The Best Daycare Centers in Moscow, ID
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Moscow. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Moscow
University of Idaho Children's Center
University of Idaho
The University of Idaho Children's Center is a highly-regarded early childhood education facility that serves both university affiliates and community families. With a research-based curriculum focused on developmental milestones, the center employs degreed early childhood educators who implement play-based learning approaches. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Their program emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy foundations, and STEM exploration through hands-on activities. As a university-affiliated center, they maintain rigorous safety protocols and ongoing staff development.
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Palouse Discovery Science Center Preschool
Palouse Discovery Science Center
Located just across the state line in Pullman (serving Moscow families), this science-focused preschool offers a unique STEM-based curriculum that integrates hands-on scientific exploration with early childhood education. The program emphasizes inquiry-based learning, problem-solving skills, and developmental appropriate science activities. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive specialized training in science education methods. The facility includes interactive science exhibits, dedicated learning labs, and outdoor discovery spaces. Their approach fosters curiosity and critical thinking while meeting all early learning standards.
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Kindercare Learning Center - Pullman
Kindercare Education
This nationally accredited Kindercare center serves Moscow families from its nearby Pullman location, offering a comprehensive early childhood program with a balanced learning approach. Their curriculum includes literacy development, mathematics, science, and social studies through structured and play-based activities. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers in each classroom. Staff members hold early childhood credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. The program emphasizes character development, social skills, and school readiness with regular progress reporting to parents.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Moscow, ID
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Moscow, Idaho?
In Moscow, the cost of full-time childcare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For infants and toddlers, you can expect to pay between $800 and $1,200 per month at licensed centers. Preschool-age children (3-5 years) typically cost between $700 and $950 per month. Home-based daycare providers (licensed family childcare homes) often offer slightly lower rates, ranging from $600 to $900 monthly. These costs are generally lower than in larger Idaho cities like Boise but have been rising. It's important to note that the University of Idaho's Children's Center, which serves university affiliates, operates on a sliding scale based on income. Many facilities require a registration fee and may charge extra for meals or special activities.
How can I find and verify licensed childcare providers in Moscow?
The primary resource for finding licensed childcare in Moscow is IdahoSTARS, a program run by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. You can use their online search tool (childcare.idahostars.org) to filter by location (Moscow), age group, and type of care (center or family home). All licensed providers in Idaho must meet state standards for safety, staff-to-child ratios, and health practices. You can verify a provider's license status, view any past compliance reports, and see their quality rating (1 to 5 stars) through the same IdahoSTARS website. Additionally, the Moscow Parks and Recreation Department offers licensed preschool and after-school programs, and the Latah County Public Health Department can be a local contact for questions about regulations.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Moscow, and how should I plan ahead?
Yes, waitlists are very common for infant and toddler spots at Moscow's daycare centers, especially at highly-rated facilities and those affiliated with the University of Idaho. It is not unusual for waitlists to be 6 to 12 months long for infants. To plan ahead, expectant parents are strongly advised to begin contacting and touring centers during the second trimester of pregnancy. For preschool-age spots, waitlists tend to be shorter (a few months), but popular programs still fill up quickly. When you join a waitlist, ask about the deposit policy (if any), how often you should check in, and whether the list is prioritized for university employees or siblings of current students.
What childcare resources or financial assistance are available for low-income families in Moscow?
Several resources are available for qualifying families in Moscow. The Idaho Child Care Program (ICCP) provides state-subsidized assistance to low-income families who are working, in school, or in job training. Eligibility is based on income and family size, and you can apply through the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. Local organizations like the Community Action Center in Moscow can help with the application process and may offer additional support. Furthermore, some local childcare providers offer limited sliding-scale spots or scholarships. The University of Idaho's Children's Center also has a priority enrollment and fee structure for student-parents, who may qualify for additional grants through the university's financial aid office.
What are the options for part-time, drop-in, or after-school care in Moscow?
Moscow offers several part-time and after-school options. For preschool-age children, many centers and home-based providers offer half-day (morning or afternoon) programs, typically 2-5 days a week. The Moscow School District does not provide on-site before/after-school care for elementary students, but several community organizations fill this gap. The Moscow Parks and Recreation Department operates a popular after-school recreation program called "Rec Kids" at the Hamilton Indoor Recreation Center, which includes transportation from some schools. The University of Idaho's Vandal Kids program also offers after-school care and summer camps. For drop-in or occasional care, options are more limited; a few licensed family homes may offer this flexibility, but it's essential to call and confirm availability and pre-registration requirements well in advance.