The Best Daycare Centers in Bellvue, CO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Bellvue. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Bellvue
The Goddard School of Fort Collins
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Fort Collins offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their highly qualified teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and maintain low student-to-teacher ratios. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. The curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social-emotional development with daily communication to parents through their proprietary app. They provide nutritious meals and snacks and maintain rigorous health and safety protocols.
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Primrose School of Fort Collins
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Fort Collins follows the Balanced Learning® approach, combining teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a focus on character development and academics. Their degreed educators implement research-based curricula that include music, Spanish, and literacy programs. The secure facility features dedicated infant rooms, interactive learning centers, and protected outdoor playgrounds. They maintain excellent staff-to-child ratios and employ comprehensive safety protocols including secure entry systems. Parents receive regular updates through the Primrose Schools app with photos and developmental milestones tracking.
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The Learning Experience - Fort Collins
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Fort Collins offers a comprehensive early education curriculum with proprietary programs including L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) and philanthropy curriculum. Their state-licensed teachers provide individualized attention with small class sizes and focus on academic preparation along with social skills development. The center features modern security systems, age-specific learning environments, and outdoor play spaces. They offer enrichment programs including soccer, yoga, and STEM activities. The center maintains strict health and safety standards with regular sanitation and secure check-in procedures, while providing daily communication to parents about their child's activities and progress.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Bellvue, CO
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Bellvue, Colorado, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Bellvue, as part of 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, child-to-staff ratios, and program activities. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the official "Colorado Shines" public search tool on the CDEC website. This tool not only confirms licensure but also shows a program's quality rating (Level 1-5), any history of violations, and inspection reports. It's the most reliable first step for parents in the Bellvue area to ensure a provider operates legally and meets state standards.
How long are typical waitlists for quality daycare centers in the Bellvue area, and when should I start looking?
Due to Bellvue's more rural setting within Larimer County and limited high-density childcare centers, waitlists for highly-rated programs can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for infant and toddler care. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search and get on waitlists during the early stages of pregnancy or as soon as they know they will need care. Many popular centers in nearby communities like Fort Collins, which some Bellvue residents commute to, also have lengthy waitlists. Starting early provides more options and reduces last-minute stress. Be prepared to place non-refundable deposits on multiple waitlists.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare for an infant or toddler in Bellvue, CO?
Childcare costs in Bellvue and the surrounding Larimer County area are relatively high. For a licensed childcare center, full-time infant care typically ranges from $1,400 to $1,800 per month. Toddler care is slightly less, averaging $1,200 to $1,600 per month. Licensed family childcare homes may offer more affordable rates, often between $900 and $1,300 monthly. These costs are influenced by the program's "Colorado Shines" quality rating, with higher-rated programs commanding higher fees. Parents should also inquire about what is included in tuition (meals, diapers, etc.). Financial assistance may be available through the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP) for qualifying families.
Are there any unique childcare options in Bellvue that cater to families with agricultural or non-traditional work schedules?
Yes, Bellvue's rural and agricultural character means some childcare providers are more familiar with non-standard schedules. While large centers typically operate on a standard 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM weekday schedule, some licensed family childcare homes may offer more flexibility, including early morning, evening, or occasional weekend care to accommodate shift work or seasonal farming demands. It's important to communicate your specific schedule needs upfront when interviewing providers. Additionally, exploring in-home nanny shares with other local families can be a practical solution for irregular hours, though this requires careful vetting and arrangement of employment terms, including taxes and insurance.
What outdoor and nature-based learning opportunities are commonly available at daycares in the Bellvue area?
Given Bellvue's location at the foothills of the Rockies with abundant access to open spaces, many local childcare providers emphasize outdoor play and nature-based learning. It's common to find programs with large, natural outdoor play areas, gardens, and regular outdoor time regardless of weather (following safe weather policies). Some providers may incorporate short, supervised nature walks or activities that connect children to the local environment. When touring facilities, ask about their daily outdoor schedule, philosophy on risky play, and how they utilize the natural landscape. This focus aligns with Colorado's early learning guidelines and is a significant benefit for child development in the Bellvue community.