The Best Daycare Centers in San Simon, AZ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in San Simon. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in San Simon
Graham County Cooperative Preschool
Graham County Cooperative Preschool
Graham County Cooperative Preschool is a highly-rated early childhood education center located approximately 45 minutes from San Simon. This cooperative preschool emphasizes parent involvement and developmentally appropriate practices. They follow a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center features certified early childhood educators with specialized training in child development. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and dedicated learning centers. The program focuses on preparing children for kindergarten through structured activities and hands-on learning experiences, with strong emphasis on social skills and independence building.
Daycare Services:
Little Angels Preschool & Childcare
Little Angels Preschool & Childcare
Located about 30 minutes from San Simon in Willcox, Little Angels Preschool & Childcare provides comprehensive early childhood services with a focus on individualized care. The center offers age-specific programs from infants through school-age children, featuring low teacher-to-child ratios and state-certified early childhood educators. Their curriculum integrates Montessori-inspired activities with traditional early learning standards, including language development, cognitive skills, and physical coordination. The facility includes secure, age-appropriate playgrounds, modern classrooms with educational technology, and nutritional meal programs. Parents consistently praise the center's attentive staff, clean environment, and strong communication practices.
Daycare Services:
Safford Kid's Campus
Safford Unified School District
Safford Kid's Campus, operated by the Safford Unified School District, serves as a regional early childhood education hub approximately 45 minutes from San Simon. This facility offers high-quality preschool programs with certified teachers who hold early childhood endorsements. The curriculum aligns with Arizona Early Learning Standards and focuses on school readiness through literacy-rich environments, STEM activities, and social development. The center features specialized learning centers, secure outdoor play spaces, and comprehensive safety protocols. Additional services include developmental screenings, family support resources, and transition programs for kindergarten preparation. The program is noted for its structured learning environment and experienced educational staff.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in San Simon, AZ
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in San Simon, AZ?
In San Simon, due to its small, rural nature, licensed childcare options are primarily limited to Family Child Care Homes (FCCH). These are in-home providers licensed by the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) to care for a small number of children, typically up to 10, in a residential setting. There are currently no large daycare centers in San Simon itself. Many families also utilize legally exempt "Relative/Non-Relative" care or look for licensed providers in nearby larger communities like Willcox (approx. 30 miles away) or Douglas (approx. 50 miles away) for center-based options. Checking the ADHS Child Care Licensing online database is the best way to find currently licensed providers in the 85632 zip code.
How much does childcare typically cost in San Simon, and is financial assistance available?
In San Simon's limited market, costs for a licensed Family Child Care Home can vary but are generally lower than urban center rates. You might expect to pay approximately $120-$180 per week for full-time infant/toddler care. School-age care for before/after school programs, if available, would be less. Financial assistance is available through the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) Child Care Assistance program for eligible families based on income, work, or school attendance. Given the rural location, it's crucial to apply early and confirm that a local provider accepts DES subsidies, as not all do. The local DES office serving Cochise County is located in Sierra Vista.
Are there long waitlists for childcare in San Simon, and how far in advance should I start looking?
While not as extreme as in major cities, waitlists can be a reality in San Simon simply due to very limited provider capacity. With only a handful of licensed homes, a single opening can fill quickly. It is strongly recommended to begin your search at least 3-4 months before you need care, and if you are pregnant, to start inquiring during your second trimester. Be prepared to contact every listed provider and also ask for referrals for potential unlisted or new in-home caregivers. Networking through local community groups or churches can be invaluable for finding upcoming availability.
What should I look for when evaluating a Family Child Care Home in San Simon?
First and foremost, verify the provider's current license status with ADHS. During a visit, observe the home's safety: check for covered outlets, secured cabinets, safe sleep practices for infants, and a clean, child-proofed environment. Ask about their daily schedule, educational philosophy, meal provisions, and emergency plans for things like illness or power outages, which can be more impactful in a rural area. Inquire about their transportation policies if they offer school pick-up from the local San Simon School. Finally, trust your instincts on the caregiver's warmth, experience, and communication style. References from other local parents are extremely valuable.
What are the state-required child-to-staff ratios for in-home providers in Arizona, and how does this impact care in San Simon?
Arizona law mandates specific child-to-staff ratios based on age. For Family Child Care Homes, a single caregiver can care for up to 5 children under the age of 13, with no more than 4 being under 5 years old, and of those, no more than 2 being under 2 years old. These ratios are strictly enforced through licensing. In San Simon, this means each provider can only serve a very small number of families, directly contributing to the scarcity of spots. It also means care should be more personalized. Always confirm the provider is not exceeding these ratios, as this is a key indicator of quality and safety compliance.