The Best Daycare Centers in Willard, NC
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Willard. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Willard
The Goddard School of Wilmington
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Wilmington offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their highly qualified teachers implement age-appropriate curriculum focusing on literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, and arts. The facility features secure entry systems, modern classrooms, and age-specific playgrounds. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and provide regular parent communication through daily reports and parent-teacher conferences. The school emphasizes character development and social-emotional learning alongside academic preparation.
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Primrose School of Wilmington at Medical Center
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Wilmington provides Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. Their research-based curriculum includes character development, literacy, mathematics, and STEM activities. The school features secure facilities with coded entry systems, dedicated age-appropriate learning environments, and outdoor play areas. They offer nutritious meals and snacks through their exclusive Primrose Nutrition Program. Teachers receive ongoing professional development and maintain CPR/first aid certification. The school is known for its strong parent partnerships and comprehensive communication system.
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Kids 'R' Kids Learning Academy of Wilmington
Kids 'R' Kids International
Kids 'R' Kids Learning Academy offers the exclusive Brain Development Curriculum for infants through school-age children, focusing on whole-child development. Their state-of-the-art facility includes secured entry systems, webcam monitoring for parents, and sanitization stations throughout. The curriculum emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills through hands-on learning experiences. They maintain small class sizes with degreed lead teachers and provide regular developmental assessments. The academy features indoor gyms for active play and age-appropriate playgrounds. Their comprehensive program includes meal service and extended hours to accommodate working families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Willard, NC
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Willard, NC?
In Willard and the surrounding Pender County area, full-time daycare costs can vary based on the type of facility. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay approximately $600 to $800 per month for an infant or toddler. In-home family childcare homes may offer slightly lower rates, typically ranging from $500 to $700 per month. It's important to note that costs are generally lower than in larger metropolitan areas like Wilmington, but availability can be limited. Many facilities include meals and basic supplies in their weekly or monthly rate. We recommend contacting providers directly for the most current pricing and to inquire about any potential sibling discounts.
How can I verify that a daycare in Willard is properly licensed and what should I look for during a tour?
All childcare providers in North Carolina must be licensed by the NC Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE). You can verify a provider's license status, view their compliance history, and check for any serious violations by using the "Child Care Search" tool on the official NC DHHS website. When touring a facility in Willard, ask to see their current license. During the visit, look for clear evidence of structured daily activities, age-appropriate toys, clean and safe indoor/outdoor spaces, secure pick-up/drop-off procedures, and a low child-to-staff ratio. Observe how staff interact with the children. Don't hesitate to ask about staff qualifications, emergency plans, and their sick child policy.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Willard, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the smaller number of dedicated childcare centers in Willard, waitlists are common, especially for infant care slots. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during your second trimester of pregnancy or at least 6 to 9 months before you need care. Some popular local centers may have waitlists exceeding 12 months. In addition to centers, explore licensed family childcare homes, which may have more immediate or flexible openings. Being proactive, getting on multiple lists, and following up regularly are key strategies for securing a spot in this area.
What childcare assistance programs are available for families in Willard, NC?
Eligible families in Willard can apply for the North Carolina Child Care Subsidy Program, which helps low- and moderate-income families pay for childcare. This program is administered by the Pender County Department of Social Services. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and the reason for care (such as employment or school). You can apply online through the NC DHHS website or in person at the Pender County DSS office in Burgaw. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or private scholarships. It's also worth checking with your employer to see if they offer a Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA), which uses pre-tax dollars for childcare expenses.
What are my options for part-time, drop-in, or after-school care in Willard?
Full-time, structured programs are more common, but part-time and after-school options do exist in Willard. For school-age children, the local elementary schools may offer before and after-school programs on-site or can provide information on local options. For younger children, some family childcare homes offer more flexible, part-time schedules (e.g., 2-3 days a week). Drop-in care is extremely rare in this small community and typically not offered by licensed centers. Your best bet for non-traditional hours is to network with other parents for babysitting co-ops or seek out individual, vetted babysitters. The Pender County Parks and Recreation department may also offer seasonal camps and programs during school breaks.