The Best Daycare Centers in Towaoc, CO
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Towaoc. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Towaoc
The Sunshine House of Cortez
The Sunshine House Early Learning Academy
The Sunshine House of Cortez is a highly-regarded early learning center serving the Towaoc area with comprehensive educational programs. They feature the exclusive Smart Steps curriculum focused on literacy, math, science, and social skills development. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios with qualified early childhood educators who receive ongoing professional development. Facilities include secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and modern classrooms with interactive learning centers. Their program emphasizes school readiness through structured activities while promoting social-emotional development. The center provides nutritious meals and maintains strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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Willowtail Springs Nature Preschool & Childcare
Willowtail Springs
Willowtail Springs offers a unique nature-based educational approach that serves families throughout Montezuma County, including Towaoc. Their program emphasizes outdoor learning and environmental education, with children spending significant time exploring the 40-acre natural campus. The curriculum incorporates STEM concepts through hands-on nature experiences, gardening, and wildlife observation. Staff includes certified early childhood educators with specialized training in nature-based education and environmental science. The facility features indoor learning spaces designed to bring the outdoors in, plus extensive natural play areas. Parent reviews consistently praise the program's ability to foster curiosity, independence, and respect for nature while meeting developmental milestones.
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The Goddard School of Durango
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Durango provides high-quality early childhood education serving the broader Southwest Colorado region, including Towaoc families. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) balances academic readiness with social development through play-based learning. The school features state-licensed teachers with bachelor's or associate degrees in early childhood education or related fields. Facilities include secure building access, age-specific playgrounds, and technology-enhanced classrooms. The curriculum focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts while promoting character development. Parents appreciate the comprehensive communication system including daily activity reports, photos, and regular progress updates. The school maintains strict health and safety protocols with on-site security measures.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Towaoc, CO
What types of licensed childcare options are available in Towaoc, Colorado?
In Towaoc, licensed childcare options are primarily limited to family childcare homes (FCH) due to the small, rural nature of the community. There are currently no large daycare centers within the town itself. These licensed home-based providers care for a small number of children in a residential setting and are regulated by the Colorado Office of Early Childhood. For more extensive center-based programs, parents often look to nearby Cortez (approximately 15 miles away), which offers licensed childcare centers and preschools. It's crucial to verify a provider's license status through the Colorado Shines website, which also provides quality ratings.
How can I find and verify a licensed childcare provider in Towaoc?
The primary resource for finding and verifying licensed childcare in Towaoc and all of Colorado is the **Colorado Shines** website and provider search tool. This state-run system allows you to search by zip code (81334) and filter for Towaoc. It shows each provider's license status, any quality rating (Level 1-5), and inspection history. You can also contact the **San Juan Basin Public Health Department**, which serves Montezuma County, for local referrals and information on health and safety regulations. Always schedule an in-person visit to any home provider to assess the environment and ask for references from other local families.
Are there any childcare programs specifically supporting Ute Mountain Ute Tribe families in Towaoc?
Yes, families who are members of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe have access to specific support programs. The **Ute Mountain Ute Tribe Social Services Department** often has information on childcare assistance and may help connect families with certified providers. Additionally, the **Tribal Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF)**, administered through the tribe, can provide financial subsidies to eligible families to help cover the cost of licensed care, either in Towaoc or in approved programs in Cortez. It is highly recommended to contact the Tribal Social Services office directly for the most current information on availability and application processes.
What is the typical cost of childcare in Towaoc, and is financial assistance available?
Costs for licensed family childcare homes in Towaoc can vary but are generally lower than in larger Colorado cities, often ranging from **$30 to $45 per day** for full-time care. However, availability is extremely limited. Financial assistance is available through several avenues. The **Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP)** is a state-county program for income-eligible families, administered in Montezuma County by the Department of Human Services. As mentioned in FAQ 3, Tribal CCDF funds are a primary resource for enrolled tribal members. Some providers may also offer sliding scale fees based on income, so it's important to discuss costs directly during your search.
What should I consider regarding waitlists and planning ahead for childcare in Towaoc?
Due to the very limited number of providers in Towaoc, **waitlists are common and can be long**. It is strongly advised to begin your search for childcare **at least 6-12 months before you need care**, especially if you require infant or toddler care, which has the smallest provider-to-child ratios. When contacting a provider, always ask about their current waitlist length and policy. Given the scarcity of local options, be prepared to expand your search to include licensed providers in the surrounding areas like Cortez or even Mancos, which will involve a significant commute. Building a relationship with a few providers and checking in periodically can improve your chances of securing a spot.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Towaoc: