The Best Daycare Centers in Elbert, CO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Elbert. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Elbert
The Goddard School of Parker
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Parker offers a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. Their play-based curriculum is developed by early childhood education experts and incorporates STEAM learning, language arts, and social development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes individualized learning plans and maintains low student-to-teacher ratios to ensure personalized attention.
Daycare Services:
Parker Montessori
Parker Montessori Preschool
Parker Montessori provides authentic Montessori education guided by AMI-trained teachers. The school offers a carefully prepared environment with specialized Montessori materials that encourage independence, concentration, and natural development. Their curriculum includes practical life skills, sensorial development, language, mathematics, cultural studies, and peace education. The facility features beautiful natural light classrooms, child-sized furniture, and peaceful outdoor environments. Teachers hold Montessori certifications and bachelor's degrees, with many having over a decade of experience. The school is known for its strong community atmosphere and individualized learning approach that respects each child's unique developmental timeline.
Daycare Services:
Parker Early Learning Academy
Parker Early Learning Academy
Parker Early Learning Academy offers a research-based curriculum that balances academic preparation with social-emotional development. Their program includes daily literacy activities, mathematics exploration, science discovery, and creative arts. The facility features secure keypad entry, video monitoring, modern classrooms with natural lighting, and multiple outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. All lead teachers hold early childhood education degrees or certifications, and the staff maintains CPR and first aid training. The academy emphasizes character development and community involvement, with regular family events and strong parent communication through a dedicated app. Their nutrition program provides healthy, balanced meals and snacks daily.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Elbert, CO
What types of licensed childcare options are available in Elbert, Colorado?
In Elbert, Colorado, licensed childcare options primarily consist of family childcare homes (FCH) due to the rural nature of the community. These are small, home-based programs typically caring for a limited number of children, offering a more intimate setting. There are fewer large childcare centers in Elbert itself, so many families also consider licensed providers in nearby towns like Elizabeth, Kiowa, or even the Parker/Castle Rock areas for center-based care. All providers must be licensed through the Colorado Office of Early Childhood, which ensures they meet state standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, and program activities. You can search the state's official online database to find and verify licensed providers in and around Elbert.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in Elbert, and how can I secure a spot?
Given the limited number of providers in Elbert, waitlists can be significant, often ranging from 3 to 9 months, especially for infant care. It's highly recommended to begin your search and get on multiple lists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. When contacting family childcare homes, be prepared to provide your needed start date, your child's age, and desired schedule. Many providers require a non-refundable deposit or registration fee to hold a spot. Being flexible with your start date or considering providers in surrounding communities can improve your chances of finding an opening sooner.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Elbert, CO?
Costs in Elbert are generally lower than in the Denver metro area but can vary based on the provider, the child's age, and hours. For a licensed family childcare home in Elbert, you can expect to pay an average of $800 to $1,200 per month for full-time care for a preschool-aged child. Infant and toddler care is typically more expensive, often ranging from $900 to $1,400 per month. These rates usually include meals and snacks. It's important to ask what is included in the tuition and about any additional fees for late pickup, registration, or supplies. Exploring the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP) can help determine if you qualify for financial support.
Are there any unique considerations for childcare in a rural area like Elbert, such as transportation or emergency preparedness?
Yes, rural childcare in Elbert comes with specific considerations. Transportation is a key factor; most providers do not offer pickup/dropoff services, so parents are responsible for commuting, which can involve driving on county roads. It's crucial to discuss the provider's emergency preparedness plan for scenarios like wildfires (common in the area), severe winter storms, or power outages. Ask about backup generators, evacuation plans, and communication protocols. Additionally, inquire about their policy on sick children, as the distance to a pediatrician or urgent care is greater than in urban settings. Many local providers are adept at handling these rural challenges and incorporate nature-based and outdoor play, which is a benefit of the setting.
What should I look for and ask about when touring a family childcare home in Elbert?
When touring a family childcare home in Elbert, go beyond the basics. First, verify their current Colorado license is posted. Ask about the provider's experience, training in CPR/First Aid, and their philosophy on discipline and learning. Inspect the indoor and outdoor play spaces for safety and engagement. Specifically for Elbert, ask about their daily routine for outdoor time and how they handle inclement weather or high winds. Inquire about their food policy—whether meals are provided and if they can accommodate dietary needs. Get clarity on their hours, holiday schedule, and sick policy for both the children and the provider. Finally, request references from current or former parents to get firsthand insights into their reliability and the care provided. Trusting your gut feeling about the home's environment is also very important.