The Best Daycare Centers in Firestone, CO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Firestone. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Firestone
Primrose School of Firestone
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Firestone offers a nationally accredited Balanced Learning® approach that combines teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. Their curriculum focuses on character development, literacy, math, science, and social studies through hands-on learning experiences. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning spaces. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes partnership with families through regular communication and parent resources, with nutritious meals and snacks provided daily.
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The Goddard School of Firestone
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Firestone provides a play-based learning environment with F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that promotes social, emotional, and academic development. Their STEAM-focused curriculum includes science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics activities. The center features secure keypad entry, indoor gymnasium, and outdoor play areas with safety surfaces. All lead teachers have early childhood education degrees or certifications, and the school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios. Parents receive daily updates through the proprietary mobile app and benefit from flexible scheduling options.
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La Petite Academy of Firestone
La Petite Academy
La Petite Academy of Firestone offers a comprehensive early education program with a research-based curriculum that includes literacy development, mathematics, and social-emotional learning. The center features secure entry systems, classroom webcams for parent viewing, and age-specific learning centers. Their Grow Fit® initiative promotes healthy nutrition and physical activity. Teachers participate in ongoing professional development and many hold early childhood education degrees. The academy provides flexible scheduling, including full-time and part-time options, with extended hours to accommodate working families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Firestone, CO
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Firestone, CO?
In Firestone, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For infants (under 18 months), you can expect to pay between $1,400 and $1,800 per month at a licensed childcare center. For toddlers (18 months to 3 years), monthly rates typically range from $1,200 to $1,600. Home-based daycare providers (licensed family childcare homes) often offer slightly lower rates, generally between $1,000 and $1,400 per month for full-time care. These costs are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, and facility amenities. It's important to note that costs in the broader Northern Colorado region, including Firestone, have been rising, so early budgeting and inquiring about potential annual increases is recommended.
How long are waitlists for quality daycare centers in Firestone, and how can I secure a spot?
Waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Firestone can be significant, especially for infant rooms. It's common to encounter waitlists of 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer for highly sought-after centers. To secure a spot, parents are advised to begin their search and get on multiple lists during pregnancy or as soon as they know they will need care. When contacting centers, ask specific questions: their current waitlist length, if there's a fee to be on the list (typically $25-$75, often non-refundable), how often they update families, and if they offer priority for siblings. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in your Firestone neighborhood, as they may have more immediate openings and shorter lists.
What are Colorado's licensing requirements for daycare providers, and how can I verify a provider's compliance in Firestone?
All childcare providers in Firestone must be licensed by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC), unless they are legally exempt (like caring for children from only one other family). Key licensing requirements include background checks for all staff, health and safety training (including CPR/First Aid), ongoing professional development, adherence to strict staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:5 for infants), and regular facility inspections. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the official "Colorado Shines" website and directory. This public tool allows you to search for providers in Firestone by name or zip code, view their license status, inspection reports, and any substantiated complaints. Always choose a licensed provider to ensure minimum health, safety, and quality standards are met.
Are there any local resources or programs in Firestone to help parents find and afford childcare?
Yes, there are several key local resources. For finding care, the "Colorado Shines" directory is the primary tool. For financial assistance, the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP) helps income-eligible families pay for childcare; applications are processed through the Weld County Department of Human Services, which serves Firestone. Additionally, many employers in the Northern Colorado corridor offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). The Town of Firestone itself may also share community resources through its Parks, Recreation, & Culture department or website, which sometimes lists local preschool programs or childcare partnerships. For school-age care, check with the St. Vrain Valley School District for before-and-after-school programs at elementary schools in the Firestone area.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare facility in Firestone?
When touring a daycare in Firestone, go beyond the basics. First, observe the cleanliness, safety (outlet covers, secure gates, fenced playgrounds), and overall atmosphere—are the children engaged and happy? Ask about staff qualifications, tenure (low turnover is a good sign), and the daily schedule. Given Colorado's weather, inquire about their policy for outdoor play and their indoor gross motor space for active days. Specifically ask about their emergency preparedness plans for situations like wildfires or severe storms, which are relevant to our region. Notice how staff interact with children—are they at eye level, speaking kindly? Finally, trust your instincts about the vibe of the place and ask for references from current parents. A quality center will be transparent and welcome your detailed questions.