Best Child Care Centers in Wilmington, NC
Ivybrook Academy provides a hybrid curriculum that takes an innovative approach to early learning while also drawing from three different educational approaches: Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and the...
3-Year-Olds
At Ivybrook Academy, we celebrate the natural curiosity and energy of three-year-olds by providing an environment that fosters exploration, creativity, and foundational learning. Our half-day program is thoughtfully crafted to balance academic growth with imaginative play, empowering your child to build confidence and develop critical skills during this transformative stage of early childhood.
4 & 5 Year-Olds
At Ivybrook Academy, we understand the exciting growth and readiness of four and five-year-olds as they prepare for the next steps in their educational journey. Our half-day Pre-kindergarten and Transitional Kindergarten programs are thoughtfully designed to challenge, inspire, and prepare young learners through a balanced approach of academic exploration and creative play.
Also offers: 2-Year-Olds
Responds quickly
This is where achievement starts early. At The Children’s Courtyard, we provide high-quality child care and early education. Here, purposeful and playful learning leads to a child who thinks...
Infants
Families love the balance of nurturing care and milestone development in this program. In a warm, safe, stimulating classroom, children have a primary caregiver to attend to their needs. Plus, our exclusive, milestone-focused curriculum, Learn from the Start™, was developed by our educational experts to focus on key developmental milestones specific to infants. We emphasize each child’s development, rather than specific age, because all children grow and learn at their own pace, and in their own unique way. We’re also here when you need us. Ask your school about flexible enrollment options to fit your family’s schedule.
Toddlers
You’ll love the safe environment for exploration, excitement, and exercise we provide for your active child. Toddler classrooms also feature our milestone-focused curriculum, Learn from the Start™, focused on the key developmental milestones specific to this age group, with learning experiences designed to address the individual needs of each child, in each classroom. We’re also here when you need us. Ask your school about flexible enrollment options to fit your family’s schedule.
Also offers: Twos, Drop-In Care, Preschool, and more
Responds quickly
Site providing childcare and early learning programs for children of all ages. Curiosity, exploration, and discovery are encouraged for social, emotional, and cognitive development. Hands-on...
Infants
Offering a strong start for babies, our ELC caregivers provide comfort, predictability and a nurturing environment. Babies develop their own schedules, so we make sure to follow their leads so they’re relaxed, supported, and engaged for these earliest days of learning. Prices are subject to change.
Toddlers
Full of energy and curiosity, our toddlers learn through everyday routines. The beginnings of independence, friendships, and skills-building are on full display, so our educators focus such inquisitiveness toward learning early language, math, science and other key building blocks. Prices are subject to change.
Also offers: Elementary Care, Junior Kindergarten, Preschool
Responds quickly
Site providing childcare and early learning programs for children of all ages. Curiosity, exploration, and discovery are encouraged for social, emotional, and cognitive development. Hands-on...
Infants
Offering a strong start for babies, our ELC caregivers provide comfort, predictability and a nurturing environment. Babies develop their own schedules, so we make sure to follow their leads so they’re relaxed, supported, and engaged for these earliest days of learning. Prices are subject to change.
Toddlers
Full of energy and curiosity, our toddlers learn through everyday routines. The beginnings of independence, friendships, and skills-building are on full display, so our educators focus such inquisitiveness toward learning early language, math, science and other key building blocks. Prices are subject to change.
Also offers: Junior Kindergarten, Preschool, Elementary Care
Responds quickly
Primrose School of North Wilmington is a private preschool offering Balanced Learning® early education and child care, conveniently located on Market Street near Porters Neck Center and Ogden Park....
Infant Program
At this age, your infant is mainly learning through observation and exploration. For example, as our Infant teachers talk and sing with your child during feeding, diaper changes and playtime, your little one is beginning to understand language and conversation. Nurturing interactions like these will fill your child’s day and can be adapted and personalized to meet their individual needs.
Toddler Program
In our Toddler program, you’ll find carefully selected equipment that our newest walkers love to climb on, crawl through and hide in while stretching their gross motor skills. Teachers also use books, toys, games and other materials to create exciting explorations into colors, shapes, science and more.
Also offers: Toddler Program, Preschool Pathways, Pre-Kindergarten, and more
Responds quickly
Primrose School of Wilmington at Medical Center is a private preschool offering Balanced Learning® early education and child care, conveniently located on S 16th Street near Cape Fear Country Club and...
