There are several options for finding someone to watch your young child. These options are home-based daycare, center-based daycare, preschool, and/or private nanny/babysitter.

The hours and schedules of child care providers vary; most offer full-time care and some offer weekend or holiday care. Prices vary from $150/week - $250/week in Harrisonburg and frequently, home-based care is less expensive than center-based care. However, availability is very limited. Many families are on a wait list for many months before a space becomes available for their child/children.

The following resources are a good place to start your search for child care in Harrisonburg:

• Google "Childcare in Harrisonburg/Rockingham" to see current childcare facilities 
• Begin your search for local nannies and babysitters at Care.com and at SitterCity.com

Public Education in the United States

Public schools are funded by the state government, which means students in grades K- 12 do not pay tuition. Generally, schools are divided into elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools. Elementary schools are composed of students in kindergarten and grades 1-5. Most children attend kindergarten when they are five-years-old. Middle school is composed of students in grades 6-8 and high school contains grades 9-12.

The public school your child will attend is determined by where you live.

               Harrisonburg City Schools

               Rockingham County Schools

After School Programs

School days end between 3-3:30 p.m. If you need care for your child after these hours, there are different programs available that may help.

• Boys and Girls Club of Harrisonburg has different activities including fitness programs and tutoring/homework help.
• Second Home Learning Center offers before and after school care, including tutoring and enrichment activities.
• Harrisonburg City Public Schools has several after school programs.