The Best Daycare Centers in Toast, NC
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Toast. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Toast
Mount Airy Children's Center
Mount Airy Children's Center
Mount Airy Children's Center is a highly-regarded facility serving the Toast area with a comprehensive educational approach. They offer a structured curriculum that includes literacy development, math readiness, science exploration, and social-emotional learning. The center features qualified early childhood educators with low teacher-to-child ratios, secure entry systems, and modern facilities with both indoor learning centers and outdoor playgrounds. Their program emphasizes hands-on learning through play-based activities while maintaining strong safety protocols and regular parent communication. They provide nutritious meals and snacks as part of their program.
Daycare Services:
Kids R Kids Learning Academy of Mount Airy
Kids R Kids International
As part of the respected Kids R Kids franchise, this center brings nationally-developed curriculum standards to the Toast service area. Their educational approach combines academic preparation with character development, featuring STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) activities and literacy-focused programming. The facility includes secure video monitoring for parents, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers for different developmental stages. Staff members hold early childhood education credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. The center emphasizes both school readiness and social development through structured daily schedules.
Daycare Services:
Cross Creek Early Learning Center
Cross Creek Early Learning Center
Cross Creek Early Learning Center provides quality childcare services to families in the Toast region with a focus on whole-child development. Their curriculum balances academic foundations with creative expression and physical development. The center features experienced educators who implement developmentally appropriate practices, regular assessment of developmental milestones, and individualized learning plans. Safety measures include secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and maintained teacher-to-child ratios. The facility offers bright, well-organized classrooms, age-appropriate learning materials, and outdoor play spaces designed for different age groups.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Toast, NC
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Toast, NC?
In Toast and the surrounding Randolph County area, full-time daycare costs can vary based on the type of facility. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $650 and $850 per month for an infant or toddler. In-home family childcare homes are often slightly more affordable, typically ranging from $550 to $750 per month. These rates are generally lower than the state average for North Carolina, reflecting the rural nature of the area. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. Some providers may also offer sibling discounts.
How can I verify that a daycare in Toast is properly licensed and check its compliance history?
All childcare providers in Toast must be licensed by the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE). The most reliable way to verify a provider's status and history is to use the online "Child Care Search" tool on the NC DHHS website. You can search by the provider's name, city (Toast), or zip code. This tool will show you the license type (center or family home), star rating (on a 1 to 5 scale), the date of its last inspection, and any serious compliance issues or violations. You can also contact the Randolph County Department of Social Services for local assistance and recommendations.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Toast, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the smaller number of providers in a town like Toast, waitlists for infant and toddler spots, in particular, can be common and may range from a few months to over a year. It is highly recommended that parents begin their search during pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before their needed start date. When contacting centers or family homes, ask directly about their current waitlist length and policy. Some may require a non-refundable deposit to hold a spot. Exploring options in nearby towns like Asheboro or Denton can provide more alternatives if local waitlists are prohibitive.
What types of childcare settings are most commonly available in Toast, NC?
Toast primarily offers two types of licensed childcare settings. The first is family childcare homes, which are operated in a provider's residence and typically care for a smaller group of children, offering a more home-like environment. The second is childcare centers, which are larger facilities, though in Toast these may be smaller, church-affiliated centers or private programs. Given the rural setting, there are fewer large corporate chains. Many parents in the area also utilize informal, legally unlicensed arrangements with family, friends, or neighbors, but these are not regulated by the state for health, safety, or curriculum standards.
What resources or programs are available in Toast to help lower-income families afford quality childcare?
The primary resource is the North Carolina Child Care Subsidy Program, often referred to as "child care assistance" or a "voucher." Eligibility is based on family size, income, and reason for care (such as work or school). You apply through the Randolph County Department of Social Services. Some local providers in Toast are approved to accept these subsidies. Additionally, you may inquire about sliding scale fees directly with individual daycare providers. For preschool-aged children, the NC Pre-K program is a free, high-quality option, but availability in Toast itself is limited; families often access these programs through the Randolph County School system or partnered centers in larger neighboring communities.