The Best Daycare Centers in Austin, CO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Austin. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Austin
Bright Beginnings Preschool
Independent
Bright Beginnings Preschool serves the Austin area from nearby Delta and offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with a play-based learning approach. The center features state-licensed teachers with early childhood education degrees, low student-to-teacher ratios, and a secure facility with coded entry systems. Their curriculum focuses on social-emotional development, literacy readiness, and STEM activities. The facility includes age-appropriate outdoor play areas, nutritious meal programs, and regular parent-teacher conferences. They stand out for their individualized learning plans and strong community reputation for quality care.
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Children's Garden Early Learning Center
Independent
Children's Garden Early Learning Center serves families throughout the region including Austin with a nature-inspired curriculum that emphasizes outdoor learning and environmental awareness. The center employs qualified early childhood educators with CPR and First Aid certifications, and maintains excellent staff retention rates. Their program includes daily outdoor exploration, gardening activities, and developmentally appropriate academic preparation. Safety features include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The center is recognized for its warm, nurturing environment and strong emphasis on creative expression through art and music.
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Montrose Early Learning Center
Independent
Montrose Early Learning Center provides high-quality childcare services to families in Austin and surrounding communities with a research-based curriculum that balances structured learning and child-directed play. The center features certified early childhood teachers, small class sizes, and a comprehensive assessment system to track developmental milestones. Their facility includes modern classrooms, safe outdoor playgrounds, and dedicated spaces for art, music, and movement. The program emphasizes literacy development, math readiness, and social skills through hands-on learning experiences. They are particularly noted for their excellent parent communication and flexible scheduling options for working families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Austin, CO
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Austin, Colorado, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Colorado, all childcare facilities caring for more than one unrelated child must be licensed by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC). This includes family childcare homes, childcare centers, and preschools. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, and child-to-staff ratios. For Austin specifically, which is a small town in Bent County, you can verify a provider's license status and view any history of violations through the official Colorado Shines website or by contacting the CDEC directly. It's crucial to check this, as it's your primary assurance of regulatory compliance. Many local providers may also participate in the Colorado Shines quality rating system, which offers additional insight into program quality beyond basic licensing.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in and around Austin, CO, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the limited number of childcare providers in smaller communities like Austin, waitlists can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for infant care. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy. Don't limit your search to Austin proper; consider providers in nearby larger towns like Las Animas or La Junta, which may have more options but will involve a commute. Be proactive—call facilities regularly to check your status and express continued interest. Also, explore licensed family childcare homes, which may have shorter waitlists and offer a more home-like setting.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Austin, Colorado?
Childcare costs in rural Colorado like Austin are generally lower than in metropolitan areas, but availability is the greater challenge. For full-time care, you can expect to pay approximately $600 to $900 per month for an infant or toddler at a licensed center or home. Costs may be slightly lower for preschool-age children. It's important to inquire about what is included in the tuition (meals, snacks, supplies). Given the rural location and potential income levels, many families in Bent County may qualify for financial assistance through the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP). You can apply through the Bent County Department of Human Services to see if you're eligible for subsidies to help offset the cost.
Are there any unique outdoor or nature-based childcare programs that take advantage of Colorado's environment near Austin?
While formal, licensed nature-based preschools are less common in very rural areas, the ethos of outdoor play is strong in Colorado. Many home-based providers and centers in the region prioritize outdoor time, given the access to open spaces and generally favorable weather. When touring facilities, ask specifically about their daily outdoor play schedule, their playground safety, and if they incorporate activities like gardening, local nature walks, or learning about the High Plains environment. Some providers may partner with local parks or have large, natural play areas. This is a key question for parents who value the developmental benefits of outdoor exploration and want a program that aligns with Colorado's active lifestyle, even in a small-town setting.
What backup or emergency childcare options exist for parents in Austin if our regular provider is closed or our child is mildly ill?
Backup childcare is a significant challenge in small, rural communities with limited providers. Formal drop-in centers are unlikely to exist in Austin. Your best strategies are to: 1) Discuss backup plans directly with your primary provider—some in-home providers may offer more flexibility. 2) Network with other local parents to arrange informal, reciprocal babysitting swaps. 3) Inquire if any licensed providers in Las Animas offer occasional drop-in care for established families. 4) For sick children, most standard daycares have exclusion policies for fever, vomiting, etc. You will need a plan with a family member, a trusted neighbor, or a nanny share backup. Planning for these situations is critical, as last-minute options are extremely scarce in the Austin area.