The Best Daycare Centers in Burlington, CO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Burlington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Burlington
Building Blocks Learning Center
Independent
Building Blocks Learning Center is Burlington's premier early childhood education facility, offering a comprehensive developmental curriculum for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years. The center emphasizes play-based learning with structured educational components, including literacy development, math readiness, and social-emotional learning. Their qualified teaching staff maintains low student-teacher ratios and participates in ongoing professional development. The facility features secure access controls, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas designed for different age groups. What sets Building Blocks apart is their strong community integration and family engagement approach, with regular parent-teacher conferences and family events throughout the year.
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Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center provides a nurturing environment with a focus on individualized learning plans for each child. Their curriculum combines Montessori-inspired elements with traditional early childhood education, emphasizing hands-on learning and exploration. The center features certified early childhood educators who create developmentally appropriate lesson plans targeting cognitive, physical, and social development. Safety is prioritized with secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and regular safety drills. The facility includes dedicated infant rooms, toddler learning centers, and a preschool preparation program that focuses on kindergarten readiness skills. Parents appreciate the daily communication and progress updates provided through their digital platform.
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Stratton Early Learning Center
Independent
Located just 15 miles from Burlington in neighboring Stratton, this center serves families throughout Kit Carson County with a comprehensive early childhood program. Stratton Early Learning Center offers a structured academic preschool program that prepares children for kindergarten success, focusing on literacy, numeracy, and social skills development. Their experienced teaching staff holds early childhood credentials and receives continuous training in child development best practices. The center features modern classrooms, a large outdoor playground with safety surfaces, and a dedicated art and music room. Their before and after school program provides transportation to and from local schools, making it convenient for working families in the Burlington area. The center is known for its strong emphasis on community values and character education.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Burlington, CO
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Burlington, Colorado, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Burlington, 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 child care homes, child care centers, and preschools. Licensing ensures providers meet state 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" online search tool. This database not only confirms licensing but also shows if a provider participates in the state's quality rating and improvement system. You can also contact the CDEC's Northeast Regional Office, which oversees Kit Carson County, for additional verification. Always ask to see the provider's current license during your visit.
What is the typical cost range for full-time infant and toddler daycare in Burlington, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Burlington and the surrounding Kit Carson County area, full-time daycare costs can vary. For infant care, parents can expect to pay approximately $600 to $850 per month. Toddler care typically ranges from $550 to $750 per month. These rates are generally lower than in Colorado's major metropolitan areas but reflect local operating costs. For financial assistance, the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP) is the primary resource. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or education). Applications are processed through the Kit Carson County Department of Human Services located in Burlington. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's important to inquire directly.
How long are daycare waitlists typically in Burlington, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the limited number of licensed childcare providers in a rural community like Burlington, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant spots. It is not uncommon for popular centers or highly-regarded home-based providers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. For infants, it is advisable to begin your search and get on waitlists as soon as you know you are expecting, or at least 9-12 months before your needed start date. For toddler or preschool-age care, starting your search 4-6 months in advance is recommended. Be proactive: contact multiple providers, get on multiple lists, and follow up periodically to express your continued interest.
Are there any unique childcare options in Burlington that cater to the agricultural lifestyle common in Eastern Colorado?
Yes, Burlington's rural and agricultural setting influences some childcare options. Several licensed family child care homes may offer more flexible hours to accommodate farm and ranch families with early mornings or seasonal variability. Some providers incorporate elements of the local environment into their curriculum, such as gardening projects, animal education, and outdoor play that embraces the plains landscape. Furthermore, the community's strong network means many providers understand the demands of harvest season. It's worth asking providers directly about their experience with and flexibility for agricultural families. The local Colorado State University Extension office in Kit Carson County may also have resources or connections to programs supporting rural childcare.
What resources are available in Burlington to help me evaluate and choose a quality childcare program?
The best resource for evaluating quality is the "Colorado Shines" rating system. This state program assesses and rates licensed childcare providers on a scale of 1 to 5 (with 5 being the highest) based on factors like staff qualifications, learning environment, and family partnerships. You can search for rated programs in Burlington on the Colorado Shines website. Additionally, you can contact the Kit Carson County Public Health Department for information on local health and safety records. For personal recommendations, consider asking other parents at community hubs like the Burlington Community and Education Center, the local library, or pediatrician's offices. Always schedule in-person tours, observe interactions, and prepare a list of questions about daily routines, discipline policies, and emergency procedures.