The Best Daycare Centers in Declo, ID
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Declo. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Declo
Little Lambs Learning Center
Independent
Little Lambs Learning Center offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with a play-based learning approach. The center features certified early childhood educators with specialized training in developmental milestones. Their curriculum includes STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. The facility includes secure indoor classrooms with age-appropriate learning centers and a large outdoor playground with safety-certified equipment. They maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios and provide nutritious meals and snacks. Parent communication includes daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences.
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Kid's World Child Care & Learning Center
Independent
Kid's World provides a structured educational environment with a focus on school readiness. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum elements with hands-on learning activities. The center employs state-certified teachers with backgrounds in early childhood education and ongoing professional development. Safety features include secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The facility offers separate age-specific classrooms, a large motor skills area, and an enclosed outdoor play space. They emphasize character development and social skills alongside academic preparation.
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Magic Valley Montessori
Independent
Magic Valley Montessori offers authentic Montessori education with AMI-trained guides and certified Montessori teachers. The program emphasizes child-directed learning, practical life skills, and individualized academic progression. Classrooms are equipped with genuine Montessori materials across all curriculum areas including sensorial, language, mathematics, and cultural studies. The facility features beautiful, prepared environments with natural materials, child-sized furniture, and peaceful learning spaces. They maintain small class sizes with low student-teacher ratios and offer extended care options. The center is known for its peaceful atmosphere and strong community relationships.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Declo, ID
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Declo, Idaho?
In Declo and the surrounding Cassia County area, parents primarily have two types of licensed childcare options. The first is licensed family childcare homes, which are small, home-based operations typically caring for up to 12 children. These are common in rural communities like Declo and can offer a more flexible, family-like environment. The second is licensed childcare centers, though these are less common in Declo itself; parents may need to look in nearby larger towns like Burley (about 10 miles away) for center-based care. All licensed providers in Idaho are regulated by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, which sets standards for safety, staff-to-child ratios, and health practices. You can search for licensed providers in Cassia County through the IdahoSTARS website or by contacting the local Public Health District.
How much does full-time childcare typically cost in Declo, and are there any financial assistance programs?
Childcare costs in Declo are generally lower than the Idaho state average, reflecting the rural cost of living. For a licensed family childcare home, you can expect to pay approximately $120 to $180 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. For preschool-aged children, costs might range from $100 to $150 per week. Financial assistance is available for qualifying families through the Idaho Child Care Program (ICCP), which is Idaho's subsidy program. Eligibility is based on income, work or school attendance, and family size. You can apply through the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
Are there long waitlists for childcare in Declo, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of licensed providers in a small town like Declo, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care spots. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search at least 3 to 6 months before they need care, and if you are expecting a new baby, it's wise to get on lists during your second trimester. Many popular in-home providers have a small, consistent clientele and may only have openings when a child ages out or a family moves. Being proactive, networking with other parents through local community groups or churches, and expanding your search to include neighboring communities like Burley or Albion can increase your chances of finding an available spot.
What should I look for when visiting a potential daycare provider in Declo?
When visiting a provider in Declo, look for signs of a safe, engaging, and licensed operation. First, verify their license is current and posted, which you can cross-check with IdahoSTARS. Observe the environment: Is the home or facility clean and child-proofed? Are there age-appropriate toys and books? Ask about the daily schedule, including outdoor playtime (weather permitting) and nap routines. Inquire about the provider's experience, training in CPR/First Aid, and their policies on discipline, sick children, and nutrition. Given the rural setting, ask about their emergency preparedness plan for situations like severe weather or medical incidents. Trust your instincts about the caregiver's warmth and interaction with the children.
What are the state licensing requirements for childcare providers in Idaho, and how can I verify a provider's compliance?
Idaho law requires any person or facility providing care for 7 or more unrelated children to be licensed by the Department of Health and Welfare. Key requirements include background checks for all adults in the home or center, annual health and safety training, CPR/First Aid certification, maintaining specific staff-to-child ratios based on age, and regular facility inspections. For smaller, license-exempt providers (caring for 6 or fewer children), parents must be extra diligent. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, use the free online search tool on the **IdahoSTARS website** or contact the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare's local office. This public record will show the license status, any past violations, and the results of their most recent inspection.