The Best Preschools in Camp Lejeune, NC
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Camp Lejeune. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Jacksonville
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Jacksonville serves military families from Camp Lejeune with a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic preparation with social-emotional development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, and creative arts, with highly qualified teachers who receive ongoing professional development. The school maintains excellent safety protocols and has strong parent communication systems.
Programs Offered:
Primrose School of Jacksonville
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Jacksonville provides balanced learning through their exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum, combining purposeful play with nurturing guidance. The school serves many military families from Camp Lejeune and emphasizes character development alongside academic readiness. Features include secure facilities, nutritionally balanced meals, and age-appropriate learning environments. Their approach focuses on developing independence, problem-solving skills, and social competence through hands-on experiences and structured activities.
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The Learning Experience - Jacksonville
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Jacksonville offers their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum with a focus on early literacy, mathematics, and social skills. The center serves numerous military families from Camp Lejeune and provides flexible scheduling options. Their programs include phonics, foreign language introduction, and manners/values curriculum. The facility features modern security systems, dedicated play areas, and classrooms designed specifically for early childhood education with highly trained teaching staff.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Camp Lejeune, NC:
What are the typical costs for preschool in Camp Lejeune, and are there military-specific financial assistance programs?
Monthly tuition in the Camp Lejeune area typically ranges from $800 to $1,200, though on-base Child Development Centers (CDCs) use a sliding fee scale based on Total Family Income (TFI). Military families should first explore the Child Care Fee Assistance program, which can significantly reduce costs for off-base care, and prioritize getting on the waitlist for on-base CDCs, which are often the most affordable and convenient option.
How does the high military turnover in Camp Lejeune impact preschool enrollment and availability?
The frequent PCS (Permanent Change of Station) cycles create constant movement on preschool waitlists, so a "full" program may have openings sooner than expected. It's crucial to get on multiple waitlists—both on and off base—as soon as you receive orders. Many local preschools are accustomed to mid-year enrollments and withdrawals, making them flexible for military families.
What should I look for in a preschool to ensure it understands the needs of military children?
Look for preschools that explicitly welcome military families and have experience with deployments, separations, and the challenges of moving. Key indicators include staff trained in emotional support for young children, a willingness to incorporate a deployed parent into classroom activities (e.g., through photos or video calls), and flexibility with enrollment paperwork from out-of-state.
Are there state-licensed preschools near Camp Lejeune, and how can I verify their quality and safety?
Yes, all licensed preschools in North Carolina, including those in Jacksonville and the Camp Lejeune area, are regulated by the NC Division of Child Development and Early Education. You can verify a program's license, view its star rating (1-5 stars), and read any past inspection reports online through the NC Child Care Search portal to assess quality and compliance with state safety standards.
What are the main options for preschool care specific to Camp Lejeune, and how do I access them?
The primary options are the on-base Child Development Centers (CDCs), which require registration through MilitaryChildCare.com, and off-base community preschools in Jacksonville. Additionally, the Camp Lejeune School Age Care program sometimes offers pre-K options, and family child care homes (FCC) on base provide a smaller, home-like setting. Starting your search on MilitaryChildCare.com is the official first step for base-affiliated care.
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