The Best Daycare Centers in Gooding, ID
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Gooding. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Gooding
Little Lambs Preschool & Daycare
Little Lambs Preschool & Daycare
Little Lambs Preschool & Daycare is a locally-owned and operated facility that has served Gooding families for over a decade. They offer a comprehensive early childhood education program with a play-based learning approach that emphasizes social-emotional development alongside academic readiness. The center features qualified early childhood educators, low teacher-to-child ratios, and a safe, nurturing environment. Their curriculum includes age-appropriate activities, outdoor play in secure playgrounds, and strong parent communication. Specializing in both full-time childcare and preschool programs, they maintain excellent safety records and have built strong community relationships through consistent, quality care.
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Stepping Stones Child Care & Learning Center
Stepping Stones Child Care
Located in nearby Twin Falls, Stepping Stones serves families throughout the Magic Valley region including Gooding. This established center offers a research-based curriculum that balances structured learning with creative exploration. Features include state-certified teachers, comprehensive security systems, nutritious meal programs, and developmentally appropriate classrooms. Their educational approach focuses on whole-child development with emphasis on literacy, STEM activities, and social skills. The facility includes modern learning environments, age-segregated playgrounds, and experienced staff with extensive early childhood education backgrounds. Parent satisfaction is consistently high due to their transparent communication and commitment to quality care.
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Magic Valley Montessori School
Magic Valley Montessori
Magic Valley Montessori provides authentic Montessori education to children from infancy through elementary years, serving Gooding and surrounding communities. The school features AMI-trained guides, carefully prepared Montessori environments, and individualized learning plans. Their curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, independence development, and respect for each child's unique learning pace. The facility includes beautiful outdoor learning spaces, specialized Montessori materials, and peaceful, orderly classrooms designed to foster concentration and love of learning. Safety protocols are comprehensive, and teacher qualifications exceed state requirements. The school maintains strong parent partnerships through regular conferences and classroom observations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Gooding, ID
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Gooding, Idaho, and how can I verify a facility'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. This includes family childcare homes and centers. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and background checks. To verify a provider's license in Gooding, you can use the Idaho Child Care Search tool on the Department's website or contact the South Central Public Health District office, which oversees Gooding County. It's highly recommended to only use licensed providers, as they are regularly inspected. You can also ask the provider directly for their license number and check for any recent violations.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Gooding, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Gooding and the surrounding rural areas, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $500 to $700 per month, while toddler care may be slightly lower, around $450 to $600 per month. These costs are generally lower than in Idaho's larger metropolitan areas but can vary based on the type of care (center vs. home-based) and specific services offered. For financial assistance, Idaho's Child Care Program (ICCP) provides subsidies to eligible low-income families. 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.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers or popular in-home providers in Gooding, and when should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of providers in a smaller community like Gooding, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant care. It's not uncommon for popular centers or highly-regarded family childcare homes 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. Be proactive: contact multiple providers, get on multiple waitlists (there may be a small fee), and check in periodically for updates. Flexibility with your start date can also improve your chances of securing a spot sooner.
What are the main types of childcare options available specifically within the city limits of Gooding, ID?
Within Gooding city limits, parents primarily have two options: licensed family childcare homes and the local childcare center. Family homes are smaller, often caring for mixed-age groups in a home-like setting, which can be beneficial for siblings. The center-based option provides a more structured, classroom-like environment. Due to Gooding's rural nature, there are fewer large corporate chains; most providers are locally owned and operated. Some families also explore options in nearby towns like Wendell or Shoshone, but this adds commute time. For school-age children, the Gooding School District may offer before and after-school programs at its elementary schools.
Are there any state or local regulations regarding caregiver-to-child ratios that I should be aware of when choosing care in Gooding?
Yes, Idaho state law sets strict staff-to-child ratios based on age. For licensed providers in Gooding, these are: 1 caregiver for every 3 children under 2 years old; 1:5 for children aged 2; 1:7 for children aged 3; and 1:10 for children 4-5 years old. For mixed-age groups, the ratio applies to the youngest child present. These ratios are crucial for safety and quality of care. A reputable provider will readily share this information and will not exceed these limits. During your visit, observe if the caregivers seem overwhelmed or if children are adequately supervised—this is a key indicator of whether the facility adheres to these important standards.