Steppin' Stone Nursery: A Charlestown Cornerstone for Little Ones
A family-run Nevisian nursery that has raised a generation of island children since 1990.
Why Go
Tucked into the Stoney Grove neighborhood of Charlestown, Steppin' Stone Nursery is the kind of small, home-grown institution that quietly holds a community together. Founded by Mrs. Leonie Dasent in May 1990, it is one of the very few childcare centres on Nevis that stays open year-round, giving working parents and visiting families a warm, dependable place to leave their little ones. Ask anyone in Charlestown about 'Teacher Fortune' and you'll get a smile of recognition.
The Experience
Walking up to Steppin' Stone feels less like arriving at a school and more like visiting a favorite auntie's house: brightly painted walls, the sound of nursery rhymes drifting out into the yard, and children running to greet familiar faces. The team, led by supervisor Ms. Oneka Fortune, leans hard into interactive, hands-on play, mixing structured early-learning activities with the kind of easy, sing-song island rhythm that Nevisian kids grow up on. Because it operates year-round, the nursery has become a lifeline for parents in Charlestown's shops, banks, and government offices, and a soft-landing spot for expat and long-stay families who need reliable care while they settle in.
What to Try
If you are relocating to Nevis or spending an extended stay with young children, arrange a short visit before enrolling. Watch a morning circle time, meet Teacher Fortune, and see how the children interact ΓÇö that is where the nursery's personality really shines. For visitors without kids, drop off a small donation of books, art supplies, or gently used toys; the centre gratefully accepts community contributions and it is a lovely way to give back to the island.
Insider Tip
Space is limited and word-of-mouth demand is strong among Charlestown families, so reach out well before you need care ΓÇö ideally a few weeks ahead. Mention specific days and hours you need; because the nursery is family-run, they can often flex to accommodate parents on unusual work schedules, something the bigger daycare centres on the island simply cannot do.
The Practical Stuff
Location: Stoney Grove, Charlestown, Nevis (a short drive or walk from the town centre and the Charlestown ferry pier). The nursery operates year-round, unlike most Nevisian childcare centres that close during school holidays. Contact is easiest through their Facebook page (Steppin' Stone Nursery) or by asking locally in Charlestown ΓÇö this is very much a word-of-mouth, community-embedded business. Come prepared with your child's immunization records and be ready for a warm, informal chat rather than a corporate intake process.
Pair It With
- Birthplace of Alexander Hamilton Guide — A five-minute stop in central Charlestown ΓÇö perfect for a parent to squeeze in some history while running errands near the nursery.
- Bath Hotel and Spring House Guide — After nursery drop-off, unwind in Nevis's historic hot springs just outside Charlestown ΓÇö a restorative parent ritual.
- Bananas Restaurant Guide — A family-friendly Nevisian spot ideal for a relaxed lunch or early dinner once the little ones are picked up.
- Cades Bay Guide — An easy beach afternoon within short driving distance ΓÇö pair a morning at the nursery with an afternoon of sand and sea.