Infant Program
At this age, your infant is mainly learning through observation and exploration. For example, as our Infant teachers talk and sing with your child during feeding, diaper changes and playtime, your little one is beginning to understand language and conversation. Nurturing interactions like these will fill your child’s day and can be adapted and personalized to meet their individual needs.
Toddler Program
In our Toddler program, you’ll find carefully selected equipment that our newest walkers love to climb on, crawl through and hide in while stretching their gross motor skills. Teachers also use books, toys, games and other materials to create exciting explorations into colors, shapes, science and more.
Also offers: Preschool Pathways, Preschool, Early Preschool, and more
Responds quickly
We provide children from infancy to school age with a safe, fun environment to learn and grow. With over 230 schools across 10 states, children are encouraged and guided in order to thrive. Our...
Bright Babies Infant Program
We give your baby the love and attention they deserve through interactive experiences developing mind and body alike. The curriculum includes one-on-one activities like sign-language, puppets, music, books and even yoga.
Smart Steps Toddler Program
We channel the natural curiosity of toddlers into a higher level of understanding through experiences with blocks, music, creative play and more - all promoting positive social interaction and language acquisition!
Also offers: Ready-2-Learn Two-Year-Old Program, NC Free Pre-K, Kindergarten Prep Academy: Pre-K, and more
Responds quickly
We provide children from infancy to school age with a safe, fun environment to learn and grow. With over 230 schools across 10 states, children are encouraged and guided in order to thrive. Our...
Bright Babies Infant Program
We give your baby the love and attention they deserve through interactive experiences developing mind and body alike. The curriculum includes one-on-one activities like sign-language, puppets, music, books and even yoga.
Smart Steps Toddler Program
We channel the natural curiosity of toddlers into a higher level of understanding through experiences with blocks, music, creative play and more - all promoting positive social interaction and language acquisition!
Responds quickly
Palmetto Preschool is a community-focused early learning program where children are encouraged to explore, build confidence, and develop a love of learning. We believe every family deserves access to...
Infants
Infants at Palmetto Preschool thrive with our relationship-based care approach. Our staff of dedicated professionals spend time developing a partnership with families, and each infant is assigned a primary care-giver who follows their daily routine and development.
Toddlers
In the Toddler program, our toddlers experience the love and support needed for secure attachments and an environment designed for exploring, growing, and learning. Teachers share enjoyment as each toddler learns new things or tries a new activity, building the foundation for lifelong learning.
Also offers: Early Learners (2-3 Years Old), Afterschool, NC Pre-K, and more
Responds quickly
At Palmetto Preschool, we believe early education should be accessible and rooted in the community. Our schools provide nurturing, high-quality early learning while actively partnering with local...
Infants
Our Infant Program provides a warm, nurturing environment where babies grow through responsive care, sensory play, music, and language-rich interaction. Our teachers partner with families to support each child’s unique routine while building the trust and foundation needed for healthy development.
Early Learners (2-3 Years Old)
Palmetto Preschool’s Early Learners program encourages curiosity and independence through hands-on play, language development, and social learning. Teachers guide children as they explore, build friendships, and strengthen the skills that prepare them for preschool success.
Also offers: Toddlers, Pre-K Program (4-5 years old), Young Preschool (3-4 years old), and more
Responds quickly
At The Kiddie Cottage, our mission is to create a stimulating and nurturing environment where children of all abilities, regardless of socio-economic or cultural background, can grow and learn...
Child Care Center Program
Toddler Care Program
Also offers: Daycare Program, School Age Care Program
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
We offer flexible childcare including drop-in care, preschool, an afterschool program, a summer camp program, and a preschool summer camp.
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Center provides childcare services to toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged children. Age-appropriate books, toys, and furniture provided. Children have access to an outdoor play area with toys,...
Speaks Spanish
We provide children from infancy to school age with a safe, fun environment to learn and grow. With over 230 schools across 10 states, children are encouraged and guided in order to thrive. Our...
Bright Babies Infant Program
We give your baby the love and attention they deserve through interactive experiences developing mind and body alike. The curriculum includes one-on-one activities like sign-language, puppets, music, books and even yoga.
Smart Steps Toddler Program
We channel the natural curiosity of toddlers into a higher level of understanding through experiences with blocks, music, creative play and more - all promoting positive social interaction and language acquisition!
