The Best Daycare Centers in Colorado Springs, CO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Colorado Springs. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Colorado Springs
Primrose School of North Colorado Springs
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of North Colorado Springs offers the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach, blending teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a focus on character development and academics. The curriculum includes literacy, math, science, social studies, and creative arts, delivered by degreed teachers in purpose-built classrooms. Features include secure keypad entry, outdoor learning environments, and nutritionally balanced meals. The school emphasizes partnership with parents through regular communication and developmental updates.
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The Goddard School of Colorado Springs
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School utilizes the F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program, a play-based curriculum that promotes social, emotional, and academic development. Certified teachers implement STEAM learning, language arts, and hands-on activities in modern, secure facilities. The school features age-appropriate playgrounds, enhanced security systems, and webcam access for parents. Daily lesson plans focus on school readiness while maintaining low student-to-teacher ratios for individualized attention.
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La Petite Academy of Colorado Springs
La Petite Academy
La Petite Academy provides comprehensive early education through their Links to Learning® curriculum, focusing on literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts. The program emphasizes school readiness with structured learning centers and developmental assessments. Facilities include secure entry systems, age-separated playgrounds, and dedicated learning spaces. Experienced teachers hold early childhood credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The center offers flexible scheduling and maintains strong parent partnerships through regular progress reports and communication.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Colorado Springs, CO
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Colorado Springs, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Colorado Springs, all childcare centers and family childcare homes must be licensed by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC). Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, and child-to-staff ratios. You can verify a provider's license status, view any history of violations, and read inspection reports through the official "Colorado Shines" quality rating system website. This public portal is an essential tool for parents to research and compare licensed providers in El Paso County. Always confirm a facility is currently licensed before enrolling your child.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Colorado Springs?
The cost of childcare in Colorado Springs varies by the child's age, type of care, and specific location, but it is generally lower than in Denver. On average, parents can expect to pay between $1,200 to $1,600 per month for full-time infant care at a licensed center. Toddler care typically ranges from $1,000 to $1,400 monthly. Family childcare homes often offer slightly lower rates. It's important to note that costs in newer developments or on the north side of the city may be higher. Many Colorado Springs providers participate in the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP) for qualifying families.
How long are daycare waitlists typically in Colorado Springs, and when should I start looking for care?
Waitlists for high-quality, licensed daycare centers in popular areas of Colorado Springs (like Briargate, Stetson Hills, or near major employers like Fort Carson and Peterson Space Force Base) can be substantial, often 6 to 12 months for infant spots. It is strongly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible, ideally during your second trimester of pregnancy. For toddler or preschool openings, 3-6 month waitlists are common. Be proactive, get on multiple lists, and follow up regularly. Many military-affiliated families utilize the on-base Child Development Centers, which also have significant demand.
Are there specific childcare resources or referral services for military families stationed in Colorado Springs?
Yes, Colorado Springs, home to Fort Carson, Peterson SFB, Schriever SFB, and the US Air Force Academy, has robust resources for military families. The primary resource is Child Care Aware of America, which works with the Department of Defense to offer fee assistance and referrals. Locally, you can contact the **Military Child Care (MCC)** website to search for on-base Child Development Centers (CDCs) and FCC (Family Child Care) homes, which offer priority to military families. Additionally, the **Pikes Peak United Way's 2-1-1** service can provide referrals to community childcare providers familiar with the unique needs of military families, such as flexible hours for shift work.
What outdoor and enrichment opportunities should I look for in a Colorado Springs daycare, given our local climate and geography?
Given Colorado Springs' high-altitude, sunny climate with over 300 days of sunshine a year and proximity to nature, look for daycares that prioritize safe, daily outdoor play. A quality program should have shaded play areas, sun safety protocols (hats/sunscreen), and age-appropriate equipment. Enrichment programs that leverage local culture are a plus, such as activities related to Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, or local wildlife. Some centers incorporate simple hiking or "nature school" elements. Also, inquire about their policy for "snow days" or poor air quality days (due to nearby wildfires), as they should have structured indoor gross motor alternatives for when the playground is inaccessible.
Childcare Insights for Colorado Springs
Finding quality, affordable childcare can feel like one of the most daunting tasks for a parent. In Colorado Springs, with its growing population and diverse military and civilian communities, the search for low-cost daycare is a common concern. The good news is that with some strategic planning and knowledge of local resources, securing reliable and affordable care for your little one is entirely possible.
Your first step should be to explore the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP). This state-funded program provides financial assistance to low-income families, those in training programs, or parents seeking employment. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care. You can apply through the El Paso County Department of Human Services. Even if you're unsure about qualifying, it's worth an inquiry, as this program can significantly reduce your weekly co-pay, making many local daycare centers and licensed home providers much more accessible.
Beyond state assistance, consider the network of licensed family childcare homes scattered throughout Colorado Springs neighborhoods, from the northeast side to the Broadmoor area. These smaller, home-based settings often have lower overhead than large centers, which can translate to more affordable rates. They also frequently offer more flexible hours, which can be a lifesaver for parents with non-traditional work schedules at Fort Carson or in the service industry. Be sure to verify any provider's license through the Colorado Office of Early Childhood's online database; this ensures they meet health, safety, and training standards.
Another valuable local resource is the community of faith-based daycare centers. Many churches in Colorado Springs operate preschools and daycares that prioritize serving their congregations and the wider community, often at a reduced cost compared to for-profit centers. While some may incorporate religious teachings, others simply use the space and operate as a non-profit service. It’s a good idea to call a few in your area to inquire about their rates and any potential scholarships or sliding scale fees they might offer.
When you begin touring facilities, don't hesitate to ask direct questions about cost-saving opportunities. Some centers in the Springs offer discounts for siblings, for military families, for paying tuition monthly in advance, or for employees of certain local companies. Furthermore, expanding your search to include registered neighborhood nanny-shares can be a creative solution. By teaming up with one or two other families in your community, you can share the cost of a caregiver, often getting more personalized attention for your child at a competitive rate. Remember, "low-cost" should never mean compromising on safety or quality. Trust your instincts, check references thoroughly, and look for caregivers who provide a warm, stimulating environment where your child can thrive. With patience and by tapping into the specific programs Colorado Springs has to offer, you can find a childcare solution that brings peace of mind to your family.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Colorado Springs: