The Best Daycare Centers in Windsor, NC
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Windsor. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Windsor
The Learning Experience - Greenville
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Greenville serves families throughout eastern North Carolina, including Windsor area residents. This nationally recognized center features a comprehensive early childhood education curriculum with proprietary programs like L.E.A.P. (Learning Experience Academic Program) that emphasizes phonics, foreign language exposure, and manners. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor play areas. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The center maintains low student-teacher ratios and offers enrichment programs including music, yoga, and philanthropy lessons. Parents praise the structured learning environment and consistent communication.
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Kiddie Academy of Greenville
Kiddie Academy
Kiddie Academy of Greenville provides educational childcare serving families from Windsor and surrounding communities. Their Life Essentials® curriculum focuses on character development, STEM learning, and school readiness through hands-on activities. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, age-appropriate learning materials, and dedicated outdoor play spaces. All staff members are CPR and First Aid certified with background checks completed. The academy emphasizes health and safety protocols including rigorous cleaning procedures and health screenings. Parents consistently highlight the caring staff, engaging curriculum, and excellent communication about child development progress.
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Martin Community College Child Development Center
Martin Community College
Located in nearby Williamston, this college-affiliated center serves families throughout Bertie County and surrounding areas including Windsor. As a lab school for early childhood education students, the center maintains exceptionally high standards with developmentally appropriate practices and NAEYC-aligned curriculum. The facility includes observation rooms, modern learning materials, and secure outdoor environments. Lead teachers hold bachelor's degrees in early childhood education or related fields. The center emphasizes play-based learning, social-emotional development, and school readiness skills. Parents appreciate the educational quality, experienced staff, and affordable pricing structure for the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Windsor, NC
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Windsor, NC, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Windsor and the broader Bertie County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $125 to $175 per week, while toddler and preschool care often costs between $100 and $140 per week. These rates are generally lower than the state average due to the rural nature of the region. For financial assistance, North Carolina's Child Care Subsidy Program (commonly known as "child care vouchers") is a primary resource. Eligibility is based on income, work, and/or school enrollment. Locally, you can apply through the Bertie County Department of Social Services in Windsor. Additionally, some centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How can I verify that a daycare or childcare home in Windsor is properly licensed and check its compliance history?
All licensed childcare facilities in North Carolina are regulated by the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE). To verify a provider's license and review their history, you can use the online "Child Care Facility Search" tool on the NC DHHS website. Simply enter "Windsor, NC" or the provider's name. This report will show the license status, capacity, ages served, and, crucially, any history of compliance issues or violations from state inspections. You can also contact the DCDEE's Northeastern Regional Office, which oversees Bertie County, for additional information. Always visit a facility in person and ask to see their current license certificate, which should be posted.
What types of childcare options are most commonly available in Windsor, and are waitlists a significant issue?
Windsor offers a mix of childcare options, primarily consisting of licensed childcare centers and family childcare homes. Due to its smaller population, there are fewer large corporate centers compared to urban areas; instead, you'll find more locally owned centers and home-based providers. For school-age children, the Bertie County Schools may offer before/after-school programs. Waitlists can be an issue, particularly for infant care slots, which are limited by state staff-to-child ratios. It's advisable to begin your search and get on waitlists several months in advance, especially if you need care for a child under two. Popular local centers may have longer waits than smaller family homes.
Are there any daycare centers or preschools in Windsor that participate in North Carolina's quality rating system, and what does that mean?
Yes, some providers in the area participate in the North Carolina Star Rated License system. This voluntary program assesses quality on a scale of 1 to 5 stars based on staff education, program standards, and compliance history. A higher star rating indicates a higher level of quality. You can filter for star-rated programs using the state's online Child Care Facility Search. In Windsor and Bertie County, you may find programs rated from 3 to 5 stars. Choosing a star-rated facility means the program has committed to exceeding minimum licensing requirements, which can include more structured learning activities, better teacher training, and lower staff-to-child ratios.
What should I look for or ask about specifically when touring a daycare in a rural community like Windsor?
When touring a facility in Windsor, beyond standard questions about curriculum and safety, consider factors unique to the local context. Ask about their plan for inclement weather or power outages, which can be more disruptive in rural areas. Inquire about transportation options if you need it, as public transport is limited. Since community ties are strong, ask about staff longevity and local references. Check the outdoor play area to ensure it's secure and well-maintained. Also, discuss their policy on field trips and local outings (e.g., to the Bertie County Parks or the Cape Fear River) to understand how they incorporate the local environment into learning. Finally, confirm their communication methods, as reliable internet/cell service can vary in some parts of the county.
Childcare Insights for Windsor
Finding quality, reliable childcare is one of the most significant decisions a family makes. If you’re a parent in Windsor, North Carolina, typing “day cares near me” into your search bar, you’re likely seeking not just a service, but a nurturing partner in your child’s early development. The good news is that the Windsor community and the broader Bertie County area offer several wonderful options, each with its own unique character and approach to caring for our youngest residents.
Your search in Windsor will likely lead you to a mix of licensed childcare centers, faith-based preschool programs, and dedicated family childcare homes. One of the first local considerations is understanding the rhythm of our area. Many families here appreciate programs that blend structured learning with the warmth of a small-town setting. When you begin visiting places, take note of how they incorporate the local environment—perhaps through outdoor play spaces that embrace Eastern North Carolina’s natural beauty or through community connections that might include a visit from a local firefighter or librarian. This local flavor can make a child’s experience feel grounded and familiar.
A practical tip as you start your search is to look beyond the immediate Windsor zip code. Given our rural setting, some excellent providers may be in nearby communities like Ahoskie, Lewiston-Woodville, or even across the Cashie River. Expanding your radius slightly can open up more possibilities. However, also consider your daily commute and the importance of convenience, especially during those early morning routines or if you need to reach your child quickly. Checking a provider’s operating hours against typical work schedules in our agricultural and service-based local economy is crucial.
The most important step is always the in-person visit. When you tour a facility in Windsor, don’t just look at the toys and playgrounds—listen. Is the atmosphere calm and happy? Do the caregivers engage with children at their eye level? Ask about their curriculum and how they prepare children for the transition into Bertie County Schools. Inquire about their policies on communication; a good center will keep you updated about your child’s day, something that feels especially reassuring in a close-knit community. It’s also wise to ask for references from other local parents. The word-of-mouth network in Windsor is strong, and a recommendation from a neighbor can be incredibly valuable.
Finally, trust your instincts. You know your child best. The right daycare in Windsor will feel like an extension of your family’s values, a place where your child is not just safe, but is encouraged to explore, make friends, and grow. Taking the time to find that perfect fit provides priceless peace of mind, knowing your little one is in caring hands while you’re at work, contributing to the vitality of our wonderful town. Your search is an investment in your child’s happiness and your family’s well-being right here in the heart of Bertie County.