The Best Daycare Centers in Hartman, CO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Hartman. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Hartman
The Little Schoolhouse
Independent
The Little Schoolhouse is a highly-regarded early childhood education center serving the Southeast Colorado region, including Hartman. They offer a comprehensive curriculum focused on developmental milestones through play-based learning and structured activities. The center features Colorado Shines Level 4 rating, indicating high-quality educational standards. Their experienced staff includes early childhood certified teachers with specialized training in age-appropriate curriculum development. Facilities include secure indoor learning environments and safe outdoor play areas with age-appropriate equipment. The center emphasizes individualized learning plans, regular parent communication, and nutritional meal programs. Their safety protocols include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and ongoing staff training in emergency procedures.
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ABC Child Development Centers
ABC Child Development Centers
ABC Child Development Centers operates a well-established facility serving Hartman and surrounding communities with a research-based curriculum that balances academic preparation and social-emotional development. The center holds Colorado Shines Level 3 certification and features low teacher-to-child ratios with qualified early childhood educators. Their program includes STEM activities, literacy development, and creative arts integrated into daily learning. The facility includes modern classrooms, dedicated nap areas, and secure outdoor playgrounds. Safety measures include electronic check-in systems, comprehensive security cameras, and strict health protocols. Parents appreciate the regular progress updates, family engagement events, and flexible scheduling options for working families.
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La Junta Head Start
Southeast Colorado BOCES
La Junta Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education and family support services to families throughout Southeast Colorado, including Hartman residents. As a federally funded program, they offer high-quality early education with a focus on school readiness and family engagement. The program features Colorado Shines Level 4 rating and employs degreed early childhood educators with specialized training in child development. Their holistic approach includes health screenings, nutritional services, and family support coordination. The curriculum emphasizes literacy, math readiness, and social skills through evidence-based teaching methods. The center maintains excellent safety records with regular inspections, trained staff in CPR/first aid, and inclusive environments for children with special needs. Transportation services are available for eligible families in the Hartman area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Hartman, CO
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Hartman, Colorado, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Hartman, Colorado, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC). This includes family childcare homes (caring for up to 12 children) and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and staff qualifications. To verify a facility's license, you can use the official "Colorado Shines" public search tool on the CDEC website. This database not only confirms licensure but also shows a program's quality rating (Level 1-5), inspection reports, and any history of violations. It's the most reliable first step for any parent in Hartman researching childcare options.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Hartman, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Hartman and the surrounding rural areas of Colorado, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $1,100 to $1,400 per month, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging $950 to $1,200 per month. Costs can vary based on the type of facility (center vs. home-based) and its quality rating. For financial assistance, Colorado's Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP) is the primary resource, administered through the Lincoln County Department of Human Services. Eligibility is based on income, work, or school attendance. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships, and you can inquire about the Colorado Universal Preschool (UPK) program for 4-year-olds and some 3-year-olds, which provides free part-day programming.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Hartman, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to limited childcare options in a smaller community like Hartman, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant care. It is not uncommon for popular centers or highly-regarded home providers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. We strongly recommend that expecting parents or families planning a move begin their search as early as possible—ideally during the second trimester of pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before you need care. Contact multiple providers to get on their lists, and be prepared to check in periodically. Exploring providers in nearby towns like Limon or Hugo may also be necessary to find an opening.
What are the options for drop-in or part-time childcare in Hartman for occasional needs?
Structured drop-in or hourly childcare is very limited in Hartman due to its small size and licensing constraints that require pre-enrollment and consistent schedules. Your best options for occasional care are to network with other local parents for babysitter recommendations or to inquire with licensed family childcare homes if they have occasional flexibility for a known family. For more regular part-time care (e.g., 2-3 days a week), some home-based providers may accommodate this, but centers typically require full-time enrollment. For parents who travel to larger areas like Colorado Springs for work, investigating drop-in centers in those cities might be a more viable solution for true occasional needs.
Are there any unique considerations for childcare in Hartman related to its rural location, such as transportation or emergency preparedness?
Yes, Hartman's rural setting presents specific considerations. First, transportation is rarely provided by childcare providers, so parents must arrange all drop-off and pick-up. Second, inquire about a provider's emergency preparedness plans for severe weather (like blizzards or tornadoes common on the Eastern Plains) and extended power outages. They should have clear communication protocols and backup supplies. Third, given the agricultural surroundings, ask about their policies on outdoor play and safety regarding nearby fields, irrigation ditches, or farm equipment. Finally, the close-knit community can be a benefit; many providers have deep local roots and strong community connections, which can foster a supportive environment for your child.