The Best Daycare Centers in Fort Morgan, CO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Fort Morgan. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Fort Morgan
KinderCare at Fort Morgan
KinderCare Education
KinderCare at Fort Morgan provides a research-based curriculum focused on early literacy, mathematics, and social-emotional development. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials and maintains low student-teacher ratios. Safety protocols include secured entry systems, regular health inspections, and comprehensive background checks for all staff. The facility offers age-appropriate learning environments with dedicated infant rooms, toddler spaces, and preschool classrooms equipped with modern educational materials. Parent communication includes daily updates and regular progress reports. The center stands out for its structured learning approach combined with play-based activities and nutritious meal programs.
Daycare Services:
Fort Morgan Child Development Center
Independent Non-Profit
Fort Morgan Child Development Center emphasizes a play-based learning approach that fosters creativity, problem-solving, and social skills. The center employs experienced early childhood educators with certifications in child development and maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios. Safety is prioritized through monitored access, emergency preparedness drills, and sanitization protocols. The facility features bright, spacious classrooms, outdoor play areas, and developmentally appropriate learning centers. The curriculum includes literacy enrichment, STEM activities, and cultural diversity programs. Parent involvement is encouraged through regular events and communication portals. This center is particularly noted for its inclusive environment and strong community connections.
Daycare Services:
Brush Child Development Center
City of Brush
Located in nearby Brush (approximately 10 miles from Fort Morgan), Brush Child Development Center serves families throughout Morgan County with a comprehensive early childhood program. The center utilizes a balanced curriculum blending structured academic preparation with hands-on learning experiences. Staff members hold degrees in early childhood education and participate in ongoing professional development. The facility includes secure indoor environments, age-specific playgrounds, and nutritionally balanced meal services. Safety measures include video monitoring, strict pickup procedures, and health screening protocols. The center distinguishes itself through its strong focus on school readiness skills and flexible scheduling options for working families.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Fort Morgan, CO
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Fort Morgan, CO, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Fort Morgan, the cost of full-time childcare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For infants and toddlers, you can expect to pay approximately $800 to $1,100 per month. Preschool-aged children typically cost between $650 and $900 per month. These rates are generally lower than in larger Front Range cities but are a significant portion of a local family's budget. For financial assistance, the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP) is administered locally through the Morgan County Department of Human Services. Eligibility is based on income, work, or training requirements. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How can I verify if a daycare or childcare home in Fort Morgan is properly licensed and check its compliance history?
All licensed childcare providers in Colorado are regulated by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC). You can use the official "Colorado Shines" website and provider search tool to look up any licensed center or family childcare home in Fort Morgan. This public portal provides the provider's license status, capacity, ages served, and any results from their quality ratings (Levels 1-5). Most importantly, it includes a history of compliance reports, detailing any licensing violations, complaints, or corrective actions. You can also contact the local CDEC office for the Northeast region for additional verification. Always choose a licensed provider to ensure basic health, safety, and training standards are met.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Fort Morgan, and how far in advance should I start looking for infant care?
Yes, waitlists are very common, especially for infant care slots, which have stricter staff-to-child ratios. In Fort Morgan, the limited number of childcare centers means high demand for a small number of infant spots. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin their search and get on waitlists during the second trimester of pregnancy, or at least 6-9 months before their needed start date. For toddler or preschool openings, seeking care 3-6 months in advance is advisable. Be proactive: contact multiple providers, ask specific questions about their waitlist process (e.g., if there's a fee, how often they update you), and stay in touch periodically to express continued interest.
What are my options for non-traditional hour childcare (evenings, weekends, or overnight) in the Fort Morgan area?
Options for non-traditional hour care in Fort Morgan are extremely limited, as most licensed centers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM schedule. Your best chance is to seek a licensed family childcare home (FCCH), as some individual providers may offer more flexible hours to accommodate parents working in healthcare, manufacturing, or agriculture—key local industries. You will need to inquire directly with each FCCH. Another option is to explore registered but unlicensed "kinship" care with a trusted friend or relative, or use online caregiver-matching services, though these are not regulated. Planning for this need well in advance is crucial due to the scarcity of options.
What resources are available in Fort Morgan to help me evaluate and choose a high-quality childcare program?
Beyond checking licensing on Colorado Shines, you have several local resources. First, the "Quality Improvement" specialists from the Northeast Colorado Health Department often work with local providers and can offer guidance. Second, the "Bright by Text" program, promoted by local family resource centers, sends free tips on child development and choosing care directly to your phone. Third, schedule in-person tours and visits—this is essential. Ask providers about their curriculum, staff qualifications and turnover, discipline policies, and emergency procedures. Observe how staff interact with children. Finally, talk to other parents in the community; personal recommendations are invaluable in a smaller city like Fort Morgan. The Family Resource Center at the Morgan County School District may also have updated provider lists and advice.