The Best Preschools in Durham, NH
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Durham. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Dover
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Dover is a highly-rated early learning center located just minutes from Durham, serving families in the area with a play-based and academic-focused curriculum. It emphasizes safety with secure facilities and background-checked teachers, and offers a STEAM-inspired program that promotes literacy, math, and social-emotional development. Parent satisfaction is high due to its structured daily activities, low student-to-teacher ratios, and regular communication through a dedicated app. The school is licensed by the state of New Hampshire and has a strong reputation for preparing children for kindergarten.
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KinderCare Learning Center at Dover
KinderCare Education
This KinderCare center in Dover provides reliable early education services to Durham families, featuring a nationally-recognized curriculum that focuses on phonics, math, and social skills. It maintains high safety standards with keypad entry and trained staff, and offers flexible scheduling to accommodate working parents. Teachers are qualified with early childhood credentials, and the center receives positive reviews for its engaging learning environment and supportive community. Established over a decade ago, it has built a track record of fostering child development through hands-on activities and individualized attention.
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Bright Horizons at Pease International Tradeport
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Pease International Tradeport is a top-tier early learning center serving the Durham area with a research-based curriculum that emphasizes literacy, science, and creative arts. It boasts excellent safety records, including secure facilities and health protocols, and employs degreed teachers with expertise in early childhood education. Parents praise its nurturing environment and strong parent-teacher partnerships, supported by a curriculum aligned with NAEYC standards. Founded in 2009, it has consistently high ratings for its comprehensive approach to child development and convenient location near major routes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Durham, NH:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Durham, NH, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Durham, NH, preschool tuition can range from approximately $800 to $1,500+ per month, depending on the program's schedule, philosophy, and whether it's affiliated with the University of New Hampshire (UNH). For financial assistance, you can explore the New Hampshire Child Care Scholarship Program, and some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's also worth checking if you qualify for support through UNH's employee benefits if you are affiliated with the university.
How can I assess the quality and licensing of preschools in Durham?
All licensed preschools in New Hampshire are regulated by the Department of Health and Human Services, Child Care Licensing Unit. You can verify a program's license status and review any compliance reports online. Additionally, look for programs accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) or those participating in New Hampshire's Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS), known as "Spark NH," which indicates a commitment to higher standards.
What are the enrollment timelines and waitlist situations like for Durham preschools?
Enrollment timelines in Durham are critical, especially for popular programs affiliated with UNH or highly-rated community centers. Many schools begin their application process in January or February for the following fall semester, and waitlists are common. It is highly recommended to start your research and schedule tours at least a year in advance to secure a spot for your child.
Are there preschools in Durham that offer unique educational approaches or specialized programs?
Yes, Durham offers a variety of approaches, including play-based, Montessori, Reggio Emilia-inspired, and nature-based programs. The UNH Child Study and Development Center is a renowned lab school offering a Reggio-inspired curriculum. Additionally, the proximity to the university and the Great Bay area allows some programs to incorporate strong environmental science and outdoor learning components into their daily activities.
How do preschools in Durham handle safety, particularly given the town's mix of rural and university settings?
Preschools in Durham adhere to strict state licensing standards for safety, including staff background checks, secure building access, and emergency preparedness plans. Specific to the locale, many programs have protocols for the high pedestrian and vehicle traffic near UNH campus and downtown. It's important to ask about pick-up/drop-off procedures, outdoor play area security, and their communication plan for emergencies or campus alerts.
Nearby Cities
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