The Best Daycare Centers in Broadview, MT
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Broadview. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Broadview
The Goddard School of Billings
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Billings offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Their highly qualified teachers implement play-based learning with structured curriculum elements, focusing on literacy, STEM, and creative arts. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. With low student-teacher ratios and ongoing staff development, they provide individualized attention and comprehensive progress tracking. Their nutrition program includes healthy meals and snacks, and they maintain rigorous safety protocols including regular drills and secure check-in systems.
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Primrose School of Billings
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Billings delivers the nationally recognized Balanced Learning® approach, combining purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained early education professionals. Their curriculum emphasizes character development, literacy, and hands-on learning experiences. The school features secure facilities with dedicated infant rooms, toddler learning centers, and spacious preschool classrooms. All teachers meet or exceed state qualifications and receive continuous professional development. The school maintains exceptional health and safety standards with comprehensive security systems, regular sanitation protocols, and structured emergency procedures. Parent communication includes daily updates and regular developmental assessments.
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Kid's World Learning Center
Independent
Kid's World Learning Center in nearby Laurel provides comprehensive childcare services with a focus on developmental appropriateness and individualized learning. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum elements with Montessori-inspired hands-on activities, emphasizing social skills, cognitive development, and school readiness. The center features secure, well-maintained facilities with separate age-group areas, large outdoor play spaces, and dedicated learning centers. Experienced teaching staff maintain low child-to-teacher ratios and participate in ongoing early childhood education training. Safety is prioritized with secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The center offers flexible scheduling and maintains strong parent partnerships through regular communication and family involvement opportunities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Broadview, MT
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Broadview, Montana, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Montana, all childcare facilities caring for more than three unrelated children must be licensed by the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), Early Childhood Services Bureau. This includes family daycare homes and childcare centers. Licensed providers in Broadview must meet state standards for staff-to-child ratios, safety inspections, background checks, and health requirements. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the "Child Care Search" tool on the Montana DPHHS website or contact the local Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for Region 5, which serves Yellowstone County and surrounding areas. It's always recommended to ask the provider directly for their license number and to see their most recent inspection report.
Given Broadview's small, rural setting, what types of childcare options are typically available, and are waitlists common?
In a small community like Broadview, options are often limited to licensed family childcare homes or in-home providers, as large childcare centers are uncommon. Many families also rely on smaller, registered family, friend, and neighbor (FFN) care arrangements. Due to the limited number of providers, waitlists are very common and can be lengthy, sometimes several months to a year, especially for infant care. It's crucial to start your search as early as possible. Networking with other local parents through community groups or churches can be invaluable for finding openings or getting referrals to trusted in-home providers who may not be widely advertised.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Broadview, and are there any local or state financial assistance programs available?
In Broadview and similar rural Montana communities, full-time childcare for one child typically ranges from $600 to $900 per month, though infant care is often at the higher end. Costs can vary based on the provider's license type, hours, and whether meals are included. For financial assistance, Montana offers the Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship (BBCCS) program, which is income-based and can significantly reduce costs for eligible families. You apply through the DPHHS. Additionally, some local employers or community organizations may offer stipends or referrals. It's advisable to contact the Montana Child Care Resource and Referral network for the most current information on costs and assistance in your specific area.
How do seasonal factors, like agriculture or harsh winters, impact childcare availability and schedules in Broadview?
Broadview's economy and climate directly impact childcare. During peak agricultural seasons (planting and harvest), some providers may have reduced availability if they or their clients are involved in farm work. Conversely, the harsh Montana winters can lead to frequent closures or delayed openings due to snowstorms and hazardous road conditions, so it's important to discuss a provider's inclement weather policy. Some providers may offer more flexible or extended hours during busy seasons for farm families. Always clarify these seasonal expectations and backup plans during your initial interviews to ensure reliability year-round.
What should I look for when evaluating a home-based daycare in Broadview to ensure quality and safety?
Beyond verifying state licensing, there are key local factors to consider. First, assess the safety of the home environment: check for secure outdoor play areas, smoke/carbon monoxide detectors, and safe storage of cleaning supplies and medications. Given the rural setting, inquire about their emergency plan for medical situations and severe weather, including transportation to a hospital (the nearest major hospital is in Billings, about 30 minutes away). Observe the provider's interaction with children and ask about their daily routine, including outdoor playtime, which is a big part of Montana childhood. Ask for references from other local families. Finally, ensure they are certified in Pediatric First Aid and CPR, as this is especially important given the distance from emergency services.