The Best Daycare Centers in Shelby, NC
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Shelby. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Shelby
The Goddard School of Shelby
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Shelby offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and rigorous safety protocols. Certified teachers implement age-appropriate curriculum focusing on literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills development. The school provides nutritious meals and snacks, spacious indoor learning environments, and safe outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Parent communication includes daily activity reports and regular parent-teacher conferences.
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Kiddie Academy of Shelby
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Shelby provides comprehensive educational childcare through their Life Essentials® curriculum that emphasizes character development, social-emotional learning, and school readiness. The academy features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials and low student-to-teacher ratios. Safety measures include secure entry systems, comprehensive emergency protocols, and regular safety drills. The facility offers modern classrooms, age-appropriate learning materials, and outdoor play areas. Additional services include technology-enriched learning, music and movement programs, and community service projects that teach social responsibility.
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First Baptist Church Child Development Center
First Baptist Church of Shelby
First Baptist Church Child Development Center offers a nurturing Christian environment combined with high-quality early childhood education. The center provides a balanced curriculum that integrates faith-based values with academic preparation, including literacy development, mathematics readiness, and social skills. Staff members are experienced early childhood educators with ongoing professional development training. The facility features secure classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers for different developmental stages. The center maintains excellent safety records with controlled access, comprehensive background checks, and regular health and safety inspections. Parent involvement is encouraged through regular communication and family events.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Shelby, NC
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Shelby, NC?
In Shelby, costs vary based on the child's age and the type of facility. For an infant (under 18 months), full-time care at a licensed center typically ranges from $150 to $200 per week. For toddlers and preschoolers, weekly rates are generally between $120 and $170. In-home family childcare homes are often slightly more affordable, ranging from $100 to $150 per week. It's important to note that these are average estimates; some centers with specialized curricula or extended hours may charge more. Financial assistance is available through the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) Subsidy Program (often called the "child care voucher" program) for eligible families in Cleveland County.
How can I verify if a daycare in Shelby is properly licensed and check its compliance history?
All childcare facilities in North Carolina, including those in Shelby, must be licensed by the NC DCDEE. You can verify a provider's license and review their compliance history online through the **NC Child Care Search** tool. This official state database allows you to search by facility name, location, or provider. It shows the license status, star rating (a quality rating system from 1 to 5 stars), and details of any regulatory violations, complaints, or sanitation inspections. You can also contact the Cleveland County Partnership for Children, a local resource organization, for guidance on interpreting these records and finding quality-rated programs.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Shelby, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common, especially for infant care slots at highly-rated centers in Shelby. Due to limited capacity and high demand for quality care, it is strongly recommended that expecting parents or families new to the area begin their search **6 to 12 months** in advance. For toddler and preschool spots, a 3 to 6-month lead time is advisable. When contacting centers, always ask about their current waitlist length, any associated fees to join the list, and how often they update families on their status. Exploring multiple options, including licensed family childcare homes, which may have shorter wait times, is a good strategy.
What are some local resources in Shelby to help me find and evaluate childcare options?
The primary local resource is the **Cleveland County Partnership for Children (CCPFC)**. They are your "go-to" agency for connecting with licensed providers, understanding quality indicators like the NC Star Rated License, and accessing parenting support. They can provide personalized referrals. Additionally, you can use the statewide NC Child Care Search website. For school-age care, Cleveland County Schools may have information about before/after-school programs. Local community centers, like the Shelby City Park or the LeGrand Center, sometimes offer preschool or seasonal programs worth investigating.
What are the key differences between a daycare center and a family childcare home in Shelby, and how do I decide which is right for my child?
In Shelby, **licensed childcare centers** are facilities in commercial or institutional buildings, caring for larger groups of children divided by age. They often have multiple staff, structured curricula, and set operating hours (e.g., 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM). **Licensed family childcare homes** operate out of the provider's residence, caring for a smaller, mixed-age group (up to 8 children) in a home-like setting, often with more flexible hours. Centers may offer more peer interaction and resources, while homes often provide a more familial, flexible environment with potentially lower child-to-staff ratios for mixed ages. Your decision should be based on your child's temperament, your schedule, and your preference for environment. Always ensure whichever type you choose holds a valid NC license.