The Best Daycare Centers in Evans, CO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Evans. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Evans
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center provides comprehensive early childhood education with a play-based learning approach that balances structured curriculum with creative exploration. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, certified early childhood educators, and a security-coded entry system for enhanced safety. Their curriculum focuses on social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM activities through hands-on learning. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, bright classrooms with natural lighting, and a nutritious meal program. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, clean environment, and strong communication about child development progress.
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Primrose School of Greeley
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Greeley offers a nationally-recognized Balanced Learning curriculum that combines teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. The center employs degreed teachers who implement research-based approaches to early childhood development, including character development and life skills. Features include secure entry systems, camera monitoring, dedicated music and art rooms, and age-appropriate outdoor learning environments. The school emphasizes literacy development, problem-solving skills, and social competence through their exclusive Harmony & Heart® music program and proprietary literacy curriculum.
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The Goddard School of Greeley
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Greeley provides a play-based F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that promotes academic, social, and emotional development. The school features state-licensed teachers with ongoing professional development, secure keypad entry, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their STEAM-focused curriculum includes robotics, coding, and scientific exploration tailored to each age group. The facility offers multiple playgrounds, interactive smart boards, and dedicated learning centers for art, music, and dramatic play. Parents appreciate the detailed daily reports, inclusive environment, and focus on preparing children for elementary school success.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Evans, CO
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Evans, Colorado, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Evans, the cost of full-time daycare varies significantly based on the child's age and the type of facility. For an infant, you can expect to pay between $1,200 to $1,600 per month at a licensed center. For toddlers and preschoolers, costs typically range from $900 to $1,300 per month. Home-based daycare is often more affordable, ranging from $700 to $1,100 monthly. Colorado offers several financial assistance programs. Locally, you can apply for the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP) through the Weld County Department of Human Services. Additionally, many local providers participate in the Colorado Universal Preschool (UPK) program, which offers free part-day preschool for 4-year-olds and some 3-year-olds, which can significantly reduce costs when combined with wraparound daycare.
How long are waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Evans, and what can I do to secure a spot sooner?
Waitlists in Evans can be lengthy, especially for infant care at highly-rated centers, often ranging from 6 to 12 months. For toddler and preschool spots, waitlists are typically shorter, around 3 to 6 months. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy if possible. Be proactive by contacting multiple providers, including both centers and licensed family childcare homes in Evans and nearby Greeley. Get on multiple waitlists, even if there's a small fee. Follow up with providers every 4-6 weeks to express continued interest. Consider flexible start dates, and explore home-based providers, which often have shorter wait times. Utilizing local resources like the "Qualistar Colorado" website or the "Child Care Resource and Referral" service for Weld County can help you identify available options.
What are the key differences between a licensed childcare center and a licensed family childcare home in Evans, and how do I verify their licensing status?
In Evans, licensed childcare centers are larger facilities, often with multiple classrooms, structured curricula, and multiple staff. They typically have stricter staff-to-child ratios set by the State of Colorado (e.g., 1:5 for infants). Licensed family childcare homes operate out of a provider's residence, offering a smaller, home-like environment with mixed-age groups and often more flexible hours. State ratios for a home are generally 1:6, including the provider's own children under a certain age. To verify licensing for any provider, you must use the official "Colorado Shines" portal. This state-run system provides detailed licensing history, inspection reports, complaint summaries, and quality rating information (Level 1-5). Always confirm a provider is "licensed," not just "registered," for the highest level of oversight.
Are there any unique outdoor or enrichment programs offered by daycares in Evans that take advantage of the local environment?
Yes, many Evans daycares incorporate the local High Plains environment and nearby recreational opportunities into their programs. It's common to find centers with large, shaded playgrounds designed for the variable Colorado weather. Some providers offer structured outdoor learning time, gardening programs to teach about local agriculture (reflecting Weld County's farming community), and nature walks in local parks like Riverside or Bittersweet Park. Given the proximity to the Rocky Mountains, some programs may incorporate themes about Colorado wildlife and ecosystems. Enrichment activities like introductory Spanish, music and movement, and STEM programs are also popular. When touring, ask specifically about their outdoor play policy and any partnerships with local organizations like the Evans Community Museum or the Greeley Recreation Center for special activities.
What should I look for during a daycare tour in Evans, and are there any local red flags specific to this area?
During a tour in Evans, observe the cleanliness and safety of the facility, staff-child interactions, and the overall mood of the children. Ask about staff qualifications, turnover rates, and their emergency procedures for severe Colorado weather (like tornadoes or sudden snowstorms). A major local red flag is a provider not being able to show you their current Colorado Shines license or a recent health/fire inspection certificate. Also, be wary of facilities with minimal outdoor space that isn't adequately shaded or fenced, given Evans' sunny and windy climate. Inquire about their water safety policy if they have any water features, given the proximity to the South Platte River and irrigation ditches. Finally, check for clear communication policies and ask how they handle issues like the poor air quality that can occasionally occur from regional agricultural or industrial activities.