The Best Daycare Centers in Eagle, ID
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Eagle. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Eagle
KinderCare at Eagle Road
KinderCare Learning Companies
This highly-rated KinderCare location offers comprehensive early childhood education with research-based curriculum including phonics, math, and science programs. Features include secure keypad entry, dedicated age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Staff maintain low teacher-to-child ratios with qualified early childhood educators. The center provides nutritious meals and emphasizes developmental milestones tracking with regular parent communication. Known for its structured learning environment combined with play-based activities that promote social, emotional, and academic growth.
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The Goddard School of Eagle
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Eagle offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social development. Features state-of-the-art security systems including electronic entry and surveillance. Highly qualified teachers with early childhood education degrees create individualized learning plans. The facility includes STEM labs, outdoor playgrounds, and dedicated art spaces. Emphasizes play-based learning with structured curriculum that prepares children for kindergarten while fostering creativity and critical thinking skills.
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Eagle Montessori Academy
Independent
Eagle Montessori Academy provides authentic Montessori education in a carefully prepared environment. The school features AMI-trained teachers and mixed-age classrooms that encourage peer learning. Curriculum emphasizes practical life skills, sensorial development, language, mathematics, and cultural studies. The secure campus includes beautiful outdoor classrooms, gardens, and natural play spaces. Known for its individualized approach that allows children to progress at their own pace while developing independence, concentration, and love of learning. Maintains exceptional teacher retention and strong parent community.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Eagle, ID
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Eagle, Idaho?
In Eagle, full-time daycare costs vary based on the type of facility and the child's age. For center-based care, you can expect to pay between $1,000 to $1,400 per month for an infant, and slightly less, around $900 to $1,200 per month, for a toddler. In-home licensed family daycare is often more affordable, typically ranging from $700 to $1,000 monthly. These rates are generally higher than the Idaho state average due to Eagle's higher cost of living and family demographics. It's important to ask what is included in the tuition, such as meals, snacks, diapers, and curriculum materials, as these can affect the overall value.
How long are daycare waitlists in Eagle, and how can I secure a spot for my child?
Waitlists for quality daycare centers and popular in-home providers in Eagle can be significant, especially for infants. It's not uncommon for waitlists to be 6 to 12 months long for infant rooms. To secure a spot, parents are advised to begin their search and get on multiple lists during pregnancy or as soon as they know they will need care. Many facilities require a non-refundable waitlist fee. Be proactive: schedule tours, stay in regular contact with the director, and be flexible on your start date if possible. Exploring newer centers or providers in neighboring areas like Star or Meridian can also offer shorter wait times.
What are Idaho's licensing requirements for childcare providers, and how can I verify a provider in Eagle is compliant?
Idaho law requires any person or facility providing care for 13 or more hours per week to non-relative children to be licensed by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. Licensed providers in Eagle must meet standards for staff-to-child ratios, safety inspections, background checks, health and immunization policies, and ongoing training. You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any serious violations by using the "Child Care Licensing Lookup" tool on the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare website. Always confirm licensing during your tour and ask to see their current certificate.
Are there specific outdoor or nature-based childcare programs available in Eagle, given its proximity to foothills and parks?
Yes, Eagle's location offers unique opportunities for nature-focused childcare. Several local providers and preschools incorporate "forest school" principles, with regular outdoor exploration at nearby parks like Eagle Island State Park, the Boise River Greenbelt, and local foothills trails. These programs emphasize outdoor play and learning in all weather. Additionally, many standard daycare centers in Eagle prioritize outdoor time with large, natural playgrounds. When touring, ask about the daily schedule for outdoor play, field trip policies to natural areas, and their philosophy on nature-based learning to find a program that matches your family's values.
What resources are available in Eagle to help parents find and evaluate childcare options?
Parents in Eagle have several valuable local resources. The primary resource is **IdahoSTARS**, a state-funded program that offers a free, searchable database of licensed providers, quality ratings, and parent referrals. You can access their services online or call their referral line. Additionally, the **City of Eagle Parks and Recreation Department** often has information on preschool programs run through the city. Local parent groups on social media platforms like Facebook (e.g., "Eagle, Idaho Moms") are excellent for getting personal recommendations and insights into provider reputations and current waitlist situations.