Children at daycare

64 Daycare Centers in Wilmington, North Carolina

Browse all 64 daycare centers in Wilmington, North Carolina. Compare options and find the right childcare for your family.

Top 10 Best Rated Daycares in Wilmington

Ranked using a weighted score that combines Google rating with the number of parent reviews — daycares with more reviews rank higher than those with a high rating but few reviews. Last updated: March 2026.

  1. 1
    Cadence Academy Preschool
    4.72 score
    4.9(20)

    7131 Market Street, Wilmington, NC · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: -999 children

    Parents consistently praise Cadence Academy/Gateway Academy for exceptional care, safety, and child development. Staff members, particularly leadership (Monica and Jessica/Danielle), are commended for going above and beyond and treating families with genuine compassion. Children show marked improvements in confidence, social skills, and academic readiness.

    Safety and cleanliness standardsorganized activities and curriculumstaff dedication and compassionstrong communication with parents
  2. 2

    3830 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, NC · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: -999 children

    Wilmington Preschool of the Arts receives consistently excellent feedback from parents, with all reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents praise the caring, patient staff, strong curriculum emphasizing arts and creativity, and safe, nurturing environment where children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

    Compassionate and patient teacherscaring director (Ms. Missy)safe environmentarts-focused curriculum
  3. 3

    3802 Princess Place Drive, Wilmington, NC · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: -999 children

    Child Development Center in Wilmington, NC receives unanimous 5-star ratings from parents who praise the caring staff and quality care provided. Parents report the facility significantly reduced their stress and created a positive, nurturing environment for their children. Several reviewers note lasting friendships formed and positive long-term impacts on their children.

    Caring and wonderful staffstress relief for parentspositive early childhood experienceslasting friendships formed
  4. 4

    3910 Princess Place Drive, Wilmington, NC · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: -999 children

    Training Up A Child Enrichment Center receives consistently high praise from parents and former students. Reviews highlight exceptional staff care, positive long-term impacts on children, and a supportive environment for families. Former attendees report lasting friendships and fond memories of their experience.

    Caring and wonderful staffstress relief for parentspositive child developmentlasting friendships formed
  5. 5
    The Learning Center
    4.59 score
    4.8(14)

    2310 Scientific Park Drive, Wilmington, NC · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: -999 children

    The Learning Center in Wilmington, NC receives consistently high praise from parents, with all reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents highlight excellent staff, strong early education, and a nurturing environment where children thrive and enjoy attending. Multiple parents note clear communication, caring teachers, and noticeable developmental progress.

    Enthusiastic and caring staffsmall class ratiosexcellent early education programskilled classroom management
  6. 6

    6743 Amsterdam Way, Wilmington, NC · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: -999 children

    Rising Stars of Wilmington receives consistently high praise from parents who highlight the caring, friendly staff and family-oriented environment. Parents appreciate the center's detailed planning of activities, effective communication, and the genuine relationships staff members build with children and families. The facility is noted for being clean and well-managed.

    Staff friendliness and carefamily-oriented environmentdetailed activity planningeffective communication
  7. 7

    1401 S College Road, Wilmington, NC · Church Daycare · Capacity: -999 children

    Reviews praise the facility's friendly and welcoming staff, community atmosphere, and well-organized seasonal events like their pumpkin patch. Parents appreciate the welcoming environment for both regular attendees and visitors. The facility is noted for its community involvement and pleasant physical space.

    Friendly and helpful staffwelcoming atmospherestrong sense of communitywell-organized seasonal activities
  8. 8
    Carr'S Academy
    4.5 score
    5(5)

    4102 Peachtree Avenue, Wilmington, NC · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: -999 children

    Parents consistently praise CARR'S Academy (Learning Bridge) for its caring, passionate staff and warm, positive environment. Families report their children thrive academically and socially, with strong friendships formed and new skills developed. The facility is noted for cleanliness, engaging curriculum, and excellent communication with parents.

    Dedicated and passionate teacherswarm and positive environmentexceptional classroom facilitieshigh cleanliness standards
  9. 9

    4700 Wrightsville Avenue, Wilmington, NC · Church Daycare · Capacity: -999 children

    Winter Park Baptist Preschool & Kindergarten receives consistently positive feedback from parents. Reviews highlight excellent communication, caring staff, and a welcoming environment where children quickly adapt and thrive. Parents praise the director and teachers by name and note the program works well for families of various backgrounds.

