The Best Daycare Centers in Rexburg, ID
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Rexburg. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Rexburg
Little Lambs & Co.
Independent
Little Lambs & Co. is a highly-regarded local childcare center known for its nurturing environment and comprehensive educational approach. They implement a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates literacy, mathematics, and social-emotional development. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios with qualified early childhood educators, secure entry systems, and age-appropriate learning spaces. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, clean facilities, and excellent communication. The center offers nutritious meals and snacks and maintains strong safety protocols including regular health screenings.
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Teton Literacy Center
Independent
Teton Literacy Center specializes in early literacy development through their innovative preschool program. Their research-based curriculum focuses on phonics, vocabulary, and comprehension skills while maintaining a balanced approach to social and emotional growth. The center employs certified early childhood educators who receive ongoing professional development. Facilities include dedicated literacy centers, interactive learning stations, and safe outdoor play areas. The program is particularly noted for its individualized attention and strong parent involvement through regular progress updates and family literacy events.
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Mountain Bluebird Early Learning Center
Independent
Mountain Bluebird Early Learning Center offers a nature-inspired curriculum that incorporates outdoor exploration and environmental education. Their approach blends Montessori principles with STEM-focused activities, encouraging hands-on learning and curiosity. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, and developmentally appropriate classrooms. Staff includes certified early childhood educators with specialized training in child development. Parents appreciate the center's focus on whole-child development, healthy meal programs, and transparent communication through daily reports and parent portals.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Rexburg, ID
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Rexburg, and are there any local resources to help with affordability?
In Rexburg, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $550 to $750 per month, while toddler care is slightly lower, around $500 to $650 per month. Preschool programs often cost between $400 and $600 monthly. These costs are generally lower than the Idaho state average, reflecting the local economy. For affordability, parents should inquire about multi-child discounts, which many local providers offer. Additionally, the Idaho Child Care Program (ICCP) provides financial assistance to eligible families in Madison County. Brigham Young University-Idaho (BYU-I) students and employees may also have access to subsidized care or referral services through the university's Student Support office.
How long are waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Rexburg, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists in Rexburg can vary significantly by provider and age group. For infant care (0-2 years), waitlists at popular centers can be 3 to 6 months long, especially at facilities affiliated with BYU-I or those with high ratings. For toddler and preschool spots, wait times are often shorter, typically 1 to 3 months. To secure a spot, it's highly recommended to begin your search and get on lists during pregnancy or at least 4-6 months before your needed start date. Contact multiple providers, including both center-based and licensed home daycares. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (usually $25-$50). Following up politely every 4-6 weeks can also help keep your application active.
What specific state licensing requirements and ratios should I look for in a Rexburg childcare provider?
All childcare providers in Rexburg must be licensed by the **Idaho Department of Health and Welfare**. Key requirements and staff-to-child ratios you should verify are: * **Infants (0-24 months):** 1 staff member for every 4 infants. * **Toddlers (24-36 months):** 1 staff member for every 6 toddlers. * **Preschoolers (3-5 years):** 1 staff member for every 10 children. Licensing ensures providers meet standards for safety, staff background checks, health protocols, and training in CPR/First Aid. You can look up a provider's license status, inspection history, and any complaints through the Idaho Child Care Program's online search tool. Many quality providers in Rexburg voluntarily exceed these minimum ratios.
Are there seasonal or part-time childcare options in Rexburg to accommodate student parents at BYU-I?
Yes, the unique academic calendar of BYU-I has led to the development of several flexible childcare options. Many licensed home daycares and some centers offer part-time schedules (e.g., 2-3 days per week) or drop-in care by reservation. "Semester-based" contracts are also common, aligning with BYU-I's track system (Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer). Some providers offer discounted summer-only or intersession rates. Additionally, the BYU-I Student Support Services often maintains a list of student babysitters and nanny-shares, which can be a flexible and cost-effective solution for parents with variable class schedules.
What are the main differences between a licensed childcare center and a licensed family home daycare in Rexburg, and how do I choose?
The two primary licensed options in Rexburg have distinct characteristics: * **Centers** (e.g., Kids Kingdom, Little Learners): Usually larger facilities with multiple classrooms, structured curricula, and multiple staff. They often have more resources and may offer preschool programs. They typically maintain hours like 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. * **Licensed Family Home Daycares:** Operated out of a provider's home, they care for a smaller, mixed-age group (typically 6-12 children total). They often provide a more home-like, flexible environment and may be more accommodating with hours for shift workers. Costs can be slightly lower. To choose, consider your child's temperament (does they thrive in structure or a family setting?), your schedule needs, and your educational priorities. Tour both types, ask about daily routines, staff qualifications, and emergency plans. In Rexburg, both options must meet the same state licensing standards for health and safety.