The Best Daycare Centers in Broomfield, CO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Broomfield. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Broomfield
Bright Horizons at Broomfield
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Broomfield is part of a nationally recognized early education provider with NAEYC accreditation. The center offers an emergent curriculum that builds on children's interests while incorporating STEM learning, literacy development, and social-emotional skills. Features include highly qualified teachers with early childhood education degrees, low child-to-teacher ratios, secure entry systems, and age-appropriate outdoor learning environments. The center serves many local employers including Ball Aerospace and provides flexible scheduling options for working families.
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Primrose School of Westminster
Primrose Schools
Located just minutes from Broomfield, Primrose School of Westminster offers the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach that combines teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. The curriculum emphasizes character development, literacy, math, science, and creative arts in purpose-built classrooms. Features include degreed early childhood teachers, secure keypad entry, comprehensive safety protocols, nutritious meals prepared on-site, and large outdoor playgrounds. The school maintains excellent state licensing compliance and strong parent satisfaction through regular communication and developmental progress reports.
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The Goddard School of Thornton
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Thornton serves families throughout the northern metro area including Broomfield with its F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with play-based learning. The school features STEAM curriculum components, literacy-rich environments, and technology integration in age-appropriate ways. All teachers hold early childhood education credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. The facility includes secure entry systems, multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups, and classroom observation systems for parent engagement. The school maintains excellent health and safety standards with comprehensive cleaning protocols.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Broomfield, CO
What are the typical costs for daycare in Broomfield, CO, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Broomfield, daycare costs vary significantly based on the child's age and the type of care. For infants, full-time center-based care typically ranges from $1,600 to $2,200 per month, while toddler care is slightly lower, around $1,400 to $1,900 per month. Preschool programs often cost between $1,200 and $1,700 monthly. Licensed home-based daycare is generally more affordable, averaging $1,000 to $1,500 per month. To help with these expenses, Broomfield County qualifies for the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP), which provides subsidies to eligible families based on income, family size, and need. Additionally, many local centers offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's recommended to contact the Broomfield Department of Human Services or the Colorado Department of Early Childhood for the most current eligibility guidelines and application processes.
How long are daycare waitlists in Broomfield, and what can I do to secure a spot for my infant?
Due to high demand, especially for infant care (children under 18 months), waitlists in Broomfield can be substantial. It's not uncommon for reputable centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy, ideally in the second trimester. Be proactive by contacting multiple licensed centers and family childcare homes to get on their lists. Many facilities require a non-refundable waitlist fee. Consider expanding your search to neighboring communities like Westminster, Louisville, or Superior, but be mindful of commute logistics. Networking with other parents in local groups (like on Facebook or Nextdoor) can also provide leads on lesser-known or newly opening providers. Always confirm a provider's licensing status with the Colorado Office of Early Childhood.
What are the licensing requirements and safety regulations for childcare providers in Broomfield, Colorado?
All childcare providers in Broomfield caring for more than one unrelated child must be licensed by the Colorado Department of Human Services, Office of Early Childhood. Key regulations include rigorous background checks for all staff, mandatory training in CPR/First Aid, Safe Sleep practices (for infants), and ongoing professional development. The state mandates specific staff-to-child ratios: for infants (0-18 months), it's 1:5; for toddlers (18-36 months), it's 1:7; and for preschoolers (3-4 years), it's 1:10. Facilities are subject to unannounced annual inspections covering health, safety, and program quality. Parents can and should verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any violations through the Colorado Shines website, which also rates program quality on a 1-5 star scale.
Are there unique outdoor or nature-based childcare programs available in Broomfield?
Yes, Broomfield's proximity to open spaces and parks makes it conducive to nature-based programs. Several local providers incorporate outdoor learning as a core component. For example, some preschools and daycares utilize the Broomfield County Commons, nearby trails, and community gardens for daily activities. There are also specialized "forest school" or outdoor preschool models in the broader Denver metro area that may serve Broomfield families. These programs emphasize outdoor play in all weather (with proper gear), environmental education, and physical development. When researching, ask providers about their daily outdoor time policy, their use of local parks like Broomfield County Commons or the Paul Derda Recreation Center areas, and their philosophy on risk and exploration in natural settings.
What resources are available in Broomfield to help me evaluate and choose a quality childcare provider?
Broomfield offers several key resources. First, utilize **Colorado Shines**, the state's quality rating and improvement system. This website allows you to search for licensed providers, view their quality rating (1-5 stars), and read detailed assessment reports. Second, the **Broomfield Early Childhood Council** is a local organization that provides referrals, parenting resources, and information on early childhood programs and events. They can be contacted directly for personalized guidance. Third, consider joining local parent networks on social media (e.g., "Broomfield Parents" Facebook groups) for firsthand recommendations and experiences. Finally, always schedule in-person tours, ask for references from current parents, and observe how staff interact with children during your visit to assess the environment firsthand.
Childcare Insights for Broomfield
Finding the right part-time daycare in Broomfield, Colorado, can feel like a significant step for any family. Whether you’re returning to work a few days a week, need care for a preschooler while you manage other commitments, or simply want your child to enjoy social interaction in a structured setting, knowing your local options is key. The good news for Broomfield parents is that our community offers a variety of high-quality, flexible childcare solutions designed to meet the unique rhythms of modern family life.
When beginning your search for part-time daycare in Broomfield, it’s helpful to understand the common structures available. Many local centers and in-home providers offer programs such as two or three-day-a-week schedules, half-day options, or even drop-in care for those with fluctuating needs. Given Broomfield’s position as a family-friendly community with access to both urban amenities and natural spaces, you’ll find programs that often incorporate outdoor play and exploration, taking advantage of our beautiful parks and 300 days of sunshine. A practical first step is to visit Colorado’s official childcare licensing website to review the licensed providers in our specific zip codes, paying close attention to their offered schedules and age groups.
As you explore options, consider visiting a few places in person. This allows you to get a feel for the environment, ask about caregiver-to-child ratios, and understand their daily flow. In Broomfield, you might inquire about how they handle our occasional snowy days or if they have secure outdoor play areas. Don’t hesitate to ask for references from other local parents; community insights are invaluable. Joining local parent groups on social media platforms can also yield honest recommendations and experiences about part-time care at specific Broomfield centers or home-based providers.
Another local consideration is alignment with the Boulder Valley School District calendar if you have older children, as finding a program with compatible schedules can simplify logistics. Furthermore, with major employers and tech parks in the area, some Broomfield businesses even partner with nearby childcare centers to offer priority placement or discounts, so it’s worth checking with your HR department. When you find a potential fit, be clear about your required days and times, as part-time slots can fill quickly, and flexibility might vary. Trust your instincts during your visits—the right environment will feel safe, engaging, and communicative.
Ultimately, securing part-time daycare in Broomfield is about finding a balance that supports your child’s growth and your family’s needs. The process may require some patience and research, but the reward is a nurturing setting where your child can learn and play, giving you peace of mind. By focusing on licensed providers, leveraging local parent networks, and prioritizing a visit to see the day-to-day atmosphere, you can find a wonderful part-time program that feels just right for your family here in our community.