The Best Daycare Centers in Ashton, ID
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Ashton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Ashton
Little Lambs Preschool & Daycare
Independent
Little Lambs Preschool & Daycare is Ashton's premier local childcare facility, offering a comprehensive early childhood education program with a play-based learning approach. The center focuses on developing social, emotional, and academic skills through structured activities and creative play. Their experienced staff includes certified early childhood educators who maintain low teacher-to-child ratios for personalized attention. The facility features secure indoor learning environments and safe outdoor play areas. They emphasize character development, literacy foundation, and kindergarten readiness, making them a trusted choice for Ashton families seeking quality local childcare with strong community roots.
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The Goddard School of Rexburg
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in nearby Rexburg serves families throughout the Upper Valley region including Ashton, offering a premium F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic preparation with social development. Their state-licensed teachers implement developmentally appropriate curricula with STEAM learning opportunities. The facility features secure entry systems, modern classrooms, and age-appropriate playgrounds. With comprehensive safety protocols, nutritious meal programs, and regular parent communication through their proprietary mobile app, this nationally accredited center provides exceptional early childhood education that many Ashton families commute for due to its outstanding reputation and comprehensive services.
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ABC Academy Early Learning Center
ABC Academy
ABC Academy in Idaho Falls is a highly-regarded regional childcare center that serves families throughout Eastern Idaho, including those commuting from Ashton. They offer a research-based curriculum that incorporates literacy development, mathematics, science exploration, and social studies through hands-on learning experiences. The center employs degreed early childhood educators and maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios. Their secure facility includes monitored access, comprehensive safety protocols, and developmentally appropriate learning environments. With extended hours, nutritious meals included, and comprehensive age-specific programs from infants through school-age children, ABC Academy provides reliable, high-quality care that attracts families from surrounding communities seeking established, professional childcare services.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Ashton, ID
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Ashton, Idaho, and how can I verify a provider's status?
In Ashton, Idaho, all childcare providers caring for four or more unrelated children must be licensed by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. This includes family childcare homes and centers. Licensing ensures providers meet standards for safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, health and sanitation, and program activities. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the "Child Care Search" tool on the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare's website. You can search by provider name, city (Ashton), or zip code to see their current license, any history of non-compliance, and their licensed capacity. For very small, in-home care (3 or fewer children), licensing is not required, so parents should conduct extra diligence, including checking references and conducting in-person interviews.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers or popular in-home providers in Ashton, and how far in advance should I apply?
Due to the limited number of childcare options in a small, rural community like Ashton, waitlists can be significant, especially for infants and toddlers. For the most sought-after licensed centers or family homes, waitlists of 6 to 12 months are not uncommon. It is highly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a move to the area begin their search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during the second trimester of pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before care is needed. Be sure to ask providers about their specific waitlist policies, including any non-refundable deposit to hold a spot and how often you need to confirm your continued interest.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Ashton, and are there any local or state assistance programs available?
In Ashton and the surrounding Fremont County area, full-time childcare costs are generally lower than in Idaho's urban centers but vary by type and age of child. For a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $120-$180 per week. A daycare center, if available locally, may range from $150-$220 per week. Infant care is typically at the higher end of this scale. Financial assistance is available for qualifying families through the Idaho Child Care Program (ICCP), which is a state-administered subsidy. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or school enrollment). You can apply through the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts.
Given Ashton's rural location, what are the options for before-and-after-school care for school-age children?
For school-age children attending Ashton Elementary or other local schools, organized before-and-after-school programs are limited. The primary option is often the school district itself; check with the Fremont County Joint School District #215 to see if they offer an extended-day program. Many families in Ashton rely on smaller, licensed family childcare homes that are willing to provide before-and-after school care, including transportation to and from school. Another common solution is forming a cooperative with other parents or hiring a trusted in-home babysitter/nanny. Due to the scarcity, securing after-school care often requires networking within the community, such as through local Facebook groups or church bulletins.
What seasonal or agricultural factors unique to the Ashton/Teton Valley area should I consider when choosing childcare?
Ashton is in a region defined by agriculture and tourism, which creates unique childcare considerations. First, many providers may have adjusted hours or close for major local events like the Ashton 4th of July Celebration or during peak potato harvest season (late summer/early fall) if they or their families are involved in farming. Second, winter weather can be severe, so it's crucial to ask about a provider's snow day and delayed opening policy. Third, some providers may offer more outdoor, nature-based programming, taking advantage of the proximity to Yellowstone and Targhee National Forests—great for active kids. Finally, summer care demand spikes, so if you need year-round care, ensure your provider offers a consistent summer schedule and doesn't transition to a seasonal, tourist-focused job.