    Excellent parent communication with photo updatescaring and wonderful teacherssafe environmentsmooth transition and adjustment for shy children
  10. 10

    4126 S College Road, Wilmington, NC · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: -999 children

    Learning Bridge Development Center receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from parents, with most praising the caring staff, clean facilities, and developmental programs. Parents report their children thrive and form lasting friendships. One parent had a negative experience regarding vaccine requirements and the center's decision to unenroll their children.

    Loving and attentive teachersclean and bright facilitydaily communication and updates with parentsdevelopmental activities (music

Top Rated

Highest rated daycares in Wilmington based on parent reviews

Cadence Academy Preschool

4.9(20)

7131 Market Street, Wilmington, NC

Parents consistently praise Cadence Academy/Gateway Academy for exceptional care, safety, and child development. Staff members, particularly leadership (Monica and Jessica/Danielle), are commended for going above and beyond and treating families with genuine compassion. Children show marked improvements in confidence, social skills, and academic readiness.

Safety and cleanliness standardsorganized activities and curriculumstaff dedication and compassion

Wilmington Preschool Of The Arts

4.9(20)

3830 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, NC

Wilmington Preschool of the Arts receives consistently excellent feedback from parents, with all reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents praise the caring, patient staff, strong curriculum emphasizing arts and creativity, and safe, nurturing environment where children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Compassionate and patient teacherscaring director (Ms. Missy)safe environment

Child Development Center

5(8)

3802 Princess Place Drive, Wilmington, NC

Child Development Center in Wilmington, NC receives unanimous 5-star ratings from parents who praise the caring staff and quality care provided. Parents report the facility significantly reduced their stress and created a positive, nurturing environment for their children. Several reviewers note lasting friendships formed and positive long-term impacts on their children.

Caring and wonderful staffstress relief for parentspositive early childhood experiences

Training Up A Child Enrichment Center L.L.C.

5(8)

3910 Princess Place Drive, Wilmington, NC

Training Up A Child Enrichment Center receives consistently high praise from parents and former students. Reviews highlight exceptional staff care, positive long-term impacts on children, and a supportive environment for families. Former attendees report lasting friendships and fond memories of their experience.

Caring and wonderful staffstress relief for parentspositive child development

The Learning Center

4.8(14)

2310 Scientific Park Drive, Wilmington, NC

The Learning Center in Wilmington, NC receives consistently high praise from parents, with all reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents highlight excellent staff, strong early education, and a nurturing environment where children thrive and enjoy attending. Multiple parents note clear communication, caring teachers, and noticeable developmental progress.

Enthusiastic and caring staffsmall class ratiosexcellent early education program

Rising Stars Of Wilmington

4.8(12)

6743 Amsterdam Way, Wilmington, NC

Rising Stars of Wilmington receives consistently high praise from parents who highlight the caring, friendly staff and family-oriented environment. Parents appreciate the center's detailed planning of activities, effective communication, and the genuine relationships staff members build with children and families. The facility is noted for being clean and well-managed.

Staff friendliness and carefamily-oriented environmentdetailed activity planning

Map

Daycare Centers in Wilmington, North Carolina

There are 64 daycare centers in Wilmington, North Carolina. Below you'll find a complete directory to help you compare and choose the right daycare for your child.

When choosing a daycare in Wilmington, consider visiting facilities in person, checking their licensing status, and asking about staff-to-child ratios, daily routines, and safety policies.

All Daycare Centers in Wilmington

Showing 64 results

Carr'S Academy
Child Daycare & Preschools
5

Parents consistently praise CARR'S Academy (Learning Bridge) for its caring, passionate staff and warm, positive environment. Families report their children thrive academically and socially, with strong friendships formed and new skills developed. The facility is noted for cleanliness, engaging curriculum, and excellent communication with parents.

Dedicated and passionate teacherswarm and positive environmentexceptional classroom facilities
Address
4102 Peachtree Avenue, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 313-2575
Creative Minds Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
11207 Us Highway 17, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 686-6775
Child Development Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
5

Child Development Center in Wilmington, NC receives unanimous 5-star ratings from parents who praise the caring staff and quality care provided. Parents report the facility significantly reduced their stress and created a positive, nurturing environment for their children. Several reviewers note lasting friendships formed and positive long-term impacts on their children.

