The Best Daycare Centers in Calder, ID
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Calder. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Calder
The Sunshine House of Kellogg
The Sunshine House Early Learning Academy
The Sunshine House of Kellogg is a highly-regarded early learning center serving the Silver Valley region, including Calder residents. They implement the Creative Curriculum system, which emphasizes play-based learning and developmentally appropriate practices. The center features state-certified teachers with ongoing professional development, secure entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their program includes STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. The facility offers spacious classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and nutritious meal programs. Parent communication is prioritized through daily reports and a dedicated parent app.
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Silver Valley Preschool & Daycare
Independent
Silver Valley Preschool & Daycare is a locally-owned facility known for its personalized approach to early childhood education. They serve families throughout Shoshone County, including Calder. The curriculum blends Montessori-inspired activities with structured learning, focusing on individual child development. Staff members hold early childhood education credentials and maintain low teacher-to-child ratios. The center emphasizes outdoor education and nature-based learning, with regular activities that incorporate the surrounding natural environment. Safety features include secured premises, comprehensive background checks, and emergency preparedness training.
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Little Schoolhouse Learning Center
Independent
Little Schoolhouse Learning Center in nearby Wallace serves the broader Silver Valley area, including Calder families. This established center offers a comprehensive early childhood program with a focus on school readiness and social development. Their approach combines structured academic preparation with creative arts and physical activity. The facility features modern learning materials, secure indoor environments, and safe outdoor play areas. Teachers implement individualized learning plans and maintain detailed progress tracking. The center is known for its family-oriented atmosphere and strong community connections, with regular family events and open communication policies.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Calder, ID
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Calder, Idaho, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Idaho, all childcare facilities caring for 13 or more children must be licensed by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (IDHW). This includes centers in Calder. Licensed providers must meet standards for staff-to-child ratios, safety inspections, background checks, and staff training in CPR/First Aid and health and safety. For smaller in-home daycares (4-12 children), providers can choose to be licensed or registered, with registered homes having fewer requirements. To verify a facility's status, you can use the IDHW's "Child Care Search" tool on their website or contact the local Public Health District office serving Shoshone County. Always ask to see a provider's current license or registration certificate during your visit.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Calder, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Calder and the surrounding rural areas of Shoshone County, daycare costs are generally lower than in Idaho's urban centers, but options are more limited. For a licensed center or home, you might expect to pay between $500 to $700 per month for full-time care for a toddler. Infant care is often more expensive and harder to find. Financial assistance is primarily available through the Idaho Child Care Program (ICCP), a state subsidy for eligible working families or those in training/education. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. You can apply through the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers or popular in-home providers in Calder, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to Calder's small, rural nature, licensed childcare slots are in short supply. Waitlists for the few dedicated centers or highly recommended registered homes can be several months to over a year long, especially for infants. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 6-12 months before your needed start date. When contacting providers, ask specifically about their current waitlist length and process (e.g., if a deposit is required to hold a spot). Networking with other parents in the community through local Facebook groups or community boards can also help you discover smaller, unadvertised home-based options.
What are the main types of childcare options available specifically within Calder or in nearby communities I might need to consider?
Given Calder's very small population, your immediate options within town limits may be limited to a small number of licensed family childcare homes or possibly a single center. Most families in Calder often look to nearby larger communities like Kellogg (approx. 15 miles away) or Wallace for more options, including licensed childcare centers, preschools, and family homes. Another common arrangement in rural areas like this is "family, friend, and neighbor (FFN)" care, which is unlicensed but may be more readily available. When expanding your search to neighboring towns, factor in commute time and weather conditions, which can be challenging in the Idaho Panhandle winters.
Are there any unique seasonal or logistical considerations for daycare in Calder, Idaho, that parents should plan for?
Yes, Calder's location in North Idaho presents specific considerations. First, severe winter weather is a major factor. You need to confirm the provider's policy for closures during heavy snow or hazardous road conditions and have a backup plan. Second, many providers may follow the local school district's (likely Kellogg School District) calendar for major holidays and snow days, but not all do—always verify. Third, given the outdoor recreational culture, some providers may emphasize outdoor play; ask about their daily routine and safety protocols for outdoor time in variable weather. Finally, due to the rural setting, ensure the provider has a clear emergency plan for situations like wildfires or medical emergencies, considering potentially longer emergency response times.