The Best Daycare Centers in Silverton, CO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Silverton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Silverton
Silverton School Preschool
Silverton School District
Silverton School Preschool operates as part of the Silverton School District, offering a comprehensive early childhood program in a small, community-focused environment. The program emphasizes play-based learning with structured academic preparation, utilizing the Creative Curriculum approach. Certified early childhood educators maintain low student-teacher ratios, and the facility includes dedicated preschool classrooms with age-appropriate learning centers. The program integrates outdoor education, taking advantage of Silverton's mountain environment for nature-based learning activities. Safety is prioritized with secure facility access and comprehensive emergency protocols. The preschool serves as the primary early childhood education provider for the Silverton community, with strong parent-teacher communication and community involvement.
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The Garden Preschool of Durango
Independent
The Garden Preschool of Durango offers a highly-regarded nature-based early childhood program that serves families throughout the San Juan region, including Silverton. The curriculum emphasizes outdoor exploration, environmental education, and hands-on learning experiences. Certified teachers with early childhood credentials implement a Reggio Emilia-inspired approach that encourages child-directed learning and creativity. The facility features extensive outdoor learning environments, gardens, and natural play spaces. The program focuses on social-emotional development, literacy readiness, and scientific inquiry through nature exploration. With small class sizes and individualized attention, this preschool has earned exceptional parent satisfaction ratings for its nurturing environment and educational quality. Many Silverton families commute to this program for its outstanding reputation.
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Children's Garden Montessori
Independent
Children's Garden Montessori provides authentic Montessori education for children from infancy through kindergarten, serving families across the San Juan Mountains region. The program features AMI-certified Montessori guides and carefully prepared classroom environments with genuine Montessori materials. The curriculum emphasizes independence, practical life skills, sensorial development, and academic foundation building. The facility includes specialized infant and toddler environments, spacious preschool classrooms, and beautiful outdoor play areas. Safety protocols include secure access systems, comprehensive staff training, and health monitoring procedures. The center has maintained excellent ratings for nearly two decades, with particular recognition for teacher qualifications, educational approach quality, and consistent parent communication. Many Silverton-area families choose this center for its established reputation and comprehensive early childhood program.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Silverton, CO
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Silverton, CO, and how do I find them?
In Silverton, due to its small, remote population, licensed childcare options are primarily Family Child Care Homes (FCCH) operated in a provider's residence, which are licensed for a smaller number of children. There are no large daycare centers in town. To find licensed providers, your best resource is the Colorado Shines website, which is the state's quality rating and improvement system for licensed childcare. You can search by zip code (81433) to see currently licensed homes in or near Silverton. Additionally, contacting the San Juan Basin Public Health Department or local community boards like the Silverton Town Hall or post office can provide word-of-mouth recommendations, which are crucial in this tight-knit community.
Given Silverton's remote location and seasonal tourism, how long are typical waitlists for childcare, and when should I start looking?
Waitlists in Silverton can be significant and unpredictable due to extremely limited capacity. It is not uncommon for families to get on a waitlist as soon as they know they are expecting, or even before. With only a handful of licensed providers serving the year-round community, spots are highly coveted. The situation can be even more acute in the summer and early fall during the busy tourist season when seasonal workers also seek childcare. We recommend starting your search and making inquiries at least 9-12 months before you will need care. Be persistent, get on multiple lists if possible, and check in regularly with providers.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Silverton, and are there any local or state assistance programs available?
While specific rates vary by provider, full-time childcare in a Family Child Care Home in Silverton typically ranges from $800 to $1,200+ per month per child. Costs can be on the higher end due to the remote location and limited competition. Financial assistance is available through the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP), administered by the San Juan County Department of Human Services. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (such as working or attending school). Given the high cost of living in the area, many qualifying families utilize this program. We strongly recommend contacting the San Juan County DHS office to apply and determine your eligibility.
How does Colorado's licensing and "Colorado Shines" rating work for home-based providers in Silverton?
All licensed childcare providers in Colorado, including home-based providers in Silverton, must meet state health, safety, and training requirements. The Colorado Shines rating system is a voluntary program that goes beyond basic licensing. Providers are rated on a scale of 1 to 5 (with 5 being the highest) based on factors like staff qualifications, learning environment, and family partnerships. In a small town like Silverton, a provider's Colorado Shines rating can be a helpful indicator of quality, but personal referrals and visits are equally important. You can view a provider's license status and any Colorado Shines rating on the official Colorado Shines website.
Are there any unique challenges or considerations for childcare in Silverton related to its mountain environment and weather?
Absolutely. Silverton's high-altitude, mountainous environment presents specific considerations. First, transportation during heavy winter snowfalls can be challenging. Discuss with your provider their policies for late pick-up or closure during severe storms. Second, outdoor play is a major component of Colorado's early learning guidelines, so inquire about safe, enclosed outdoor spaces and cold-weather policies. Finally, ensure the provider is prepared for emergencies like avalanches, power outages, or road closures that can isolate the town. They should have a clear emergency plan, backup supplies, and a communication protocol for parents. These logistical factors are as important to evaluate as the educational program.