Caring and wonderful staffstress relief for parentspositive early childhood experiences
Address
3802 Princess Place Drive, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 343-4245
Grandma & Grandpa'S Day Care
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
705 South 3rd Street, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 251-1015
Easter Seals Ucp Wilmington Children'S Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
500 Military Cutoff Road, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 392-0080
Training Up A Child Enrichment Center L.L.C.
Child Daycare & Preschools
5

Training Up A Child Enrichment Center receives consistently high praise from parents and former students. Reviews highlight exceptional staff care, positive long-term impacts on children, and a supportive environment for families. Former attendees report lasting friendships and fond memories of their experience.

Caring and wonderful staffstress relief for parentspositive child development
Address
3910 Princess Place Drive, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 833-7840
Winter Park Baptist Preschool & Kindergarten
Church Daycare
5

Winter Park Baptist Preschool & Kindergarten receives consistently positive feedback from parents. Reviews highlight excellent communication, caring staff, and a welcoming environment where children quickly adapt and thrive. Parents praise the director and teachers by name and note the program works well for families of various backgrounds.

Excellent parent communication with photo updatescaring and wonderful teacherssafe environment
Address
4700 Wrightsville Avenue, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 799-2029
Children'S Learning Center II Of Wilmington
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
735 Medical Center Drive, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 251-0003
Cadence Academy Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.9

Parents consistently praise Cadence Academy/Gateway Academy for exceptional care, safety, and child development. Staff members, particularly leadership (Monica and Jessica/Danielle), are commended for going above and beyond and treating families with genuine compassion. Children show marked improvements in confidence, social skills, and academic readiness.

Safety and cleanliness standardsorganized activities and curriculumstaff dedication and compassion
Address
7131 Market Street, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 686-5777
Wilmington Preschool Of The Arts
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.9

Wilmington Preschool of the Arts receives consistently excellent feedback from parents, with all reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents praise the caring, patient staff, strong curriculum emphasizing arts and creativity, and safe, nurturing environment where children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Compassionate and patient teacherscaring director (Ms. Missy)safe environment
Address
3830 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 794-3025
The Learning Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8

The Learning Center in Wilmington, NC receives consistently high praise from parents, with all reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents highlight excellent staff, strong early education, and a nurturing environment where children thrive and enjoy attending. Multiple parents note clear communication, caring teachers, and noticeable developmental progress.

Enthusiastic and caring staffsmall class ratiosexcellent early education program
Address
2310 Scientific Park Drive, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 254-7384
Mary Washington Howe Pre-Kindergarten
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8
Address
1020 Meares Street, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 251-6195
College Road Early Childhood Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8
Address
4905 South College Road, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 350-7860
Milestones Learning Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8

Parents consistently praise Milestones Learning Center for its professional staff, clean facility, and strong educational approach that fosters a love of learning. Children reportedly show significant academic and social development, with long-term success noted through elementary school. Staff stability and outdoor activities are highlighted as key strengths.

Professional and caring staff with high turnoverclean facilityoutdoor time
Address
4915 Oriole Dr, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 452-3202
Rising Stars Of Wilmington
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.8

Rising Stars of Wilmington receives consistently high praise from parents who highlight the caring, friendly staff and family-oriented environment. Parents appreciate the center's detailed planning of activities, effective communication, and the genuine relationships staff members build with children and families. The facility is noted for being clean and well-managed.

Staff friendliness and carefamily-oriented environmentdetailed activity planning
Address
6743 Amsterdam Way, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 452-2231
Ywca @ Wesley Youth Enrichment Program
Church Daycare
4.7

Reviews praise the facility's friendly and welcoming staff, community atmosphere, and well-organized seasonal events like their pumpkin patch. Parents appreciate the welcoming environment for both regular attendees and visitors. The facility is noted for its community involvement and pleasant physical space.

Friendly and helpful staffwelcoming atmospherestrong sense of community
Address
1401 S College Road, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 799-6820
Learning Bridge Development Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.7

Learning Bridge Development Center receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from parents, with most praising the caring staff, clean facilities, and developmental programs. Parents report their children thrive and form lasting friendships. One parent had a negative experience regarding vaccine requirements and the center's decision to unenroll their children.

Loving and attentive teachersclean and bright facilitydaily communication and updates with parents
Address
4126 S College Road, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 399-3968
Brighter Day Daycare
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.6
Address
1409 Church Street, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 343-9651
Happy Kids Development Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.6

Happy Kids Development Center receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, with most parents praising the caring staff, clean facilities, engaging curriculum, and children's happiness. However, a small number of parents report administrative issues including billing problems, unresponsiveness, and classroom space concerns.

caring and attentive teachersclean facilitiesage-appropriate activities
Address
6320 Carolina Beach Rd, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 395-5286
The Learning Tree
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.5

The Learning Tree receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from parents praising the caring staff, quality instruction, and supportive environment. However, a serious violation was documented in April 2025 involving a staff member physically hitting children, resulting in immediate termination. One parent also expressed concerns about the facility's Christian environment and military friendliness.