Also offers: Ready-2-Learn Two-Year-Old Program, Kindergarten Prep Academy: Pre-K, NC Free Pre-K, and more
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
We provide children from infancy to school age with a safe, fun environment to learn and grow. With over 230 schools across 10 states, children are encouraged and guided in order to thrive. Our...
Bright Babies Infant Program
We give your baby the love and attention they deserve through interactive experiences developing mind and body alike. The curriculum includes one-on-one activities like sign-language, puppets, music, books and even yoga.
Ready-2-Learn Two-Year-Old Program
Our curriculum for children in the toddlers and twos class fosters the critical relationship building that occurs at this age, supporting intellectual and social development. Teachers emphasize daily routines and social interaction through family-style meals and other small group activities.
Also offers: Smart Steps Toddler Program, Pre-Kindergarten Prep Academy: Preschool, NC Free Pre-K, and more
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
We provide children from infancy to school age with a safe, fun environment to learn and grow. With over 230 schools across 10 states, children are encouraged and guided in order to thrive. Our...
Bright Babies Infant Program
We give your baby the love and attention they deserve through interactive experiences developing mind and body alike. The curriculum includes one-on-one activities like sign-language, puppets, music, books and even yoga.
Ready-2-Learn Two-Year-Old Program
Our curriculum for children in the toddlers and twos class fosters the critical relationship building that occurs at this age, supporting intellectual and social development. Teachers emphasize daily routines and social interaction through family-style meals and other small group activities.
Also offers: Smart Steps Toddler Program, NC Free Pre-K, Pre-Kindergarten Prep Academy: Preschool, and more
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
We provide children from infancy to school age with a safe, fun environment to learn and grow. With over 230 schools across 10 states, children are encouraged and guided in order to thrive. Our...
Bright Babies Infant Program
We give your baby the love and attention they deserve through interactive experiences developing mind and body alike. The curriculum includes one-on-one activities like sign-language, puppets, music, books and even yoga.
Ready-2-Learn Two-Year-Old Program
Our curriculum for children in the toddlers and twos class fosters the critical relationship building that occurs at this age, supporting intellectual and social development. Teachers emphasize daily routines and social interaction through family-style meals and other small group activities.
Also offers: Smart Steps Toddler Program, Young Achievers: School-Age Program, NC Free Pre-K, and more
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
At our 5-Star center, Quality Childcare Northchase's mission is to provide a safe, nurturing, and joyful environment where every child feels loved, valued, and supported. We are dedicated to fostering...
Speaks Spanish
Welcome to Foundations of Wilmington at Carolina Beach! | Opening Summer 2026! At Foundations of Carolina Beach, our daycare & preschool programs give your child a strong educational and social...
Infants
Your baby’s brain is developing at an amazing rate, so our infant nursery is all about brain development. In our infant program, we teach tummy time for social bonding and physical development and baby sign language to help your child communicate their needs. Your primary caregiver will help your baby progress through important developmental milestones while working closely with you to provide consistency with feeding, playing and sleeping schedules.
Toddlers
From first steps to first friendships, our toddler childcare program nurtures your whole child—body, mind, and spirit—creating a joyful learning experience filled with exploration, play, and new discoveries. At this exciting stage, toddlers are full of curiosity, energy, and enthusiasm. Our program is designed to embrace this natural love of learning through fun, hands-on activities that introduce structure and routine while keeping the day engaging and playful!
Also offers: School Age, Step-Up Early Preschool, Preschool, and more
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Lil Explorers was established in 1995 by owner Melissa Humphrey. Educated in child development. We are privileged to help children learn and explore our world to grow through all stages of...
Speaks Spanish
Childcare center promoting learning through play for infants through Pre-Kindergartners. Preschool classrooms utilize the Creative Curriculum to focus on literacy and language arts development, math...
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Childcare facility offering programs and services for children of all ages. Teachers provide a variety of hands-on learning activities that work on each child's physical, social, emotional and...
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Program providing care and educational services to young children in the area. Curriculum focuses on social/emotional, physical, cognitive, and language development. Activities include arts and...
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Program offers childcare and early learning services for young children. Curriculum includes reading, writing, math and science lessons in preparation for Pre-K and beyond. Active learning and...
Infant Care
Our Infant Care Program is committed to making the first transition away from home natural and easy for both you and your child.
