The Best Daycare Centers in Erie, CO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Erie. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Erie
Primrose School of Erie
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Erie offers a nationally accredited Balanced Learning® approach that combines teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. Their research-based curriculum focuses on whole-child development with dedicated literacy, math, science, and social studies programs. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and certified teachers with early childhood education backgrounds. They emphasize character development and life skills through their exclusive Harmony & Heart® program, and provide nutritious meals prepared in their on-site kitchen. The center maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and uses a proprietary electronic daily communication system to keep parents informed.
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The Learning Experience - Lafayette
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Lafayette serves Erie families with their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates phonics, foreign language, manners, and fitness. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and comprehensive surveillance. Their programs include early literacy development, STEM activities, and social-emotional learning through character education. The facility includes multiple age-appropriate playgrounds, dedicated art and music rooms, and spacious classrooms with modern learning materials. All lead teachers hold early childhood credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. They offer flexible scheduling and provide all meals and snacks.
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Bright Horizons at Broomfield
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Broomfield provides premium early education with their World at Their Fingers® curriculum that emphasizes emergent, project-based learning. The center features enhanced safety protocols including secure check-in systems and comprehensive health screening. Their approach focuses on developing critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills through hands-on exploration. The facility includes natural outdoor classrooms, dedicated STEM labs, and literacy-rich environments. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing training in child development best practices. They offer enrichment programs in music, yoga, and gardening, and maintain strong parent partnerships through regular communication and family events.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Erie, CO
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Erie, CO, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Erie, CO, the cost of full-time daycare or preschool varies significantly based on the child's age, the type of facility (center-based vs. home-based), and the specific program's offerings. For infants, you can expect to pay between $1,600 and $2,200 per month. For toddlers and preschoolers, costs typically range from $1,300 to $1,800 per month. These rates are generally in line with the broader Boulder County area. For financial assistance, Colorado's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is the primary state-administered resource, with eligibility based on income, work, or school requirements. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships. It's also worth checking with the Town of Erie's Parks and Recreation Department, as they sometimes offer subsidized preschool programs or can direct you to local non-profit resources.
How long are waitlists for quality daycare centers in Erie, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists for highly-rated daycare centers and preschools in Erie can be lengthy, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for infant care, which has stricter staff-to-child ratios. Popular centers near new developments or with strong educational philosophies may have even longer waits. To improve your chances, start your search and get on lists as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy. Be proactive: contact multiple centers (including licensed family childcare homes), ask about their specific waitlist policies (e.g., if a deposit is required), and follow up periodically to express continued interest. Consider expanding your search to neighboring communities like Lafayette, Broomfield, or Longmont for more options. Many Erie parents also utilize local Facebook groups (e.g., "Erie, CO Moms & Dads") to get referrals and hear about unexpected openings.
What are Colorado's licensing requirements for childcare providers, and how can I verify a facility's compliance in Erie?
All childcare providers in Colorado caring for more than one unrelated family must be licensed by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC), formerly under the Department of Human Services. Key requirements include background checks for all staff, health and safety training (including CPR/First Aid), ongoing professional development, and meeting specific staff-to-child ratios based on age (e.g., 1:5 for infants). Facilities are also subject to unannounced annual inspections. To verify a provider's license and compliance history in Erie, you can use the official "Colorado Shines" public search tool online. This database shows a program's license status, any violations, and their quality rating (Level 1-5). You can also contact the CDEC's local office for the Boulder County region for additional information.
Are there unique childcare options in Erie that take advantage of the local community or environment?
Yes, Erie offers several childcare options that leverage its community assets and semi-rural environment. Many local programs emphasize outdoor play and nature-based learning, taking advantage of Erie's extensive trail system, parks, and open spaces. Some preschools incorporate farm-to-school concepts or have partnerships with local farms. The Town of Erie's Parks and Recreation Department operates preschool programs at the Erie Community Center that often include swim lessons in the facility's pool as part of the curriculum—a unique local perk. Additionally, with Erie's strong focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), several centers and preschools highlight STEM-based learning activities. For school-age children, there are also various after-school programs run through the St. Vrain Valley School District and local organizations that utilize school facilities and community parks.
What should I look for when touring a daycare facility in Erie, especially regarding safety and communication?
When touring a daycare in Erie, prioritize safety and communication. For safety, ask about their specific protocols for severe weather common to Colorado, such as tornadoes or heavy snow, and their emergency evacuation plans. Check that outdoor play areas are fully fenced and secure. Inquire about their sick child policy and daily health screenings, especially post-pandemic. Regarding communication, ask how they provide daily updates (many use apps like Tadpoles or Brightwheel), their policy for contacting parents during the day, and how they handle developmental progress reports. Observe how staff interact with children—are they engaged and responsive? Finally, given Erie's growth, ask about their staff turnover rate; consistent caregivers are crucial for a child's development. Don't hesitate to ask for references from current Erie parents.