The Best Daycare Centers in Firth, ID
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Firth. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Firth
Little Lambs Learning Center
Independent
Little Lambs Learning Center is a highly-regarded childcare facility located in nearby Shelley, serving the Firth community with comprehensive early childhood education programs. The center features a research-based curriculum that emphasizes developmental milestones through play-based learning and structured activities. Their qualified teaching staff maintains low teacher-to-child ratios, with lead teachers holding early childhood education credentials. The facility includes secure indoor learning environments with age-appropriate classrooms, dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, and safe outdoor playgrounds with modern equipment. Parents consistently praise the center's nurturing environment, strong communication, and focus on social-emotional development alongside academic readiness.
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The Learning Garden
Independent
The Learning Garden provides exceptional childcare services to families throughout the greater Idaho Falls area, including Firth residents. This center stands out for its innovative Montessori-inspired curriculum combined with traditional early learning standards. Their educational approach focuses on individualized learning plans, hands-on exploration, and developing independence. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems including coded entry, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and rigorous safety protocols. Teachers are certified in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The center offers nutritious meal programs, spacious indoor learning centers, and nature-based outdoor environments that encourage physical development and exploration.
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The Children's Place
Independent
The Children's Place has built an outstanding reputation over nearly two decades of serving Eastern Idaho communities including Firth. This center offers a comprehensive educational program that balances academic preparation with social development. Their curriculum incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and creative arts, with specialized programs for each age group. The facility includes modern classrooms equipped with interactive technology, dedicated music and movement spaces, and secure outdoor play areas designed for different developmental stages. Staff members are highly qualified with many holding bachelor's degrees in education or child development. Parents consistently highlight the center's excellent communication, transparent daily reporting, and commitment to creating a warm, inclusive community atmosphere.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Firth, ID
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Firth, Idaho?
In Firth, Idaho, parents primarily have two licensed options: family childcare homes and childcare centers. Family childcare homes are smaller, home-based operations licensed for up to 12 children, offering a more intimate, family-like setting. Given Firth's small, rural community, these are often the most common type. There are no large commercial childcare chains in Firth itself; families may also look at licensed providers in nearby towns like Blackfoot or Shelley. All licensed providers in Idaho must meet state standards for safety, staff-to-child ratios, and health protocols. You can search for licensed providers specifically in Bingham County through Idaho's "Child Care Search" website run by the Department of Health and Welfare.
How much does full-time childcare typically cost in Firth, and are there any financial assistance programs?
In the Firth area, costs for full-time childcare can vary. For an infant in a licensed family home, you might expect to pay between $120 to $180 per week. For toddlers and preschoolers, the range is typically $100 to $150 per week. These rates are generally lower than in larger Idaho cities like Idaho Falls or Boise but are relative to local incomes. Financial assistance is available through the Idaho Child Care Program (ICCP), which provides subsidies to eligible families based on income, work, or school attendance. Applications are processed through the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking.
Are waitlists common for daycare providers in Firth, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small town like Firth, waitlists are very common, especially for infant care which has stricter staff-to-child ratios. It is strongly recommended to begin your search at least 3-6 months before you need care, and if you are expecting a baby, to get on lists during your second trimester. Many popular family childcare homes have limited capacity (often just 1-2 infant spots) and may maintain a waitlist for several months. Don't hesitate to also expand your search to surrounding communities like Shelley or Blackfoot to increase your options, but be prepared for potential commute considerations.
What are the state licensing requirements I should verify when choosing a daycare in Firth?
Idaho law requires any caregiver watching children from more than one unrelated family to be licensed. When evaluating a provider in Firth, you should confirm they have a current license from the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. Key requirements they must meet include: passing background checks for all adults in the home, completing CPR and First Aid training, maintaining safe environments (outlet covers, fenced yards, etc.), following approved health and immunization policies, and adhering to age-specific staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:3 for infants). You can ask to see their license and inspection reports, which are also public record through the state's online search tool.
What questions are specific to asking a rural, home-based daycare provider in Firth?
When interviewing a family childcare home in a rural setting like Firth, beyond standard questions, consider asking these location-specific questions: "What is your plan for emergency response, given that ambulance services may have longer response times from the county?" "Do you have a secure outdoor play area, and how do you manage safety with potential exposure to agricultural equipment or animals from neighboring properties?" "What is your policy on inclement weather and road conditions during the winter months?" "Given the community size, can you provide references from other local families you've cared for?" and "How flexible are you with hours for parents who may commute to Idaho Falls or Blackfoot for work?" These questions address the unique practicalities of rural childcare.