The Best Daycare Centers in Washington, NC
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Washington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Washington
Little Blessings Child Development Center
Little Blessings Child Development Center
Little Blessings Child Development Center is a highly-regarded local facility offering comprehensive early childhood education programs from infants through school-age children. They utilize a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation, focusing on social-emotional development and kindergarten readiness. The center features state-licensed teachers with early childhood credentials, secure entry systems, and age-appropriate learning environments with both indoor and outdoor play areas. Parents consistently praise the nurturing staff, clean facilities, and strong communication about child development progress.
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Primrose School of Greenville
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Greenville serves the broader Washington area with their nationally recognized Balanced Learning® curriculum that blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The facility features modern security systems, dedicated age-specific classrooms, and extensive outdoor learning environments. Their curriculum emphasizes character development, literacy, mathematics, and STEM concepts through hands-on activities. Staff members hold early childhood degrees and ongoing professional development, with low student-teacher ratios ensuring individualized attention. The center maintains excellent state compliance records and offers nutritious meal programs.
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The Goddard School of Greenville
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Greenville provides high-quality early childhood education to families in the Washington region through their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience). This play-based curriculum focuses on academic, social, and emotional development through hands-on exploration and STEAM activities. The facility features secure entry systems, bright classrooms with learning centers, and multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups. All teachers are early childhood educated and participate in ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes parent partnership with daily communication and regular progress updates, while maintaining excellent health and safety protocols.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Washington, NC
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Washington, NC?
In Washington, NC, full-time daycare costs can vary based on the type of facility and the age of your child. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay approximately $650 to $900 per month for an infant or toddler. In-home family childcare homes often range from $500 to $750 per month. These rates are generally lower than those in larger North Carolina metros like Raleigh, but costs have been rising. It's important to ask what is included in the tuition, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. Additionally, many families in Beaufort County qualify for and utilize the North Carolina Child Care Subsidy Program to help offset these costs.
How can I verify the license and inspection history of a daycare in Washington?
All childcare facilities in Washington, 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 online through the DCDEE's "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 dates of their last inspections. You can also call the DCDEE's regional office for the Eastern region for specific questions. Always visit a potential daycare in person and ask the director to see their most recent posted license and inspection summary, which they are required to display.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Washington, and how far in advance should I apply?
Waitlists are common for infant and toddler spots at the higher-rated childcare centers in Washington, especially those with 4 or 5-star ratings from the state. For these popular programs, it is advisable to begin your search and get on a waitlist at least 6 to 9 months before your needed start date, and some parents report applying as soon as they know they are expecting. For preschool-age children (3-5 years), availability is often better, but a 3-4 month lead time is still recommended. Don't hesitate to get on multiple waitlists and check in periodically. Some local in-home providers may have shorter or no waitlists, so exploring all options is key.
What local resources in Beaufort County can help me find and choose quality childcare?
The primary local resource for parents is the **Beaufort-Hyde Partnership for Children**, which is your local Smart Start agency. They offer a free Child Care Referral Service to help parents find licensed options that match their needs, location, and budget. They can also provide guidance on understanding quality indicators like the NC Star Rated License. Additionally, the Partnership may offer information about early intervention services and parenting workshops. You can contact them directly or visit their website. For financial assistance, they can provide information and referrals for applying to the state Child Care Subsidy program.
What are the main differences between a childcare center and a family childcare home in Washington, and how do I decide?
In Washington, your two main licensed options are childcare centers and family childcare homes (often run in a provider's residence). **Centers** typically have multiple classrooms, more staff, and a structured curriculum. They may offer more peer interaction and often have longer operating hours. **Family childcare homes** provide a smaller, home-like setting with mixed-age groups, which can be beneficial for siblings. They often offer more flexible schedules and may feel more personal. When deciding, consider your child's temperament, your schedule, and your priorities. Visit both types. Check their DCDEE star ratings and inspection reports for quality comparison. Many Washington parents value the convenience and community feel of a quality in-home provider, while others prefer the resources and structure of a center.