The Best Preschools in Cherry Point, NC
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Cherry Point. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Havelock
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Havelock is a highly-rated preschool located just minutes from Cherry Point Marine Corps Air Station. They offer a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. The facility features modern classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor play areas. Their curriculum includes STEAM learning, language development, and social skills, with certified teachers providing individualized attention. The school is particularly popular with military families from Cherry Point and maintains strong safety protocols.
Programs Offered:
Kiddie Academy of Havelock
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Havelock provides educational child care services with a structured curriculum that prepares children for kindergarten and beyond. Their Life Essentials® program focuses on character development, literacy, mathematics, and science. The academy serves many military families from Cherry Point and offers flexible scheduling to accommodate various needs. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, secure environments, and dedicated play areas. The staff includes qualified early childhood educators with background checks and ongoing training.
Programs Offered:
First Baptist Church Preschool
First Baptist Church of Havelock
First Baptist Church Preschool has been serving the Havelock and Cherry Point community for over 25 years with a strong reputation for quality early childhood education. The preschool offers a balanced curriculum that includes academic readiness, social development, and Christian values. Their experienced teachers create a nurturing environment with small class sizes and individualized attention. The program focuses on kindergarten readiness skills while incorporating play-based learning. Many military families from Cherry Point choose this preschool for its stability, experienced staff, and community-oriented approach.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Cherry Point, NC:
What are the typical costs for preschool in Cherry Point, NC, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Cherry Point and the surrounding Havelock area, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $500 to $900, with many centers offering part-time options at a lower rate. Given the large military community at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Cherry Point, families should inquire about fee reductions for military personnel and explore the Child Care Aware subsidy program, which can help offset costs for eligible service members and Department of Defense employees.
How can I assess the quality and safety of a preschool near MCAS Cherry Point?
First, verify the preschool is licensed by the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education, which sets health, safety, and staff qualification standards. You can view inspection reports online. Additionally, ask about staff-to-child ratios, secure facility access protocols (especially relevant near a base), and their emergency procedures for events like base lockdowns or severe weather common to the coastal NC region.
What types of preschool programs are most common in the Cherry Point area, and how do I choose?
You'll find a mix of faith-based preschools, nationally accredited chains, home-based family child care, and the on-base Child Development Center (CDC) at MCAS Cherry Point. Your choice may depend on your schedule; the base CDC often offers full-day, year-round care to support military families' demanding hours, while many community programs follow a traditional school-year, half-day calendar.
When should I start looking and applying for preschools in this area, as a military family facing potential moves?
Due to high demand, especially for the on-base CDC, you should begin your search at least 6-12 months before your desired start date. If you are on active duty, get on the CDC waitlist as soon as you have orders to MCAS Cherry Point. Many local community preschools also have waitlists, so early inquiry is key, and be sure to ask about their policies for transferring or withdrawing with a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) order.
Are there preschools in Cherry Point that offer flexible hours for parents with non-traditional or shift work schedules?
Yes, the Child Development Center on MCAS Cherry Point is specifically designed to accommodate the irregular and extended hours of military personnel, offering care from early morning to early evening. Some off-base providers in Havelock may also offer extended hours or drop-in care. It's essential to explicitly ask about early drop-off, late pick-up, and whether they can accommodate rotating schedules when you tour.
Nearby Cities
Explore preschools in cities near Cherry Point:
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across North Carolina or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.