The Best Daycare Centers in Henderson, CO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Henderson. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Henderson
Primrose School of North Thornton
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of North Thornton offers a balanced learning approach through their exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum, combining teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. The school features highly qualified early childhood educators with specialized training in developmental milestones. Facilities include secure, age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor learning environments, and modern safety systems with controlled access. Their approach emphasizes character development, literacy, and STEM concepts through hands-on learning. The school maintains low student-teacher ratios and provides nutritious meals prepared on-site. Parents consistently praise the structured yet nurturing environment and strong communication from staff.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Brighton
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Brighton implements the Goddard Learning Program, a play-based curriculum that fosters cognitive, social, and emotional development through structured learning centers. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the school maintains rigorous safety protocols including secured entry systems and comprehensive background checks. The facility features bright, well-equipped classrooms, multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups, and dedicated spaces for art, music, and movement. The school emphasizes individualized learning plans and regular progress updates for parents. Their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program incorporates yoga, mindfulness, and foreign language exposure.
Daycare Services:
Bright Horizons at Riverdale
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Riverdale employs the World at Their Fingertips® curriculum, which integrates emergent, project-based learning with developmentally appropriate practices. The center features NAEYC-accredited programs and teachers with advanced degrees in early childhood education. Safety is prioritized through state-of-the-art security systems, rigorous health protocols, and comprehensive staff training. The facility includes purpose-built learning environments with natural lighting, age-specific outdoor play areas, and dedicated spaces for STEAM activities. The center offers enrichment programs in literacy, mathematics, and social-emotional development, with detailed electronic daily reports sent to parents. Their approach emphasizes creating confident learners through hands-on exploration and individualized attention.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Henderson, CO
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Henderson, Colorado, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Henderson and throughout Colorado, all childcare facilities caring for two or more unrelated children must be licensed by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC). This includes family childcare homes, preschools, and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, and program activities. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the official "Colorado Shines" public search tool on the CDEC website. This database allows you to look up any licensed program, view its current license type, any history of violations, and its quality rating (Level 1-5). Always confirm a provider is actively licensed before enrolling your child.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Henderson, CO?
The cost of childcare in Henderson is generally aligned with the Denver metro area averages, which are among the highest in the state. For full-time care (approximately 40-50 hours per week), parents can expect to pay between $1,400 to $1,800 per month for infant care at a licensed center. Toddler care typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,600 per month. Family childcare homes may offer slightly lower rates, often between $1,000 and $1,400 monthly. Costs can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and its Colorado Shines rating. It's important to ask what is included in the tuition (e.g., meals, diapers, enrichment programs).
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Henderson, and what strategies can I use to secure a spot?
Yes, due to high demand and limited capacity, many quality daycare centers and preschools in the Henderson and broader Adams County area have significant waitlists, especially for infants and toddlers. It's not uncommon for waitlists to be 6 to 12 months long. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Apply to multiple preferred centers to get on several waitlists simultaneously. Maintain regular contact (e.g., a polite email every 2-3 months) to express continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in nearby neighborhoods, as they may have more immediate openings and offer a smaller setting.
What local resources or programs in Henderson can help me find and pay for quality childcare?
Henderson parents have several key local resources. The primary referral service is "Colorado Shines Child Care Referral," which you can access online or by calling 1-877-338-2273 for personalized searches based on location, hours, and child's age. For financial assistance, the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP) is administered by Adams County Human Services. Eligibility is based on income, work/training schedules, and family size. Additionally, many employers in the Denver Tech Center and surrounding areas offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). Some local centers may also offer sibling discounts or scholarships, so it's always worth inquiring directly.
How does the Colorado Shines quality rating system work, and why is it important when choosing a daycare in Henderson?
Colorado Shines is the state's quality rating and improvement system for licensed early childhood programs. Facilities are rated on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the highest. The rating evaluates several key areas: staff qualifications and training, the learning environment and curriculum, family partnerships, and leadership and management. A higher rating generally indicates a program that goes beyond minimum licensing standards to provide a richer, more supportive educational environment. When touring daycares in Henderson, always ask for their Colorado Shines rating. A Level 3, 4, or 5 program is often a marker of higher quality and commitment to professional development, which can be a significant factor in your child's early development and your peace of mind.