The Best Daycare Centers in Duncan, SC
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Duncan. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Duncan
KinderCare Learning Center at Spartanburg
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare at Spartanburg is a highly-rated childcare center known for its balanced approach to early education, blending play-based learning with structured academic preparation. The center follows the Early Foundations curriculum, which emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development through hands-on activities. Teachers are qualified with early childhood education credentials and maintain low teacher-to-child ratios for personalized attention. Safety is prioritized with secured entry systems, regular drills, and clean, age-appropriate classrooms. Parents praise the center's strong communication, nutritious meal programs, and inclusive environment that supports diverse learning needs. Its proximity to Duncan makes it a convenient option for families in the area.
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Primrose School of Spartanburg
Primrose Schools Franchising Company
Primrose School of Spartanburg offers a premier early education experience with its Balanced Learning curriculum, integrating character development, academics, and play. The school focuses on whole-child development through activities like music, art, and physical education, led by degreed teachers with specialized training in early childhood. Facilities include secure, modern classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and technology-enhanced learning spaces. Safety protocols include background-checked staff, health screenings, and a strict pick-up/drop-off process. Highly regarded for its parent partnerships and consistent track record, this center serves Duncan families with flexible scheduling and a nurturing environment that fosters curiosity and growth.
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The Goddard School of Spartanburg
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Spartanburg provides a play-based learning environment rooted in the F.L.EX. (Fun Learning Experience) program, which promotes cognitive, social, and physical development through STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) activities. Staff hold early childhood degrees and participate in ongoing professional development, ensuring high-quality instruction and low student-teacher ratios. The center features safe, stimulating indoor and outdoor play areas, along with robust safety measures like video monitoring and emergency preparedness plans. Parents value the school's focus on individualized learning plans, strong community involvement, and healthy meal options, making it a top choice for Duncan-area families seeking a well-rounded childcare experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Duncan, SC
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Duncan, SC, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Duncan, South Carolina, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the South Carolina Department of Social Services (SCDSS). This includes family home daycares (serving up to 6 children) and group childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and staff training. To verify a facility's license and view any compliance history, you can use the SCDSS Child Care Search tool online. It's highly recommended to cross-reference this with a visit to the facility, as you can ask to see their current license certificate and ask about their most recent inspection report.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Duncan, SC?
The cost of childcare in Duncan is generally more affordable than in larger South Carolina metros like Greenville or Spartanburg, but it varies by type of care. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay an average of $130 to $180 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. In-home family daycare providers may range from $100 to $150 per week. These are estimates, and prices can be higher for centers with specialized curricula or extended hours. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate (e.g., meals, diapers, formula) and if there are any registration or supply fees.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with daycare costs for families in Duncan?
Yes, eligible families in Duncan can apply for the South Carolina Voucher Program, administered by the SCDSS Division of Early Care and Education. This program provides financial assistance for childcare to low-income families who are working, attending school, or in job training. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. You can apply online through the SC Thrive portal or contact the Spartanburg County DSS office, which serves the Duncan area, for application assistance. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Duncan, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlist times in Duncan can vary significantly. For popular centers and especially for infant rooms (which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios), waitlists of 3 to 9 months are not uncommon. To improve your chances, start your search early—ideally during pregnancy if possible. Contact multiple centers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee, which is common. Follow up politely every few months to confirm your spot. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family home daycares in nearby communities like Lyman, Wellford, or Spartanburg, as they may have more immediate availability.
What are some key questions to ask during a tour of a daycare in Duncan, specifically regarding safety and local preparedness?
Beyond general curriculum questions, focus on local and state-specific safety protocols. Key questions include: "What is your severe weather and lockdown procedure, especially given our area's risk for thunderstorms and tornadoes?" "How do you manage pick-up and drop-off to ensure only authorized individuals enter?" "What is your staff's training in Pediatric First Aid/CPR, and is it updated per SC regulations?" "What is your sick child policy, and how do you handle common childhood illnesses to prevent outbreaks?" Also, ask about outdoor play safety, sunscreen application policies for South Carolina's sunny climate, and how they communicate with parents about daily activities and incidents. Observing the cleanliness and security of the facility during your tour is crucial.