Caring and sweet staffprofessional managementquality education (sign language
Address
4306 Lake Avenue, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 799-8400
Ywca Youth Enrichment Program
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.4

Parents consistently praise the YWCA Youth Enrichment Program for its excellent swim instruction, well-maintained facilities, and welcoming staff. The facility is noted for its quality programs including swim lessons, swim team opportunities, and summer camp, with strong community involvement and accessibility features.

Professional and friendly staffquality swim instructorsbeautiful and well-maintained pool
Address
2815 South College Rd, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 799-6820
Noah'S Ark Children'S Center
Church Daycare
4.4
Address
1501 Beasley Rd, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 395-0059
Classy Bears Day Care Preschool II INC.
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.4
Address
6620 Windmill Way, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 791-7872
Classy Bears Day Care & Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.4
Address
6620 Windmill Way, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 791-7872
Mustard Seed Ministry Childcare
Church Daycare
4.3

Mustard Seed Ministry Childcare receives mostly positive reviews praising caring staff, affordability, and child happiness. However, a small number of parents report communication issues and concerning disciplinary practices.

Caring and invested staffaffordable pricingmeals provided
Address
5656 Carolina Beach Road, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 796-9911
Bonnie Sanders Burney Child Development Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.2
Address
411 N Front St, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 362-7336
Children'S Cottage Of Wilmington
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.1

Parents consistently praise Children's Cottage for exceptional care, communication, and nurturing environment. Children are reported to be happy, engaged, and developing well across multiple age groups. Staff members are frequently highlighted by name as caring, attentive, and invested in each child's growth.

Caring and attentive teachersexcellent communication with parentsclean and organized facility
Address
107 Marshall Court, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 681-1101
Excel #3
Child Daycare & Preschools
4

Parents consistently praise EXCEL #3 for exceptional, loving care and staff dedication, particularly highlighting assistant director Megan Hixson's leadership improvements. Multiple reviews mention specific staff members like Ms. Gail, Ms. Stephanie, and Ms. Tyana as exceptionally caring and attentive to children's needs. The facility is described as clean, safe, and nurturing with strong communication between staff and parents.

Caring and attentive staffclean and safe facilityengaging activities
Address
165 Vision Drive, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 793-4884
Young Memories Learning Center LLC
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.7
Address
118 Old Dairy Road, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 313-2590
Dorothy B. Johnson Pre-K Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.7

Dorothy B. Johnson Pre-K Center receives mixed reviews. Parents praise the teaching staff as caring and knowledgeable, with strong kindergarten preparation. However, serious safety concerns about the school's location are cited, including monthly lockdown calls and neighborhood safety issues.

Caring and knowledgective teachersgood kindergarten preparationHead Start program benefits
Address
1100 Mcrae Street, Wilmington, NC
Phone
(910) 251-6155

Page 1 of 3· 64 results

Frequently asked questions

There are 64 all daycares in Wilmington, North Carolina. Browse our directory to compare options and find the right fit for your child.
When choosing a daycare in Wilmington, consider visiting facilities in person and checking:
  • Licensing status with North Carolina's regulatory agency
  • Staff-to-child ratios (requirements vary by age group in North Carolina)
  • Safety measures and cleanliness
  • Daily routines and educational curriculum
  • Parent reviews and ratings
  • Location and hours that fit your schedule
Wilmington offers several types of childcare facilities:
  • Child Daycare & Preschools — 52 facilities
  • Church Daycare — 5 facilities
  • Before or After School Daycare — 7 facilities
Each type serves different needs — center-based facilities typically offer structured programs, while head start programs are federally funded for low-income families.
Daycare costs in North Carolina typically range from $200 to $400 per week for full-time care, depending on the child's age, facility type, and location within the state. Infant care tends to be more expensive due to lower staff-to-child ratio requirements. Contact individual facilities in Wilmington for current pricing.
Yes, daycare centers in Wilmington must be licensed by North Carolina's childcare licensing agency. Licensed facilities are required to meet standards for safety, health, staff qualifications, and staff-to-child ratios. You can verify a facility's license status through your state's licensing database.