plans. The center offers spacious classrooms, interactive learning centers, and outdoor playgrounds designed for physical development. Parents appreciate the affordable pricing, family engagement opportunities, and the center's role in building a strong educational foundation for children in the Currituck County area, including Shawboro.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Shawboro, NC
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Shawboro, NC, and are there any local assistance programs?
In Shawboro and the surrounding Currituck County area, full-time daycare for an infant or toddler typically ranges from $650 to $850 per month. Preschool programs for children ages 3-5 are slightly less, often between $550 and $750 per month. These costs are generally lower than in larger urban areas of North Carolina but can vary based on the facility's amenities and curriculum. For financial assistance, parents can apply for the North Carolina Child Care Subsidy Program through the Currituck County Department of Social Services. Additionally, local providers like Shawboro Head Start may offer income-based preschool services. It's always recommended to inquire directly with individual centers about potential scholarships or sliding scale fees.
How can I verify the license and inspection history of a childcare home or center in Shawboro?
All licensed childcare providers in Shawboro, NC, are regulated by the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE). You can verify a provider's license and review their compliance history, including any past violations, by using the online "Child Care Search" tool on the official NC DHHS website. Simply enter the provider's name or zip code (27973 for Shawboro). This public database shows the license type (family child care home or center), star rating (from 1 to 5 stars), and detailed summaries of all monitoring visits. You can also contact the DCDEE Regional Office that serves Northeastern North Carolina for specific questions. Always choose a licensed provider to ensure they meet state health, safety, and educational standards.
Are there many options for infant care in Shawboro, and what are typical waitlist times?
Infant care (for children under 12 months) is often the most limited childcare slot in smaller communities like Shawboro. There are a handful of licensed family child care homes and possibly one or two centers in the broader area that accept infants. Due to high demand and strict staff-to-child ratios, waitlists are common. It is not unusual for a waitlist to be 3 to 6 months long, or even longer for popular providers. Parents seeking infant care are strongly advised to begin their search and get on multiple waitlists during pregnancy. Expanding your search to nearby towns like Moyock or Grandy may increase your options, though this will involve a longer commute.
What are the key differences between a licensed family child care home and a childcare center in Shawboro?
In Shawboro, your main licensed options are Family Child Care Homes (FCCH) and Child Care Centers. A FCCH is operated in the provider's residence, caring for up to 8 children (with specific limits on infants/toddlers). This setting often offers a more home-like, flexible environment with mixed-age groups and potentially lower costs. A Child Care Center operates in a commercial or institutional building, typically serving more children in age-separated classrooms with multiple staff. Centers may offer more structured educational curricula and extended hours. Both are licensed by the state, but centers are subject to more frequent formal inspections. Your choice may depend on your child's need for socialization versus a smaller setting, your schedule, and your personal preference for environment.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare provider in the Shawboro area?
When touring a potential daycare in Shawboro, go beyond the basics. First, observe the cleanliness and safety: Are outlets covered, is the playground equipment secure, and are cleaning supplies locked away? Second, watch the interactions: Are caregivers engaged at the children's level, speaking kindly, and responding to needs? Third, ask about daily routines, meal plans (are they provided?), and their policy on outdoor play—important in our rural setting. Fourth, inquire about staff qualifications, turnover rates, and their emergency plans for events like hurricanes, which can affect our coastal region. Finally, trust your instincts about the overall atmosphere. Is it a warm, welcoming place where your child would feel comfortable? Always ask for references from current parents.