The Best Daycare Centers in Montrose, CO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Montrose. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Montrose
The Learning Center of Montrose
The Learning Center
The Learning Center of Montrose stands out as a premier early childhood education facility with a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes whole-child development. Their educational approach combines structured learning with play-based activities, focusing on social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM foundations. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials and maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Facilities include secure, age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor playgrounds with natural elements, and dedicated spaces for creative arts and motor skill development. The center is known for its strong parent communication system, nutritious meal program, and commitment to creating a nurturing environment that supports each child's individual growth and learning style.
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Wee Care Child Development Center
Wee Care CDC
Wee Care Child Development Center offers a research-based curriculum that focuses on developmental milestones and school readiness. Their educational philosophy emphasizes hands-on learning through discovery and exploration, with specialized programs for each age group. The center employs experienced early childhood educators who participate in ongoing professional development and maintain CPR/first aid certifications. Safety is prioritized with secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and rigorous health protocols. The facility features bright, well-organized classrooms, age-appropriate learning materials, and outdoor play areas designed to encourage physical development and nature exploration. Parents consistently praise the center's warm, family-like atmosphere and the staff's dedication to individualized attention for each child.
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The Goddard School of Montrose
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Montrose brings a nationally recognized early childhood education program to the community with their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience). This play-based curriculum focuses on seven learning domains: personal/social development, language/literacy, mathematical thinking, scientific thinking, social studies, creative expression, and physical development. The center features state-of-the-art facilities with secure, technology-enhanced classrooms, dedicated art and music spaces, and innovative outdoor learning environments. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the school maintains rigorous safety standards including comprehensive security systems and health protocols. The program emphasizes parent partnership through regular communication, progress reports, and family engagement events, creating a collaborative approach to each child's development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Montrose, CO
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Montrose, CO?
In Montrose, the cost of childcare varies based on the child's age and the type of program. For infants and toddlers in a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $900 and $1,200 per month for full-time care. Preschool programs for children ages 3-5 are generally slightly less, ranging from $700 to $1,000 per month. Home-based family childcare providers often offer more affordable rates, typically between $650 and $900 monthly. These costs are generally lower than in larger Colorado cities like Denver or Boulder, but it's important to note that financial assistance may be available through the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP) for eligible families in Montrose County.
How long are waitlists for quality daycare centers in Montrose, and how can I secure a spot?
Due to high demand and limited provider capacity, waitlists for reputable daycare centers and preschools in Montrose can be significant, especially for infant care. It is not uncommon for families to be on a waitlist for 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer. To improve your chances, we recommend contacting centers as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. Get on multiple waitlists, follow up politely every few months to confirm your spot, and be flexible with your start date. Some centers may also offer priority to siblings of current enrollees or employees of local partner businesses.
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Montrose, and how can I verify a provider's license?
All childcare providers in Montrose caring for more than one unrelated family must be licensed by the State of Colorado's Office of Early Childhood. Key requirements include background checks for all staff, health and safety training (including CPR/First Aid), annual professional development, and adherence to strict child-to-staff ratios and facility standards. You can easily verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any violations through the official "Colorado Shines" quality rating and improvement system website. Always choose a licensed provider to ensure basic health, safety, and accountability standards are met.
Are there any unique outdoor or nature-based childcare programs available in the Montrose area?
Yes, the natural landscape around Montrose offers unique opportunities for nature-based learning. Some local providers and preschools incorporate daily outdoor play and exploration into their curriculum, taking advantage of nearby parks, trails, and the proximity to the Uncompahgre River and the mountains. While a fully forest-school-style program may be less common, several centers emphasize outdoor education. Additionally, the Montrose Botanic Gardens and the Ute Indian Museum can be resources for local field trips. When touring facilities, ask specifically about their outdoor time philosophy, playground safety, and how they utilize Montrose's natural environment for child development.
What resources are available in Montrose to help me find and evaluate childcare options?
The primary local resource is the Montrose County Early Childhood Council. They offer a free, personalized referral service through the "Colorado Shines" website and hotline, helping you search for licensed providers based on your specific location, needs, and a provider's quality rating. The Council also hosts events and provides information on parenting support and early childhood programs. Furthermore, connecting with other parents through local community groups on social media or at places like the Montrose Regional Library can provide invaluable word-of-mouth recommendations and insights into the current childcare landscape in our specific community.