Toddler Program
Our Toddler Program is specifically tailored to the needs of your busy toddler. We lovingly nurture your child through important early milestones, from “self-help” learning skills such as hand washing and putting away their toys, to socializing and forming first friendships.
Also offers: Flexible Care, Pre-Kindergarten, Preschool, and more
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Preschool and childcare center supporting educational play for infants through school-age children. Classrooms and teachers facilitate child-led learning experiences in language and literacy, math,...
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Center-based facility providing hands-on learning activities for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Curriculum focuses on social, mental, and emotional growth through play-based activities, social...
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
After school program serving children at the YWCA Main Campus. Children participate in a variety of educational and recreational activities, including swimming and access to a 3 acre playground. ...
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Preschool and childcare program centered around Christian values and education. Teachers provide a variety of educational and recreational activities to help prepare children for school. Children...
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Childcare facility offering programs and services for infants through school-aged children. Curriculum includes a variety of activities that work on each child's physical, social, emotional and...
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Faith-based early learning program serving toddlers, preschool, and school-age children. Social, emotional, spiritual, and cognitive development is fostered through a balance of child-initiated and...
Speaks Spanish
Faith-based school providing care and educational experiences to young children. Curriculum is Christ-centric and focuses on developing social, mental, and spiritual growth and development. Activities...
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Faith-based preschool providing services to children and families in Wilmington. Program encourages learning through play. Activities include reading, math, science projects, arts & crafts, music,...
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Childcare facility offering programs and services for children of all ages. Children participate in a variety of activities that work on cognitive, communication, emotional, fine motor, gross motor...
Infant Care - New Beginnings
Our infant daycare and child care program supports early development through sensory learning. Babies explore sights, sounds, and textures in a nurturing daycare setting. This preschool foundation helps your child grow, adapt, and build awareness of their environment.
Toddler Care - Discovering Me
Our Discovering Me program is developed through our Life Essentials® curriculum to grow and reinforce each toddler’s individual needs. Our educators form strong, caring relationships with your toddler and guide them through sensory-based learning experiences that encourage discovery.
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
This is where achievement starts early. At The Children’s Courtyard, we provide high-quality child care and early education. Here, purposeful and playful learning leads to a child who thinks...
Infants
Families love the balance of nurturing care and milestone development in this program. In a warm, safe, stimulating classroom, children have a primary caregiver to attend to their needs. Plus, our exclusive, milestone-focused curriculum, Learn from the Start™, was developed by our educational experts to focus on key developmental milestones specific to infants. We emphasize each child’s development, rather than specific age, because all children grow and learn at their own pace, and in their own unique way. We’re also here when you need us. Ask your school about flexible enrollment options to fit your family’s schedule.
Toddlers
You’ll love the safe environment for exploration, excitement, and exercise we provide for your active child. Toddler classrooms also feature our milestone-focused curriculum, Learn from the Start™, focused on the key developmental milestones specific to this age group, with learning experiences designed to address the individual needs of each child, in each classroom. We’re also here when you need us. Ask your school about flexible enrollment options to fit your family’s schedule.
Also offers: Twos, Drop-In Care, Preschool, and more
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Welcome to Foundations of Riverlights! At Foundations of Riverlights, our daycare & preschool programs give your child a strong educational and social foundation. We focus on school readiness,...
Infants
Your baby’s brain is developing at an amazing rate, so our infant nursery is all about brain development. In our infant program, we teach tummy time for social bonding and physical development and baby sign language to help your child communicate their needs. Your primary caregiver will help your baby progress through important developmental milestones while working closely with you to provide consistency with feeding, playing and sleeping schedules.
Toddlers
From first steps to first friendships, our toddler childcare program nurtures your whole child—body, mind, and spirit—creating a joyful learning experience filled with exploration, play, and new discoveries. At this exciting stage, toddlers are full of curiosity, energy, and enthusiasm. Our program is designed to embrace this natural love of learning through fun, hands-on activities that introduce structure and routine while keeping the day engaging and playful!
Also offers: Pre-K, School Age, Step-Up Early Preschool, and more
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Welcome to our exceptional childcare center in Wilmington, North Carolina, where we provide top-notch care for children ranging from infants to school-age. At Children’s Cottage of Wilmington, your...
