The Best Daycare Centers in Aurora, CO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Aurora. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Aurora
Primrose School of Aurora
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Aurora offers a balanced learning approach through their exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum, combining teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. The school features highly qualified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development, secure entry systems with coded access, and age-appropriate learning environments. Their curriculum emphasizes character development, literacy, math, science, and social skills through hands-on learning experiences. The facility includes dedicated outdoor play areas, modern classrooms with natural lighting, and comprehensive safety protocols including regular security drills and health screenings.
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The Goddard School of Aurora
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Aurora provides a play-based learning environment through their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program, focusing on academic, social, and emotional development. The school employs state-certified teachers with early childhood education degrees and maintains low student-teacher ratios. Their STEAM-focused curriculum includes language arts, mathematics, science, and creative arts in purpose-built classrooms. The facility features secure keypad entry, comprehensive camera systems, sanitization protocols, and age-appropriate playgrounds. Parents receive regular updates through the proprietary mobile app with photos and developmental progress reports.
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Parker Montessori
Parker Montessori Preschool
Parker Montessori serves the greater Aurora area with authentic AMI-recognized Montessori education, featuring highly trained guides with specialized Montessori certification. The school offers a comprehensive developmental approach through carefully prepared environments with authentic Montessori materials. Their curriculum emphasizes independence, practical life skills, sensorial development, language acquisition, and mathematical thinking. The facility includes beautiful outdoor classrooms, gardens, and natural play spaces with emphasis on environmental education. Safety features include secured premises, health and wellness programs, and nutritious meal options prepared on-site. The school maintains strong parent partnerships through regular conferences and classroom observations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Aurora, CO
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Aurora, Colorado, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Aurora, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC), which enforces the Colorado Child Care Licensing Act. This includes family child care homes, center-based programs, and preschools. Licensing ensures providers meet standards for staff qualifications (including background checks and training in areas like CPR/First Aid), child-to-staff ratios, health and safety protocols, and facility requirements. To verify a provider's license, you can use the official "Colorado Shines" quality rating and improvement system website or the CDEC licensing lookup tool. This resource not only confirms licensure but also shows if a program has a quality rating (Level 1-5) and any history of licensing violations. Always choose a licensed provider for your child's safety and your peace of mind.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Aurora, and are there financial assistance programs available?
The cost of childcare in Aurora varies by type and age, but on average, full-time infant care in a center can range from $1,400 to $1,800 per month, while toddler care typically costs between $1,200 and $1,600 per month. Family child care homes may be slightly less expensive. These costs are influenced by factors like the program's location, its Colorado Shines rating, and included amenities. For financial assistance, Colorado offers the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP), administered through the Arapahoe County Department of Human Services for Aurora residents. Eligibility is based on income, work, or school attendance. Additionally, many providers accept the state's Universal Preschool (UPK) funding for 4-year-olds, and some may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships.
How long are typical waitlists for quality daycare centers in Aurora, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists for highly-rated daycare centers and preschools in popular areas of Aurora (like Southlands, Saddle Rock, or near the Anschutz Medical Campus) can be substantial, often ranging from 3 to 12 months, especially for infant rooms which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before your needed start date. Be proactive: contact multiple centers, get on their waitlists (sometimes for a small fee), and follow up politely every few months. Consider expanding your search to include licensed family child care homes in your neighborhood, which may have shorter wait times. Flexibility on start dates or considering centers slightly outside your immediate area can also help.
What are the options for part-time or non-traditional hours childcare in Aurora for parents with shift work or irregular schedules?
Aurora, home to major employers like the Anschutz Medical Campus, Buckley Space Force Base, and various service industries, has a growing need for flexible childcare. Options include: 1) Some larger childcare centers offering extended hours (e.g., 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM) or specific part-time schedules (2-3 days a week). 2) Licensed family child care homes, which may offer more personalized and flexible hour arrangements. 3) Specialized drop-in childcare centers, though these are less common. 4) Utilizing the "Care.com" or "Winnie" apps to search for providers who list flexible hours. It's crucial to communicate your schedule needs clearly during tours and confirm that the provider's license permits care during your required hours. Some facilities near hospital complexes are more accustomed to accommodating shift workers.
How does Colorado's Universal Preschool (UPK) program work for 4-year-olds in Aurora, and how do I apply?
Colorado's Universal Preschool (UPK) program provides up to 15 hours per week of free, high-quality preschool to all Colorado 4-year-olds in the year before they enter kindergarten, with additional hours available for qualifying children. In Aurora, you apply through a single, centralized online application at the Colorado Department of Early Childhood website. The application typically opens in January for the following school year. You will rank your preferred participating providers, which include school district programs (like Cherry Creek or Aurora Public Schools), community-based centers, and licensed family homes. After applying, you'll be matched with a provider based on your choices, location, and availability. It's important to note that while UPK covers the preschool tuition, the provider may charge for wraparound care (additional hours beyond the 15), meals, or registration fees.