The Best Preschools in New Bern, NC
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in New Bern. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of New Bern
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in New Bern is a highly-rated early childhood education center offering play-based learning with F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum. The facility features modern classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor play areas. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes STEAM learning, social-emotional development, and school readiness skills through structured play and hands-on activities.
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Children's Campus of New Bern
Children's Campus Learning Centers
Children's Campus of New Bern is a well-established early learning center serving children from infancy through school age. The center follows Creative Curriculum with focus on developmental milestones and kindergarten readiness. Features include secure facilities, age-appropriate playgrounds, and experienced teaching staff with low student-teacher ratios. The program emphasizes literacy development, social skills, and hands-on learning experiences in a nurturing environment.
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Primrose School of Havelock
Primrose Schools
Located in nearby Havelock (serving the greater New Bern area), Primrose School offers the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach combining purposeful play with nurturing guidance. The school features state-of-the-art security systems, dedicated art and music rooms, and extensive outdoor learning environments. Curriculum focuses on character development, literacy, mathematics, and science while maintaining small class sizes with degreed teachers. Serves many military families from nearby Cherry Point.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in New Bern, NC:
What is the average cost of preschool in New Bern, NC, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In New Bern, tuition for full-time preschool programs typically ranges from $600 to $900 per month. Financial assistance is available through the North Carolina Pre-Kindergarten (NC Pre-K) program for eligible 4-year-olds, and many local centers also offer sliding scale fees or accept state childcare subsidy vouchers. It's best to contact individual preschools directly to inquire about their specific tuition and aid options.
How can I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in New Bern?
All licensed childcare facilities in New Bern are regulated by the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE). You can search for a preschool's license status, view inspection reports, and check its star rating (a 1 to 5-star quality scale) on the NC DHHS Child Care Search website. This is a crucial first step in evaluating any program's compliance and quality standards.
What are the typical enrollment timelines and waitlist situations for New Bern preschools?
Many popular preschools in New Bern, especially those affiliated with churches or highly-rated centers, begin their enrollment processes in January or February for the following fall semester. It's common for these programs to have waitlists, so initiating inquiries and tours 6-12 months in advance is highly recommended. Some programs may offer rolling admission if space allows.
What types of preschool programs are most common in New Bern?
New Bern offers a mix of church-affiliated preschools, private standalone centers, Montessori programs, and public NC Pre-K classrooms located within elementary schools or partner sites. Many programs in the area incorporate the rich local history and coastal environment into their curricula. You'll also find options with varying schedules, from half-day to full-day care.
Are there specific considerations for preschools in New Bern related to weather or location?
Yes, given New Bern's coastal location, it's wise to ask about a preschool's emergency plans for hurricanes and severe flooding, including evacuation procedures and communication protocols. For location, consider proximity to major routes like US-70 or US-17, as traffic during pickup/dropoff times can be a factor, especially near downtown or the Twin Rivers area.
Nearby Cities
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