Infant Program
Our infant program provides a safe, nurturing environment where babies can grow at their own pace. With personalized care, we follow your baby’s routine and offer engaging activities like sensory play to support physical, cognitive, and emotional development. Parents stay connected with regular updates, ensuring peace of mind while their child explores and thrives in our care.
Toddler Program
Our toddler program offers a lively and nurturing environment where your child can explore, create, and learn through hands-on activities. Toddlers engage in sensory play, build language skills during circle time, and express themselves through art, all while developing important social skills like empathy and cooperation. With plenty of opportunities for creative exploration, problem-solving, and group play, your child will build confidence and friendships in a fun, loving atmosphere.
Also offers: Twos Program, School Age Care, Preschool, and more
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
By providing a setting which fosters self-esteem, builds confidence and is based on respect, it is our goal that the children will be empowered to take risks in their learning. Developing a profound...
Twos Program
Our toddler program offers a lively and nurturing environment where your child can explore, create, and learn through hands-on activities. Toddlers engage in sensory play, build language skills during circle time, and express themselves through art, all while developing important social skills like empathy and cooperation. With plenty of opportunities for creative exploration, problem-solving, and group play, your child will build confidence and friendships in a fun, loving atmosphere.
Preschool
Our preschool program sparks curiosity and confidence through joyful, hands-on learning. Each week, our teachers design engaging lesson plans that inspire children to explore the world around them, whether through a nature project in the garden or a fun science experiment. With a child-centered approach, we support the development of key academic skills like math, science, reading, and writing, all while fostering social and emotional growth through play. Preschoolers build friendships, solve problems, and develop independence in a secure, nurturing environment.
Also offers: School Age Care, Pre-Kindergarten
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Childcare provider meeting each child's individual need a through an atmosphere that encourages children to grow socially, emotionally, cognitively as well as creatively.
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Childcare facility offering programs and services for children of all ages. Children participate in a variety of activities that work on cognitive, communication, emotional, fine motor, gross motor...
Infant Care - New Beginnings
Our infant daycare and child care program supports early development through sensory learning. Babies explore sights, sounds, and textures in a nurturing daycare setting. This preschool foundation helps your child grow, adapt, and build awareness of their environment.
Toddler Care - Discovering Me
Our Discovering Me program is developed through our Life Essentials® curriculum to grow and reinforce each toddler’s individual needs. Our educators form strong, caring relationships with your toddler and guide them through sensory-based learning experiences that encourage discovery.
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Preschool and childcare program serving children of all ages. Teachers provide developmentally-appropriate activities focused on preparing children for school, both socially and academically. ...
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Center provides childcare services to toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged children. Age-appropriate books, toys, and furniture provided. Daily activities include reading, art, and free play....
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Center provides childcare services to children from infancy to school-age. Reggio Emilia-based curriculum encourages individuality and creativity. Age-appropriate books, toys, nature equipment, and...
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Pre-Kindergarten program supporting social, emotional, academic, and physical development. Age-appropriate activities include literacy, math, and language concepts. Teacher-directed lessons focus on...
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Religious center provides childcare services to children from infancy to school-age. Age-appropriate books, toys, and furniture provided. Daily activities include art, watching movies, science,...
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Childcare facility offering a variety of programs and services for children of all ages. Teachers provide a variety of hands-on learning experiences to help prepare children for school. Daily...
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Preschool and childcare program centered around Christian values and education. Teachers provide a variety of activities that work on each child's physical, social, emotional and cognitive...
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Childcare facility offering a variety of programs and services for children of all ages. Teachers provide a variety of hands-on learning experiences to help prepare children for school. Daily...
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Daycare providing services to infants, toddlers, preschool, and school-age children in Wilmington. Center offers a variety of toys, books, and games for play-based learning. Activities include...
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Childcare facility offering a variety of programs and services for children of all ages. Teachers provide a variety of hands-on learning experiences to help prepare children for school. Daily...
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
Religious program provides after school childcare services to school-aged children. Children participate in field trips throughout the year.
Contact this provider for pricing and availability
- 1
- 2
Guides
-
The Cost of Childcare in North Carolina: A Comprehensive Guide
Curious how much daycare or preschool really costs in North Carolina? We break down average childcare rates by city, age, and program type—based on real data from local providers.
-
How to Find and Apply for Childcare Assistance in North Carolina
Explore financial assistance programs available in North Carolina, including childcare subsidies, tax credits, and free preschool options for eligible families.