The Best Daycare Centers in Southport, NC
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Southport. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Southport
First Baptist Weekday Ministries
First Baptist Church of Southport
First Baptist Weekday Ministries is a highly-regarded Christian-based childcare center offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. The center features a play-based learning curriculum combined with structured academic preparation, focusing on social, emotional, and cognitive development. Staff members are certified in early childhood education and maintain low teacher-to-child ratios. The facility includes secure classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated infant care areas with separate sleeping and feeding spaces. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, strong communication, and the center's commitment to safety and developmental milestones tracking.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in nearby Leland serves the greater Southport area with a nationally-recognized F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with creative expression. The center features state-certified teachers with early childhood education degrees, secure keypad entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. Curriculum includes STEAM learning, language development, and social skills building through structured play. Facilities include modern classrooms, multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups, and dedicated art and music areas. The school maintains excellent parent communication through daily reports and a proprietary mobile app.
Daycare Services:
Primrose School at Mayfaire
Primrose Schools
Primrose School at Mayfaire in Wilmington serves Southport families with a premier Balanced Learning® curriculum that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from master's-level educated early childhood specialists. The center features advanced security systems including biometric entry, live-streaming classroom cameras for parents, and comprehensive background checks for all staff. The research-based curriculum focuses on literacy, character development, and hands-on learning through their exclusive Primrose Friends characters and storybooks. Facilities include chef-prepared nutritious meals, age-specific playgrounds, music and movement studios, and technology-enhanced classrooms. The school maintains exceptional staff retention rates and receives consistent praise for its educational quality and safe environment.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Southport, NC
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Southport, NC, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Southport, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $800 to $1,100 per month, while preschool for a 3-5 year old generally costs between $650 and $900 per month. These rates can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum (like Montessori or faith-based), and staff-to-child ratios. For financial assistance, parents can apply for the North Carolina Child Care Subsidy Program (commonly called subsidy or vouchers) through the Brunswick County Department of Social Services. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's also worth checking with employers in the Wilmington/Brunswick County area, as some may offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).
How long are waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Southport, and when should I start looking for infant care?
Due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, waitlists at licensed centers in Southport can be significant. It is not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer for infant rooms. We strongly recommend starting your search and getting on waitlists as soon as you know you are expecting, ideally during the first or second trimester. For preschool-age children, waitlists tend to be shorter, around 3-6 months. Be proactive: contact multiple centers, get on their lists, and follow up periodically. Some smaller, licensed family childcare homes in Southport may have more immediate availability.
What are the state licensing requirements for childcare providers in North Carolina, and how can I verify a Southport center's compliance?
All childcare centers and family childcare homes in North Carolina must be licensed by the NC Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE). Key requirements include background checks for staff, specific staff-to-child ratios by age, health and safety standards, and ongoing training. You can verify a provider's license status, view their star rating (a 1 to 5-star quality rating system), and read any recent inspection reports online through the **NC Child Care Search** tool on the official DCDEE website. Simply search by the provider's name or by Southport's zip code (28461). Always choose a licensed provider to ensure basic health and safety standards are met.
Are there seasonal or summer-only childcare options available in Southport for school-age children?
Yes, Southport offers several options for school-age childcare during summer and school holidays. Many local daycare centers and preschools transition to summer camp programs for children ages 5-12, which often include field trips, arts and crafts, and outdoor activities. The City of Southport Parks & Recreation Department typically runs a popular summer day camp. Additionally, organizations like the Brunswick County Parks & Recreation and nearby providers in Boiling Spring Lakes or Oak Island offer camps that Southport residents can access. These programs fill quickly, so registration usually opens in early spring. Some local churches also host Vacation Bible School (VBS) programs, which are often free or low-cost and run for one week.
What should I look for when touring a daycare facility in Southport, given our coastal environment?
When touring a daycare in Southport, in addition to standard checks for cleanliness, curriculum, and staff interaction, pay special attention to factors related to the coastal setting. **Ask about their hurricane/ severe weather policy:** How do they communicate closures? Where do they evacuate to if necessary? **Inspect outdoor play areas:** Ensure they are well-shaded and have measures to protect children from intense sun and mosquitoes. **Ask about water safety:** If they have any water play features or pools, inquire about supervision and safety protocols. Also, consider the center's proximity to major routes like Highway 211 or 133, as this can affect commute times and accessibility during seasonal tourist traffic. Finally, a quality center should have a clear plan for hot, humid days to keep children cool and hydrated.
Childcare Insights for Southport
Finding the right part-time daycare option can feel like searching for a hidden treasure, especially when you're balancing work, family, and the unique rhythm of life here in Southport. The good news is that our charming coastal community offers several wonderful avenues for parents seeking flexible, high-quality childcare that doesn’t require a full-time commitment. Whether you're a parent with a part-time job, need care for a few mornings to run errands or simply want to socialize your little one, there are local solutions designed to fit your family's schedule.
When beginning your search for part-time daycare in Southport, it’s helpful to understand the local landscape. Many in-home family childcare providers in our neighborhoods often offer more flexible hourly or daily rates compared to larger centers, which can be perfect for irregular or limited schedules. It's always worth asking at local churches and community centers, as they sometimes host mother's morning out programs or preschools with part-time enrollment options. Given Southport's tight-knit community, one of your most valuable resources will be other parents. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations at the playground near the waterfront, in local Facebook groups like "Southport Talk," or at the library's story time. Personal referrals in a town like ours often lead to the most trusted and beloved caregivers.
As you explore options, consider the practicalities of our location. Southport’s appeal means summer can bring increased traffic and seasonal changes to some programs. Inquire if a provider’s schedule shifts with the tourist season or if they maintain consistent availability year-round. For parents who commute to Wilmington or Brunswick County, a provider located near the 211/87 corridors might offer easier drop-off logistics. Always schedule a visit to any potential daycare. Look for a safe, engaging environment and trust your instincts about the caregiver’s warmth and professionalism. Ask specific questions about their policies on sick children, their daily routine, and how they handle the beautiful but hot Southport summers—is there shaded outdoor play and hydration always available?
Remember, part-time care is an investment in your child’s social development and your own peace of mind. It allows your toddler to make friends, learn through play, and enjoy new experiences while giving you the few precious hours you need. The perfect part-time fit is out there, blending the reliability you need with the nurturing, small-town feel that makes raising a family in Southport so special. Start your search with conversations, be clear about your needed days and hours, and soon you’ll find a supportive setup that helps your family thrive amidst the gentle pace of our coastal life.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Southport: