The Best Daycare Centers in Broadus, MT
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Broadus. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Broadus
Powder River Preschool
Independent
Powder River Preschool is a highly-regarded local childcare facility serving the Broadus community with a comprehensive early childhood education program. The center focuses on play-based learning combined with structured academic preparation, emphasizing social-emotional development and kindergarten readiness. Staff members hold early childhood education certifications and maintain low teacher-to-child ratios. The facility features age-appropriate learning environments, outdoor play areas, and a curriculum that incorporates literacy, mathematics, and creative arts. Known for its family-oriented approach and strong community connections, this center has built an excellent reputation for quality care and educational excellence in rural Montana.
Daycare Services:
Little Log Schoolhouse
Independent
Located in nearby Ekalaka, Little Log Schoolhouse serves families throughout Powder River County with a comprehensive childcare program. The center offers a developmentally appropriate curriculum that balances structured learning with creative exploration. Their infant and toddler programs focus on sensory development and attachment-based care, while preschool and pre-K programs emphasize literacy, numeracy, and social skills. The facility features secure indoor learning spaces, fenced outdoor play areas, and nutritious meal programs. With certified early childhood educators and strong parent communication systems, this center has earned praise for its nurturing environment and educational quality, making it a popular choice for families in the broader region.
Daycare Services:
Building Blocks Learning Center
Regional Childcare Network
Building Blocks Learning Center is a well-established regional childcare provider serving families across eastern Montana, including those from Broadus seeking comprehensive early education services. The center employs a research-based curriculum that integrates STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. Their state-licensed facility features modern security systems, dedicated age-appropriate classrooms, and extensive outdoor learning environments. Staff members hold degrees in early childhood education and participate in ongoing professional development. The center offers flexible scheduling options and maintains excellent safety records, with particular strength in their school-age programs and summer enrichment camps that serve families throughout the region.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Broadus, MT
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Broadus, MT, and how do I find them?
In Broadus and the surrounding Powder River County, licensed childcare options primarily consist of Family Child Care Homes (FCCHs), which are small, home-based programs, and potentially a limited number of Group Child Care Homes or Centers. Due to the rural nature of the area, dedicated childcare centers are uncommon. The best resource for finding licensed providers is Montana's "Best Beginnings" Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) network. You can contact them online or by phone for a current, vetted list of providers in the Broadus area. Additionally, checking with local community hubs like the Powder River County Library, the school district office, or community bulletin boards at Town & Country Foods can yield leads on both licensed and legally license-exempt care options.
How long are typical waitlists for childcare in Broadus, and when should I start looking?
Given the limited number of providers in a small, rural community like Broadus, waitlists can be significant and unpredictable. It is not uncommon for a well-regarded Family Child Care Home to have a waitlist of several months to over a year, especially for infant and toddler spots. Parents are strongly advised to begin their search as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 6-12 months before their needed start date. Proactively contacting all available providers to get on multiple lists is a key strategy. Be prepared for flexibility, as availability often depends on the aging-out of current children in the small, stable groups these home-based providers maintain.
What are the average costs for full-time childcare in Broadus, and is there any financial assistance available?
While costs can vary by provider, full-time childcare in Broadus for an infant or toddler typically ranges from approximately $600 to $900 per month. Rates for preschool-aged children may be slightly lower. These costs are often more affordable than in Montana's urban centers but still represent a significant portion of a household budget. Financial assistance is available through the state's Best Beginnings Scholarship Program (formerly the Child Care Assistance Program), which helps eligible low- and moderate-income families pay for childcare. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work or training requirements. You can apply through the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS). Some providers may also offer sibling discounts.
What should I look for when visiting a potential in-home daycare provider in Broadus?
When visiting a Family Child Care Home in Broadus, first verify their current license is posted and check its status online with Montana DPHHS. Observe the home's safety: check for covered outlets, secured cabinets, safe sleep practices for infants, and a clean, child-proofed environment. Ask about the provider's daily schedule, educational philosophy, meal plans, and policy on sick children. Given the rural setting, inquire about outdoor play space and inclement weather plans. It's also crucial to discuss emergency procedures specific to the area, such as communication plans during severe weather or medical emergencies when you might be 30+ minutes away. Ask for references from current or past parents in the community.
Are there any part-time, drop-in, or after-school care options for school-aged children in Broadus?
Structured part-time or drop-in childcare is extremely limited in Broadus due to the scale of operations. Most home-based providers prioritize full-time, consistent schedules for younger children. For school-aged children, the primary after-school option is typically the program offered by the Broadus Public School District. This may operate in conjunction with the 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant or other school-based initiatives, providing care, homework help, and activities immediately after school until 5:30 or 6:00 PM. Availability can be limited, so contact the school office early. For occasional drop-in needs, parents often rely on informal networks with family, friends, or trusted neighbors, which is a common childcare solution in close-knit rural communities like Broadus.