Unalaska, AK

Unalaska Childcare Center is the primary licensed childcare facility serving the remote Aleutian Islands community. Operating from a modern, purpose-built facility, they offer comprehensive early childhood education with a play-based learning approach. The center features highly qualified staff with early childhood development certifications, maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios, and provides nutritious meals through their USDA food program. Their curriculum emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM activities adapted for Alaska's unique environment. The facility includes secure indoor play areas and weather-appropriate outdoor spaces. They maintain strong safety protocols including secure entry systems and emergency preparedness plans specific to the island's remote location.

Unalaska Head Start provides high-quality early childhood education through the federally-funded Head Start program, specifically designed for low-income families in remote Alaska communities. The program employs degreed early childhood educators and follows a comprehensive curriculum focused on school readiness, literacy development, and social skills. Services include health screenings, dental care, nutritional support, and extensive family engagement programs. The facility maintains excellent safety standards with regular inspections and staff trained in trauma-informed care. Their approach incorporates cultural elements from the Unangax̂ community while preparing children for kindergarten success through structured learning activities and developmental assessments.

Little Dippers Daycare operates as a licensed family childcare home providing personalized care in a home-like environment. The facility features small group sizes with consistent caregiver relationships, allowing for individualized attention and developmental tracking. Their educational approach combines Montessori-inspired activities with Alaska Early Learning Guidelines, focusing on hands-on learning, outdoor exploration, and creative expression. The daycare maintains rigorous safety standards including CPR/first aid certified staff, secure premises, and comprehensive emergency protocols for the island community. They offer flexible scheduling to accommodate fishing industry and healthcare workers' irregular hours, with emphasis on building strong parent-caregiver partnerships through regular communication and developmental updates.