The Best Daycare Centers in Moore, ID
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Moore. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Moore
Mountain River Montessori
Independent
Mountain River Montessori offers authentic Montessori education in a nurturing environment just 15 miles from Moore. The center features certified Montessori teachers with specialized training in child development, mixed-age classrooms that promote peer learning, and a comprehensive curriculum focusing on practical life skills, sensorial development, language, mathematics, and cultural studies. Their beautiful facility includes spacious classrooms with natural materials, extensive outdoor learning environments, and garden areas where children engage in hands-on learning. The low student-teacher ratios ensure individualized attention, and their emphasis on independence and self-directed learning has earned them excellent parent satisfaction ratings throughout Butte County.
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Little Lambs Preschool & Childcare
Independent
Little Lambs provides comprehensive childcare services with a strong educational foundation, serving families throughout southeastern Idaho. Their developmentally appropriate curriculum includes STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, certified early childhood educators, and age-appropriate learning environments. They maintain excellent staff-to-child ratios and offer nutritious meal programs. With over 8 years of operation, they've built a reputation for consistent quality care, regular parent communication, and a warm, Christian-based environment that emphasizes character development alongside academic readiness.
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ABC Academy Early Learning Center
ABC Academy
ABC Academy is a well-established early learning center with a comprehensive educational approach serving the broader southeastern Idaho region. Their research-based curriculum includes Creative Curriculum components, literacy-focused activities, and hands-on learning experiences. The center features state-certified teachers, modern security systems including surveillance and secure check-in procedures, and purpose-built classrooms designed for different age groups. They offer extended hours to accommodate working families and provide transportation services for school-age children. With strong parent satisfaction ratings and 15 years of operation, they've demonstrated consistent quality in early childhood education, safety protocols, and developmental programming.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Moore, ID
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Moore, Idaho, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
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 Moore must meet state standards for safety (like fire and building codes), staff-to-child ratios, health and sanitation, background checks for all employees, and ongoing training. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the "Child Care Search" tool on the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare website. It's also a good practice to ask the provider directly for their license number and any recent inspection reports. Given Moore's small, rural setting, many providers may be licensed family homes, which are a common and regulated option in the area.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in Moore, and what can I do to secure a spot for my child?
Due to the limited number of childcare options in a small town like Moore, waitlists can be significant, often ranging from 3 to 9 months, especially for infant care. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. When contacting providers, be proactive: ask about their specific waitlist process, if there's a fee to join, and how often you should check in. Also, consider expanding your search to nearby communities like Arco or Idaho Falls, which may have more facilities but potentially longer commutes. Building a relationship with local providers by visiting and expressing genuine interest can sometimes help.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for a toddler in Moore, Idaho?
Childcare costs in Moore are generally lower than in Idaho's urban centers, but options are fewer. For a toddler (ages 1-3), you can expect to pay an average of $500 to $700 per month for full-time care in a licensed family childcare home. A center-based program, which would likely require travel to a larger town like Arco or Idaho Falls, could range from $650 to $900 per month. These are estimates, and prices vary based on the provider's services, hours, and included amenities (like meals). It's important to ask for a detailed breakdown of costs, including registration fees, supply fees, and policies for late pickups or absences.
Are there any state or local financial assistance programs to help with childcare costs for families in Moore?
Yes, the primary resource is the Idaho Child Care Program (ICCP), a state-administered subsidy for eligible low- and moderate-income families. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and reason for care (such as employment or education). You can apply through the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. Additionally, some providers may offer sliding scale fees based on income, so it's worth asking directly. For military families or those connected to the Idaho National Laboratory (a major regional employer), there may be specific referral services or assistance programs. Checking with the local Community Action Partnership agency in the region can also provide guidance on available support.
What are the most common types of childcare available in Moore, and what are their pros and cons?
In a rural community like Moore, the most common options are licensed family childcare homes and relative/nanny care. Licensed family homes offer a home-like setting with mixed-age groups, often with more flexible hours and potentially lower costs. They are great for building close relationships but may have limited spots. Center-based care is not available in Moore itself; parents typically commute to Arco (approx. 15 miles) or Idaho Falls (approx. 70 miles). Centers offer structured curricula, multiple staff, and more robust facilities but involve significant travel. "License-exempt" care (like care by a relative or friend in their home for fewer than 4 kids) is also common but is not regulated by the state, so parents must conduct their own thorough vetting for safety and quality.