The Best Daycare Centers in Evergreen, CO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Evergreen. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Evergreen
Mountain Sprouts Early Learning Center
Independent
Mountain Sprouts offers a nature-inspired, play-based curriculum that embraces the mountain environment. Their educational approach focuses on outdoor exploration, environmental stewardship, and hands-on learning. Certified teachers implement developmentally appropriate practices with low student-teacher ratios. The center features secure indoor learning spaces and extensive outdoor play areas designed to connect children with nature. They emphasize social-emotional development, creativity, and building foundational academic skills through exploration and discovery. The center is known for its experienced staff, personalized attention, and strong community connections.
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The Goddard School of Evergreen
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School provides a nationally recognized F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic preparation with social development and citizenship. Their play-based curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. All teachers meet or exceed state qualifications and receive ongoing professional development. The facility features secure access, age-appropriate classrooms, and dedicated playgrounds. The school emphasizes individualized learning plans, regular parent communication through a proprietary app, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their program prepares children for elementary school while fostering independence and confidence.
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Mountain Phoenix Community School
Independent
While located in nearby Lakewood, Mountain Phoenix Community School serves many Evergreen families and offers a unique Waldorf-inspired education. Their early childhood program emphasizes imaginative play, artistic activities, and nature immersion in a rhythmical, home-like environment. The curriculum focuses on developing the whole child—head, heart, and hands—through practical activities, storytelling, and outdoor exploration. Certified Waldorf teachers provide developmentally appropriate learning experiences that build social skills, creativity, and foundational abilities. The school features natural materials, beautiful classrooms, and extensive outdoor spaces. Parents appreciate the nurturing environment, strong community values, and holistic approach to child development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Evergreen, CO
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Evergreen, CO, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Evergreen, full-time daycare or preschool for an infant or toddler typically ranges from $1,400 to $1,900 per month, while preschool for ages 3-5 can range from $1,000 to $1,500 per month. These costs reflect the mountain community's higher cost of living and often include features like outdoor-focused curricula. For financial assistance, Colorado's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is available for qualifying families, administered through Jefferson County. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships. It's also worth inquiring directly with providers like the Evergreen Children's Corner or Mountain Shadows Preschool about any specific local aid or sibling discounts.
How long are waitlists for licensed childcare centers in Evergreen, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists for licensed centers and highly-regarded home-based providers in Evergreen can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 18 months, especially for infant care. This is due to high demand and limited slots in this semi-rural community. To secure a spot, parents are advised to get on multiple waitlists as early as possible, even during pregnancy. Maintain regular contact (e.g., a polite email every few months) to show continued interest. Also, consider exploring licensed family childcare homes in surrounding areas like Conifer or Kittredge, which may have shorter lists. Flexibility on start dates can also improve your chances.
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Evergreen, and how can I verify a provider's compliance?
All childcare providers in Evergreen must be licensed by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC), which sets standards for staff-to-child ratios, health and safety protocols, staff qualifications (including background checks and training), and facility safety. You can verify a provider's license status, view any history of complaints, and see their inspection reports through the official "Colorado Shines" quality rating system website. This public database is an essential tool for parents. Additionally, many Evergreen providers participate in the voluntary Colorado Shines rating system (Levels 1-5), which offers further insight into their quality beyond basic licensing.
Are there childcare options in Evergreen that emphasize outdoor and nature-based learning?
Yes, this is a hallmark of many Evergreen childcare programs, leveraging the natural mountain environment. Several centers and preschools incorporate daily outdoor exploration, forest school principles, and nature-based curricula into their programs. Providers like Evergreen Forest School and various nature-focused preschools offer significant outdoor time in all weather, focusing on environmental education and physical activity. When touring facilities, ask about their outdoor philosophy, the ratio of indoor/outdoor time, and their safety protocols for mountain terrain and wildlife. This focus is a major draw for families seeking an alternative to traditional indoor classroom settings.
What backup or emergency childcare resources are available for parents in Evergreen when regular care is unavailable?
Given Evergreen's relative isolation and frequent weather-related closures, having a backup plan is crucial. Formal drop-in or emergency daycare centers are limited. Your best resources are local parenting networks like the "Evergreen, CO Moms" Facebook group, where parents often share last-minute babysitter recommendations or swap care. Some licensed family childcare homes may offer occasional drop-in slots if pre-arranged. For planned needs, consider registering with a reputable nanny agency serving the foothills that can provide temporary in-home care. Building a network with other local parents for mutual aid is often the most reliable emergency solution in this community.