The Best Daycare Centers in Greeley, CO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Greeley. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Greeley
Primrose School of Greeley at St. Michaels
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Greeley offers a balanced learning approach through their exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The school features age-appropriate learning environments, secure entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The facility includes dedicated infant rooms with individualized care plans, outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups, and enrichment programs in music, art, and physical development. Parents consistently praise the school's communication, structured curriculum, and nurturing environment that promotes social-emotional development alongside academic readiness.
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The Goddard School of Greeley
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Greeley provides a play-based learning environment through their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that encourages children to develop cognitive, social, and physical skills through exploration. The school features secure keypad entry, live streaming for parents, and comprehensive health and safety protocols. All lead teachers have degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the curriculum includes STEAM learning, language development, and social skills. The facility includes multiple age-specific classrooms, indoor gymnasium, and outdoor playgrounds with natural elements. Parents highlight the school's excellent communication, engaging curriculum, and the way children develop confidence and independence while receiving individualized attention.
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Windsor Charter Academy Elementary - Early Childhood Center
Windsor Charter Academy
Windsor Charter Academy's Early Childhood Center serves families in the Greeley area with a comprehensive Core Knowledge curriculum that provides strong academic foundations while emphasizing character development. The center features small class sizes, certified early childhood teachers, and a structured learning environment that prepares children for elementary school. Safety measures include secure campus entry, visitor screening procedures, and comprehensive emergency protocols. The program focuses on literacy development, mathematical thinking, and social skills through hands-on learning activities. Parents appreciate the academic rigor, qualified teaching staff, and seamless transition to the elementary program, with many noting significant developmental progress in their children's communication and learning readiness skills.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Greeley, CO
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Greeley, Colorado?
In Greeley, the cost of childcare varies significantly based on the child's age, the type of facility, and the specific program. For an infant in a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $1,200 and $1,600 per month. For toddlers, costs typically range from $1,000 to $1,400 monthly. Preschool programs for 3-5 year-olds are often slightly less, averaging $800 to $1,200 per month. Home-based family childcare providers in Weld County often offer more affordable rates, sometimes 10-20% lower than centers. It's important to note that costs have been rising, and many facilities have waiting lists, so budgeting and planning ahead are crucial. Parents should also explore financial assistance options like the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP), which is administered locally through the Weld County Department of Human Services.
How do I verify a daycare is properly licensed and check its compliance history in Colorado?
All childcare providers in Colorado caring for more than one unrelated child must be licensed by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC). To verify a provider in Greeley, use the official "Colorado Shines" public search tool online. This database allows you to search by provider name, location, or type and view their current license status, capacity, and age ranges served. Most importantly, you can review the provider's compliance history, including any substantiated complaints, licensing violations, and the results of their quality ratings (Levels 1-5 in the Colorado Shines system). You can also contact the local CDEC Office for the Northeast Region for additional information. Always visit a facility in person and ask to see their current license certificate.
Are there any unique local resources or programs in Greeley to help parents find and afford childcare?
Yes, Greeley and Weld County offer several local resources. A primary hub is the "Qualistar Colorado" referral service, which partners with local agencies to provide a free, personalized search for licensed childcare. The "Greeley-Evans School District 6" offers state-funded Colorado Universal Preschool (UPK) programs for 4-year-olds at various locations, which can provide 15-30 hours of free preschool per week. For financial aid, the Weld County Department of Human Services administers the CCCAP program for income-eligible families. Additionally, organizations like the United Way of Weld County and "The Success Foundation Serving Greeley-Evans Schools" may have information on scholarships or sliding-scale programs. The City of Greeley's Recreation Division also offers school-break camps and part-time preschool options.
What is the average waitlist time for infant care at daycare centers in Greeley, and how can I improve my chances of securing a spot?
Due to high demand and limited infant slots (strict staff-to-child ratios make these spots the most scarce), waitlists for infant care in Greeley can be exceptionally long. It is common for parents to encounter waitlists of 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer for the most sought-after centers. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy. Get on multiple waitlists (even for facilities that are your second or third choice) and understand each center's policy—some require a non-refundable deposit to hold a spot. Consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes, which may have shorter wait times and offer a smaller group setting. Be proactive and follow up with centers every few months to confirm your spot on the list.
How does Greeley's agricultural and university community influence local childcare options?
Greeley's dual identity as an agricultural hub and a college town (home to the University of Northern Colorado - UNC) creates a distinctive childcare landscape. The agricultural cycle can influence demand, with some families needing seasonal or non-traditional hours, which some family childcare providers may accommodate. The presence of UNC significantly impacts availability and philosophy. The university operates its own highly-regarded, lab-based Early Childhood Education center, which often has a very long waitlist but provides a model training site. Many students in education and psychology fields seek part-time work or internships at local daycares, which can affect staff turnover but also inject fresh, research-based practices. Furthermore, student-parents at UNC have access to specific childcare resources and referrals through the university's student services.