Frequently Asked Questions

Bright Beginnings is a nonprofit childcare center and a mission of Seward United Methodist Church. Because of a growing need for childcare in Seward and surrounding communities, the church voted in 2009 to allow BBCDC use of the church building for childcare purposes. The center is governed by a 12-member board of directors. The board meets monthly in addition to holding fundraisers and worknights to benefit the center. The day-to-day operations are managed by a full-time, trained childcare director. The center operates financially through tuition, grants and donations.

Yes! We are licensed by the State of Nebraska. Our staff receive training in First Aid, CPR and childcare best practices. Each staff member receives a background check and fingerprinting before hire. We operate under the rules and regulations of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, the State Fire Marshal and our local Department of Health.

We are located inside Seward United Methodist Church at 1400 N. 5th Street in Seward, Nebraska. Please schedule a visit in advance by calling (402) 643-2141.

We are open for care from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. We close for select holidays to give our staff time to rest and celebrate with their loved ones. Adverse weather may also affect our hours of operation.

We serve children ages 6 weeks to 12 years. We have classrooms for infants, toddlers, preschool/prekindergarten, and school-age. School-age care is available before school, after school, on scheduled non-school days and in the summer.

BBCDC uses the Creative Curriculum, endorsed by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. This curriculum focuses on children’s interests through hands-on experiences. We believe all ages learn best through play, and children spend a good amount of time outside in nature each day. Classes also enjoy music, share in God and Me time with one of the Seward United Methodist Church pastors, and participate in yoga, water days and field trips. We recently expanded our outdoor nature space to engage children in art, music, science, math and dramatic play, in addition to the playground structures.

All of our students are exposed to a variety of learning activities which involve large motor, small motor, sensory, hands-on, cognitive, technological and student-centered learning approaches.

Tuition varies depending on your child’s age. We offer discounts for siblings and members of Seward United Methodist Church. For specific rates and age group availability, please call (402) 643-2141 or email bbcdc.seward@gmail.com.

Yes. We are registered to accept the childcare subsidy offered through the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services for children age 12 and younger. A family must apply through DHHS, which will review factors such as income to determine eligibility. To learn more about the Child Care Subsidy Program, call (800) 383-4278 or visit https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Child-Care-Subsidy-Information-for-Parents.aspx.

Yes! We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization under the United Methodist Church. Donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of law. Please request a receipt for donations made to retain for tax purposes.

Please contact our director at (402) 643-2141 or email bbcdc.seward@gmail.com for more information or to schedule a tour of our center.