The Best Daycare Centers in Arco, ID
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Arco. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Arco
KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education
KinderCare Learning Center in Idaho Falls is a nationally accredited facility that serves families in the Arco area with a play-based curriculum focused on early childhood development. They employ qualified teachers with backgrounds in early education and maintain low student-teacher ratios to ensure personalized attention. The center emphasizes safety with secure entry systems, regular health checks, and CPR-certified staff. Their curriculum includes literacy, math, and social skills activities, supported by indoor and outdoor play spaces. Parent communication is prioritized through daily updates and family engagement events, contributing to high parent satisfaction and a track record of preparing children for kindergarten.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Idaho Falls
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Idaho Falls offers a FLEX Learning Program that blends academic rigor with play-based activities, serving Arco families with a focus on whole-child development. Staff members hold degrees in early childhood education and participate in ongoing training to maintain high standards. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, safe outdoor play areas, and robust safety protocols including background checks and emergency drills. Their curriculum incorporates STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) elements, and they provide nutritious meals and regular progress reports to parents, fostering strong community ties and consistently high ratings for educational quality.
Daycare Services:
Discovery Child Development Center
Private Ownership
Discovery Child Development Center is a locally owned facility known for its hands-on, inquiry-based learning approach that caters to children from Arco and surrounding areas. They employ certified teachers who specialize in early childhood development and maintain small class sizes for individualized care. The center prioritizes safety with monitored access, clean environments, and adherence to state licensing standards. Their curriculum emphasizes STEM activities, creative arts, and social-emotional learning, supported by modern learning materials and outdoor exploration spaces. Parent involvement is encouraged through open communication and seasonal events, leading to excellent parent reviews and a reputation for nurturing well-rounded children.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Arco, ID
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Arco, Idaho, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Idaho, childcare providers must be licensed by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare if they care for more than six children unrelated to them. This includes family childcare homes and childcare centers. Licensed facilities in Arco must meet state standards for safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, health and sanitation, and developmentally appropriate programming. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the Idaho Child Care Search tool on the Department's website or contact the local Public Health District office. Given Arco's small size, many providers may be licensed family homes, which are a common and regulated option in rural communities.
How available is infant childcare in Arco, and are there typically long waitlists?
Infant childcare (for children under 2 years old) is often the most limited type of care due to stricter staff-to-child ratios. In a small town like Arco, options may be very limited, potentially to just a handful of licensed family homes or a single center. It is common for there to be waitlists, especially for infants. Parents are strongly advised to begin their search during pregnancy and get on multiple lists if possible. Networking with other local parents through community groups or social media can provide leads on potential openings or in-home providers who may not be widely advertised.
What is the typical cost range for full-time daycare in Arco, and are there any local or state assistance programs?
Childcare costs in Arco are generally lower than Idaho's urban averages but can vary. For a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay approximately $120-$180 per week for full-time care for a preschooler. Infant care will be at the higher end of that range or slightly above. The Idaho Child Care Program (ICCP) provides financial assistance to eligible low-income families who are working, in school, or in training. Eligibility is based on income and family size. You can apply through the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. Additionally, some providers may offer sibling discounts.
Given Arco's remote location, what should I look for in a daycare's emergency preparedness plan?
Arco's rural setting and proximity to the Idaho National Laboratory area make specific emergency preparedness crucial. When evaluating a daycare, ask about their written plans for: 1) **Medical emergencies:** Distance and protocols to the nearest clinic or for transport to a hospital (the nearest full-service hospital is in Idaho Falls, over an hour away). 2) **Natural disasters:** Plans for wildfires, severe winter storms, or earthquakes, including evacuation routes and shelter-in-place supplies. 3) **Communication:** How parents will be notified during an emergency, especially if cell service is disrupted. A reputable provider will have clear, practiced procedures and may coordinate with local emergency services.
Are there any part-time, drop-in, or after-school care options available for school-age children in Arco?
Options for school-age care in Arco are primarily tied to the Butte County School District. The district may offer an after-school program at the elementary school, which is a key resource for working parents. For part-time or drop-in care, your best bet is to inquire with licensed family childcare homes, as some may have flexibility to accommodate non-full-time schedules, especially for older children. During school breaks and summer, some providers or the school district may offer day camps or full-day care programs. Due to limited providers, securing consistent part-time care often requires building a relationship with a local in-home provider well in advance.