The Best Daycare Centers in Howard, CO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Howard. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Howard
Little Schoolhouse Preschool
Independent
Little Schoolhouse Preschool is a highly-regarded local facility serving the Howard community with a play-based educational approach that emphasizes social-emotional development and school readiness. The center features small class sizes with low student-teacher ratios, certified early childhood educators, and a comprehensive curriculum that includes literacy development, math concepts, and creative arts. Their safe, nurturing environment includes both indoor learning centers and outdoor play areas designed to encourage exploration and development. Parents consistently praise the individualized attention, strong communication, and the center's commitment to creating a family-like atmosphere where children thrive.
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First Step Preschool
Independent
Located in nearby Salida (approximately 15 miles from Howard), First Step Preschool serves families throughout Chaffee County with a comprehensive early childhood program. The center employs state-certified teachers and follows a research-based curriculum that balances structured learning with child-directed activities. Their facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor playgrounds, and dedicated spaces for different developmental stages. The center is known for its strong emphasis on literacy development, STEM activities, and social skills building. Safety protocols include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and regular safety drills.
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Columbine Christian Preschool
Independent
Columbine Christian Preschool in Salida serves the broader region including Howard families, offering a faith-based educational environment combined with strong academic preparation. The program focuses on whole-child development through a balanced approach of structured learning centers, creative play, and character education. Their experienced teaching staff holds early childhood credentials and maintains low student-teacher ratios to ensure personalized attention. The curriculum incorporates phonics-based reading readiness, early math concepts, science exploration, and fine motor skill development. The center features modern, well-maintained facilities with secure outdoor play areas and age-appropriate learning materials.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Howard, CO
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Howard, CO, and how can I verify a provider's status?
In Howard, Colorado, all childcare providers caring for more than one unrelated family must be licensed by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC). This includes family child care homes, child care centers, and preschools. Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, and program quality. To verify a provider's license, you can use the official "Colorado Shines" search tool on the CDEC website. This database shows a provider's license status, any history of violations, and their quality rating (Level 1-5). For very small, informal care (like a neighbor watching one other child), licensing may not be required, so it's crucial to ask about their compliance with state regulations.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers or in-home providers in the Howard area, and how should I plan ahead?
Due to Howard's small, rural nature and limited number of providers, waitlists can be significant, often ranging from 3 to 12 months, especially for infant care. Popular centers or highly-rated family child care homes may have the longest waits. It is strongly recommended that parents begin researching and contacting providers as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before your needed start date. When you contact a provider, ask specifically about their current waitlist length, if there's a fee to be placed on it, and how often they update families on their position. Considering neighboring towns like Salida or Buena Vista for more options is also a common strategy for Howard families.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Howard, and are there any local or state financial assistance programs available?
In Howard and the surrounding Chaffee County area, full-time childcare costs vary by age and setting. For an infant in a licensed family child care home, you might expect $800-$1,000 per month. For a toddler or preschooler in a center, costs can range from $700-$900 per month. These rates are generally lower than in major Colorado cities but can still be a significant portion of a household budget. Financial assistance is available through the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP), administered by Chaffee County. Eligibility is based on income, work/training status, and family size. Additionally, the universal preschool (UPK) program offers 15 hours per week of free preschool the year before kindergarten, which can be used at participating providers.
Are there any unique childcare options in Howard that cater to outdoor or nature-based learning, given the local environment?
Yes, the natural environment around Howard is a key feature of some local childcare offerings. Given the proximity to the Arkansas River and vast public lands, some licensed family child care providers and small preschools incorporate a significant outdoor component, often following a "forest school" or nature-based philosophy. These programs prioritize outdoor play and exploration in all weather, focusing on hands-on learning about the local ecosystem. Availability is limited due to Howard's size, so it requires specific inquiry. You might also find providers in nearby Salida who offer nature-based programs and may provide transportation from Howard. Always ensure any nature-based program is still fully licensed and meets all Colorado safety standards.
What should I look for when touring a potential daycare in Howard, and are there any local resources to help with the search?
When touring a daycare in Howard, look beyond the basics. Observe caregiver-child interactions—are they warm and engaged? Check for cleanliness and safety, including secure outdoor play areas. Ask about their daily schedule, discipline philosophy, and how they handle emergencies, especially given Howard's rural location and potential for weather-related issues. Inquire about staff qualifications and turnover. For local support, the "Chaffee County Early Childhood Council" is an invaluable resource. They can provide referrals to licensed providers, help you understand quality indicators, and connect you with parenting supports. They often have the most current information on openings and new providers in the Howard area.