The Best Daycare Centers in Sterling, CO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Sterling. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Sterling
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center is Sterling's premier early childhood education facility offering comprehensive care from infancy through school age. The center features a research-based curriculum that emphasizes developmental milestones, social-emotional learning, and school readiness. Their qualified teaching staff maintains low child-to-teacher ratios and participates in ongoing professional development. The facility includes secure indoor learning environments with age-appropriate classrooms, dedicated outdoor play areas with safety surfaces, and a nutritious meal program. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, cleanliness, and the nurturing environment that helps children thrive academically and socially.
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The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
Located in nearby Fort Morgan and serving the Sterling area, The Goddard School offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. The school features state-licensed teachers, secure keypad entry systems, and modern classrooms equipped with advanced learning materials. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social development through structured and unstructured play. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, on-site kitchen for nutritious meals, and comprehensive safety protocols. Parents appreciate the regular progress updates and the school's commitment to preparing children for elementary school success.
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Tiny Tots Child Care
Independent
Tiny Tots Child Care in Brush serves families throughout Northeast Colorado including Sterling with high-quality early childhood education and care. The center provides a structured yet flexible learning environment that incorporates Creative Curriculum approaches with hands-on activities and play-based learning. Their experienced staff includes early childhood professionals with CPR and first aid certification, and the center maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios. The facility features secure access, modern learning materials, outdoor play spaces, and a focus on developmental appropriateness across all age groups. Parents consistently highlight the center's warm, family-like atmosphere, excellent communication, and the visible developmental progress children make while attending.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Sterling, CO
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Sterling, Colorado, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Sterling, all childcare centers and family childcare homes serving more than one unrelated family must be licensed by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC). The state mandates specific staff-to-child ratios, background checks for all employees, health and safety training, and regular facility inspections. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the official "Colorado Shines" quality rating and improvement system website or contact the CDEC directly. Many Sterling providers also participate in the Colorado Shines program, which rates them on quality beyond minimum licensing, so checking their rating (Level 1-5) can give you deeper insight into their program quality.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Sterling, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Sterling, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from $800 to $1,100 per month, while toddler care may range from $700 to $950 per month. These rates can vary based on the type of facility (center vs. home-based), its quality rating, and included amenities. For financial assistance, the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP) is available for qualifying families through the Logan County Department of Human Services in Sterling. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's also worth inquiring about potential support through employer-sponsored programs or local non-profits like the Family Resource Center.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Sterling, and when should I start looking for care?
Waitlists in Sterling can vary significantly. For popular centers and infant care slots, which are in highest demand due to lower staff-to-child ratios, waitlists can be 3 to 9 months long. For toddler and preschool-age children, wait times may be shorter, often 1 to 4 months. It is highly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a move to Sterling begin their search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during the second trimester of pregnancy or at least 6 months before care is needed. Be sure to ask providers about their specific waitlist policies, including any non-refundable fees to hold a spot.
What types of childcare options are most commonly available in Sterling, Colorado?
Sterling offers a mix of childcare options to fit different family needs. The most common types are licensed childcare centers (like Early Learning Center at Northeastern Junior College or Little Learners Preschool), licensed family childcare homes (smaller, home-based settings often with mixed-age groups), and preschool programs, which may be part-day. Given Sterling's rural nature, family childcare homes are a vital part of the local ecosystem, often providing more flexible hours. There are also faith-based programs and programs affiliated with the local school district (RE-1 Valley) for preschool-aged children. Options for non-traditional hour care (evenings/weekends) are very limited.
Are there any unique local resources or programs in Sterling to help parents find and evaluate childcare?
Yes, a key local resource is the Northeast Colorado Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R), which serves Logan County. They provide free, personalized referrals to licensed providers based on your specific needs (location, hours, child's age). They can also help you understand quality indicators and state regulations. Additionally, the "Colorado Shines" website is an essential tool for evaluating providers. For hands-on support, consider contacting the Family Resource Center in Sterling, which may offer parenting workshops and connections to local services. Attending community events at the Sterling Public Library or the Sterling Recreation Center can also be a good way to network with other parents for personal recommendations.