The Best Daycare Centers in Winslow, AZ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Winslow. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Winslow
Little Rascals Learning Center
Independent
Little Rascals Learning Center is Winslow's premier childcare facility offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. They feature a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates literacy, math, science, and social development activities. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios with qualified staff who receive ongoing training in early childhood development. Their facility includes secure indoor learning environments and safe outdoor play areas with age-appropriate equipment. The center emphasizes nutritional meal programs and maintains excellent safety protocols with secure entry systems. Parents praise the center's nurturing environment and strong communication about child development milestones.
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Kiddie Kampus Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Kampus Learning Center provides quality early childhood education with a focus on developmental appropriateness and individualized learning. Their curriculum blends structured academic preparation with creative exploration through arts, music, and movement. The center features certified early childhood educators who implement Arizona's Early Learning Standards. Their facility includes modern classrooms, a dedicated library corner, and secure outdoor playgrounds. The center maintains comprehensive safety protocols including background-checked staff, security cameras, and emergency preparedness plans. Parents consistently commend the center's engaging learning activities and the staff's dedication to each child's social-emotional development.
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Tiny Tots Childcare & Preschool
Independent
Tiny Tots Childcare & Preschool offers a warm, family-oriented environment with structured educational programs for young children. Their approach combines Montessori-inspired activities with traditional preschool curriculum, focusing on developing independence, problem-solving skills, and kindergarten readiness. The center features experienced teachers with backgrounds in early childhood education and maintains small class sizes for personalized attention. Their facility includes dedicated learning centers for different developmental areas, age-appropriate learning materials, and safe indoor/outdoor play spaces. The center emphasizes character development and social skills while providing nutritious snacks and meals. Parents appreciate the consistent routines and the center's focus on preparing children for academic success.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Winslow, AZ
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Winslow, AZ, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Winslow, all childcare facilities caring for more than four children must be licensed by the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS), Office of Child Care Licensure. This includes home-based and center-based programs. Licensed providers must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, health and safety training, facility safety, and ongoing inspections. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the ADHS online "Child Care Facility Search" tool or contact the Northern Regional Office of Child Care Licensure directly. It's highly recommended to only consider licensed providers to ensure your child's safety and a regulated standard of care.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Winslow, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Winslow, the average cost for full-time, center-based infant care typically ranges from $600 to $850 per month. For toddlers, costs may be slightly lower, around $550 to $750 per month. Home-based daycare is often more affordable, averaging $450 to $650 monthly. These costs are generally lower than the Arizona state average but are significant relative to local incomes. For financial assistance, parents can apply for the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) Child Care Assistance Program, which provides subsidies to eligible low-income families. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's important to ask directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Winslow, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the limited number of licensed childcare facilities in Winslow, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care. It's not unusual for popular centers to have waitlists of 3 to 9 months. For home-based providers, availability can be more sporadic but may also require advanced planning. We strongly recommend starting your search at least 6-12 months before you need care, particularly if you require an infant spot. When touring facilities, always ask about their current waitlist length and policy. Getting on multiple lists can increase your chances of securing a spot when needed.
Are there any childcare options in Winslow that offer non-traditional hours for parents working shifts at local employers like the BNSF Railway or Winslow Memorial Hospital?
Yes, this is a critical consideration in Winslow given the local economy. While most standard daycare centers operate from approximately 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM, options for evenings, nights, and weekends are extremely limited. Your best bet is to seek out licensed family childcare homes, as some providers may offer more flexible hours to accommodate shift workers. It's essential to be upfront about your schedule needs during initial inquiries. Networking with other shift-working parents in the community or through your employer (BNSF, the hospital, etc.) can sometimes lead to recommendations for in-home providers or nanny shares that cater to non-traditional hours.
What resources are available in Winslow to help me find and evaluate local daycare and preschool programs?
The primary resource for finding licensed providers is the Arizona Department of Health Services online search tool. For personalized assistance, you can contact the **First Things First Navajo-Apache Regional Partnership Council**, which serves Winslow. They can provide referrals and information on quality early childhood programs. Additionally, the **Northland Pioneer College (NPC) Winslow Center** may have resources or connections to early childhood education programs. When evaluating, always schedule in-person tours, ask for references from current parents, and check for quality indicators like a structured curriculum, qualified staff, and a clean, safe environment. Don't hesitate to ask providers about their experience with school readiness for local schools like Bonnie Brennan Elementary.