The Best Daycare Centers in Chester, ID
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Chester. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Chester
KinderCare Learning Center at Idaho Falls
KinderCare Education
KinderCare at Idaho Falls provides a comprehensive early childhood education program with a research-based curriculum that focuses on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials and maintains low student-teacher ratios. Safety is prioritized with secured entry systems, regular safety drills, and strict health protocols. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers. Parents appreciate the consistent communication through daily reports and family engagement events. The center stands out for its balanced approach to play-based learning and structured academic preparation.
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The Goddard School of Idaho Falls
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Idaho Falls offers a premier early childhood education program with a F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. The school features state-certified teachers with ongoing professional development and emphasizes STEM education, language arts, and social skills. Safety measures include biometric entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and sanitization protocols. The modern facility includes interactive whiteboards, outdoor learning environments, and nutritionally balanced meal programs. Parents consistently praise the school's communication, individualized attention to children's needs, and strong community atmosphere that makes it a top choice for regional families.
Daycare Services:
BYU-Idaho Child and Family Studies Center
Brigham Young University-Idaho
The BYU-Idaho Child and Family Studies Center provides high-quality early childhood education with a developmental approach that integrates best practices in child development theory. The center serves as a training facility for university students in education programs, ensuring cutting-edge teaching methods and low child-to-staff ratios. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, social development, and school readiness through structured play and project-based activities. Safety is enhanced through university security systems, health screenings, and modern facilities with observation areas for parent involvement. The center is particularly noted for its research-based approach, family partnership model, and inclusive environment that serves diverse families from across Eastern Idaho.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Chester, ID
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Chester, Idaho, and how can I verify a provider's status?
In Idaho, all childcare providers caring for four or more unrelated children must be licensed by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (IDHW). This includes family childcare homes and centers. Licensed providers in Chester must meet state standards for safety, staff-to-child ratios, health and sanitation, background checks, and ongoing training. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the "Child Care Search" tool on the IDHW website or contact the local Public Health District office. It's crucial to check this, as unlicensed care may not meet these safety standards. You can also ask the provider directly for their license number and inspection reports.
What is the typical cost range for full-time daycare or preschool in Chester, ID, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Chester and the surrounding Fremont County area, costs for full-time childcare can vary. For a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $120 to $180 per week per child. A center-based program or preschool could range from $150 to $220 per week. These rates are generally lower than state averages due to the rural nature of the area. For financial assistance, Idaho offers the Child Care Program (CCP) for eligible families, which is income-based. You can apply through the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly.
How far in advance should I start looking for and securing a daycare spot in Chester, given its smaller community size?
Due to Chester's small population and limited number of providers, it is highly recommended to start your search at least 3 to 6 months before you need care, and even earlier for infant spots, which are the most limited. Many licensed family homes in the area may only have capacity for 6-12 children total, and they often fill openings from within their existing networks. It's common for popular providers to have waitlists. Start by asking for recommendations from other parents in the community, checking local bulletin boards (like at the post office or market), and contacting providers directly to inquire about current availability and future openings.
What are the primary types of childcare options available specifically in Chester, ID?
In a small, rural community like Chester, your options are primarily: 1. **Licensed Family Child Care Homes:** This is the most common type, where care is provided in a provider's residence. They offer a home-like setting and often have mixed-age groups. 2. **License-Exempt Care:** Care by a relative, or care for three or fewer unrelated children in a home, which is not required to be licensed but must still meet basic health and safety standards. 3. **Center-Based Care/Preschools:** There are very few, if any, dedicated childcare centers within Chester itself. Parents often look to nearby larger towns like St. Anthony or Rexburg for center-based options, which involves a commute. 4. **Nanny or In-Home Care:** This can be an option, though finding a qualified individual in a small town may require a broader search in Fremont County.
Are there any state or local resources to help me find and evaluate childcare providers in Fremont County?
Yes, there are several key resources. The primary state resource is the **IdahoSTARS** program, which is part of the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. Their website and helpline offer a searchable database of licensed providers, quality ratings (on a 1-5 star scale), and resources on what to look for in a quality program. You can also contact the **Idaho CareLine by dialing 2-1-1** or visiting 211.idaho.gov for referrals and information on social services. Locally, connecting with other parents through community Facebook groups (e.g., "Chester, Idaho Community" or "Fremont County Talk") is an invaluable way to get personal recommendations and learn about smaller, home-based providers that may not be heavily advertised.