The Best Daycare Centers in Saint Anthony, ID
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Saint Anthony. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Saint Anthony
Tiny Treasures Learning Center
Independent
Tiny Treasures Learning Center provides a comprehensive early childhood education program with a play-based learning approach. The center features certified early childhood educators with specialized training in developmental milestones. Their curriculum includes literacy development, STEM activities, creative arts, and social-emotional learning. The facility includes secure indoor classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and nutritionally balanced meal programs. They maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios and implement rigorous safety protocols including secure entry systems and comprehensive background checks for all staff.
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Learning Tree Daycare & Preschool
Independent
Learning Tree Daycare & Preschool offers a structured educational environment with a focus on school readiness. Their curriculum incorporates Montessori-inspired elements alongside traditional early learning methods. The center features highly qualified teachers with degrees in early childhood education and ongoing professional development. Facilities include dedicated infant rooms, toddler learning centers, and preschool classrooms with interactive smart boards. They emphasize outdoor learning with nature-based activities and maintain strong parent communication through daily updates and regular progress reports.
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Kid's World Daycare & Learning Center
Regional Childcare Provider
Located in nearby Rexburg (serving the greater Fremont County area including Saint Anthony), Kid's World provides a well-established childcare program with a strong educational foundation. Their curriculum focuses on developmental appropriate practices and includes language development, mathematics readiness, and social skills building. The center features state-licensed teachers, secure facility with surveillance systems, and nutritious meal programs approved by child nutrition specialists. They offer flexible scheduling options and maintain excellent safety records with regular emergency drills and health inspections. Their experienced staff provides individualized attention to support each child's unique developmental journey.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Saint Anthony, ID
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Saint Anthony, Idaho, and how can I verify a facility'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 in Saint Anthony. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and background checks. You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any compliance history by using the "Child Care Search" tool on the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare's official website. It's a crucial first step to ensure you're considering a regulated and monitored facility.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Saint Anthony, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Saint Anthony and the surrounding Fremont County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $500 to $700 per month, while toddler care may be slightly lower, around $450 to $650. Costs can vary based on the type of care (center vs. in-home) and specific services offered. For financial assistance, Idaho's Child Care Program (ICCP) provides subsidies to eligible low-income working families or those in education/training programs. You can apply through the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare's Self-Reliance office. 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 in Saint Anthony, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Saint Anthony, waitlists for licensed daycare centers and popular in-home providers can be significant, often ranging from 3 to 9 months, especially for infant spots. It is highly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a return to work begin their search and get on waitlists during the second trimester of pregnancy, if not earlier. Proactively contacting multiple providers, getting on multiple lists, and following up periodically is the best strategy to secure a spot in this area.
Are there any unique childcare options in Saint Anthony that cater to agricultural or shift-work families common in the region?
Yes, recognizing the local economy which includes farming and shift work at facilities like the Idaho National Laboratory area, some providers offer flexible hours. While not universally available, certain licensed family childcare homes may offer early morning (before 6 AM), evening, or occasional weekend care to accommodate non-traditional schedules. There is also a growing network of in-home "drop-in" or occasional care providers advertised through local Facebook community groups. It's essential to clarify hours, rates, and policies upfront, as these flexible arrangements may differ from standard center-based care.
What resources are available in Saint Anthony to help me evaluate and choose between different childcare options?
A key local resource is the **Eastern Idaho Community Action Partnership (EICAP)**, which serves Fremont County. They can provide referrals to licensed providers and offer guidance on what to look for during a visit. When evaluating options, parents should schedule tours, ask about staff qualifications and turnover, review daily schedules, and inquire about emergency procedures. Also, connect with local parent networks through the "Saint Anthony, Idaho Community" Facebook page or at the Fremont County District Library for firsthand recommendations. Checking with the local school district about preschool partnerships can also be valuable for older toddlers.
Nearby Cities
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