The Best Daycare Centers in Franklin, ID
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Franklin. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Franklin
Franklin County Head Start
Community Action Partnership of Idaho
Franklin County Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education and family support services to low-income families in the Franklin area. Their research-based curriculum focuses on school readiness, social-emotional development, and cognitive skills. The program employs qualified early childhood educators with specialized training in child development. They offer nutritious meals, health screenings, and family engagement activities. What makes this center stand out is their holistic approach that supports both children and families through educational programming, health services, and parent involvement opportunities.
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Little Learners Academy
Independent
Little Learners Academy offers a comprehensive early childhood program with a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation. Their curriculum emphasizes literacy development, STEM activities, and social skills. The center features qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials and maintains low student-teacher ratios. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and modern learning materials. They stand out for their individualized learning plans, regular progress assessments, and strong emphasis on parent-teacher communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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Sunshine Academy Preschool & Daycare
Independent
Sunshine Academy provides a nurturing environment with a balanced curriculum that combines academic readiness and creative expression. Their program focuses on developing fine motor skills, early literacy, mathematics concepts, and social competence through hands-on learning activities. The center employs experienced early childhood educators who participate in ongoing professional development. Safety features include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and emergency preparedness protocols. What distinguishes this center is their strong community involvement, regular educational field trips, and emphasis on character development through values-based education.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Franklin, ID
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Franklin, Idaho, and how can I verify a provider's license?
In Idaho, all childcare providers caring for four or more unrelated children must be licensed by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. This includes family childcare homes and centers. Licensed providers in Franklin 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 Idaho Child Care Search tool on the Department's website or contact the local licensing office. It's highly recommended to only use licensed care, as this ensures a baseline of safety and oversight. Unlicensed care for smaller groups is legal but not subject to state inspections.
What is the typical cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Franklin, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Franklin and the surrounding Cache Valley area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $500 to $750 per month, while toddler care may be slightly less, around $450 to $650 per month. These costs can vary based on the type of care (center vs. in-home) and the specific services offered. 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. It's also worth checking if your employer offers a Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
How long are daycare waitlists typically in Franklin, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to Franklin's smaller, rural community size, licensed daycare options are limited, and waitlists can be significant, especially for infant care. It is not uncommon for popular providers or centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. We strongly recommend starting your search as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 4-6 months before you need care. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current waitlist length and if they require a deposit to hold a spot. Being flexible with your start date can also improve your chances of securing a spot sooner.
What are the main types of childcare options available specifically in Franklin, ID?
Parents in Franklin generally have three primary options: Licensed Family Childcare Homes, Licensed Childcare Centers, and Relative/Nanny Care. Licensed Family Homes are the most common in Franklin, offering a home-based setting for a smaller group of children, often with mixed ages. Licensed Centers are less common in Franklin itself but may be found in nearby Preston or Logan, UT, offering a more structured, classroom-like environment. Due to the rural setting, many families also rely on registered or unregistered in-home providers or nannies, which requires thorough vetting. There are very few large corporate daycare chains in the immediate area.
Are there any unique seasonal or agricultural considerations for childcare in Franklin, given its farming community?
Yes, Franklin's identity as an agricultural community can impact childcare. Some providers may offer adjusted hours or seasonal schedules to accommodate farming families during peak planting and harvest times (late spring and early fall). It's important to ask potential providers about their holiday and summer schedules, as some may close or operate on reduced hours. Conversely, demand for school-age summer care can be high. Additionally, many childcare programs incorporate local, seasonal themes into their curriculum, such as gardening, farm animals, and harvest festivals, which can be a great cultural fit for children growing up in the area.