The Best Daycare Centers in Eastlake, CO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Eastlake. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Eastlake
The Goddard School of Thornton
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Thornton provides a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Their curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and creative arts delivered by qualified teachers with early childhood education degrees. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, modern classrooms. They emphasize individualized learning plans, regular parent communication through daily reports, and a play-based approach that fosters curiosity and critical thinking skills.
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Primrose School of North Thornton
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of North Thornton offers the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. Their research-based curriculum includes character development, literacy, math, and science programs. The school features secure facilities with keypad entry, outdoor learning environments, and dedicated music and art spaces. Teachers maintain low student-to-teacher ratios and hold early childhood credentials. Parents receive regular updates through the Primrose Schools app, including photos and developmental milestones. The school is known for its structured yet nurturing environment that prepares children for academic success.
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The Learning Experience - Thornton
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Thornton features the proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates phonics, foreign language, manners, and fitness. Their early childhood education program includes interactive learning stations, hands-on activities, and technology-enhanced classrooms. The center maintains high safety standards with secured entrances, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. Qualified early childhood educators provide individualized attention with small class sizes. The facility includes age-specific playgrounds, indoor gymnasiums, and dedicated learning centers for different developmental stages. Parents appreciate the consistent communication and visible learning outcomes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Eastlake, CO
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Eastlake, Colorado, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Eastlake, Colorado, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC). This includes family child care homes, preschools, and child care centers. Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training in CPR/First Aid), and facility safety. To verify a provider's license and view any history of violations, you can use the official "Colorado Shines" quality rating and improvement system website or the CDEC's online licensing lookup tool. It's highly recommended to choose a provider participating in Colorado Shines, as they undergo a more rigorous quality assessment.
What is the average cost of full-time infant and toddler daycare in Eastlake, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
The cost of childcare in the Denver metropolitan area, which includes Eastlake, is among the highest in the state. For full-time care, parents can expect to pay an average of $1,600 to $2,200 per month for an infant and $1,400 to $1,900 per month for a toddler at a licensed center. Family child care homes may be slightly less expensive. To help with these costs, Colorado offers the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP), which provides subsidies to eligible low- and middle-income families. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (work, school, etc.). You can apply through the Adams County Human Services Department, which serves the Eastlake area.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Eastlake, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, waitlists at quality daycare centers and preschools in Eastlake and the surrounding north Denver metro area can be significant. It is not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer for infant rooms. To secure a spot, parents are advised to begin touring facilities and getting on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during the second trimester of pregnancy for infant care, or at least 9-12 months before the desired start date for toddler or preschool care. Be sure to ask about waitlist fees and policies for maintaining your spot.
What are the main types of childcare options available specifically in Eastlake, CO?
Eastlake parents have several licensed childcare options to consider. These include: 1) **Child Care Centers**: Larger facilities, often with structured curricula and multiple classrooms (e.g., The Goddard School, Primrose School). 2) **Preschools**: Typically offer part-day programs focused on early education for ages 3-5. 3) **Family Child Care Homes**: Licensed care provided in a provider's residence, often offering a smaller, home-like setting. 4) **In-Home Nannies or Au Pairs**: A private arrangement requiring careful vetting. Eastlake's community design includes several planned neighborhoods with centers, but many parents also look at options in nearby Commerce City, Thornton, and Northglenn for more choices.
Are there any unique local resources or parks that daycare providers in Eastlake utilize for outdoor play and activities?
Yes, Eastlake's community planning emphasizes parks and open spaces, which many local daycares incorporate into their programs. A key resource is the **Eastlake Recreation Center**, which has pools and activity rooms that some providers may use for scheduled swim lessons or indoor play. The extensive trail system around the nearby **Barr Lake State Park** and local neighborhood parks like **Eastlake Park** provide excellent opportunities for nature walks, outdoor play, and learning activities. When touring a daycare, ask about their daily outdoor play policy and how they utilize these community assets. Colorado's generally sunny weather allows for frequent outdoor time, so a provider's philosophy and safety protocols for outdoor activities are important to consider.