The Best Daycare Centers in Circle, MT
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Circle. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Circle
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center is a highly-regarded early childhood education facility serving eastern Montana communities including Circle. They implement a comprehensive Creative Curriculum that emphasizes developmental milestones through play-based learning. The center features state-certified teachers with Early Childhood Education credentials, maintaining excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Their facility includes secure entry systems, age-appropriate outdoor playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers for different age groups. They provide nutritious meals and snacks through their USDA-approved food program and offer flexible scheduling to accommodate rural families' needs.
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Kiddie Kampus Child Development Center
Independent
Kiddie Kampus has built a strong reputation for quality childcare serving families throughout eastern Montana. Their educational approach combines Montessori principles with traditional early learning, focusing on individualized development plans for each child. The center employs experienced staff with CPR/First Aid certification and ongoing professional development. Safety features include secured facilities, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. They offer structured learning programs with emphasis on literacy, math readiness, and social skills development, along with enrichment activities including music and movement.
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Teddy Bear Den Child Care
Independent
Teddy Bear Den provides quality childcare services to families in the eastern Montana region, including those commuting from Circle. Their program emphasizes hands-on learning through structured play and discovery-based activities. The center maintains small class sizes with qualified early childhood educators who create nurturing, stimulating environments. They feature modern security systems, sanitization protocols, and age-appropriate learning materials. Their curriculum focuses on school readiness skills while promoting social-emotional development. The facility includes separate nap areas, indoor gross motor spaces, and fenced outdoor play areas designed for different age groups.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Circle, MT
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Circle, MT, and how do I find them?
In Circle, the primary licensed childcare options are Family Childcare Homes (caring for up to 6 children in a provider's residence) and possibly smaller Group Childcare Homes or Centers, though the latter are less common in rural areas like McCone County. To find licensed providers, your best resource is the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) Child Care Licensing Program. You can search their online provider database or contact the Eastern Service Area Office directly. Additionally, local resources like the Circle Public School District office, the Circle Chamber of Commerce, or community bulletin boards at the Town Pump or the McCone County Courthouse often have information on local providers.
What is the typical cost for full-time daycare in Circle, and is there any financial assistance available?
Given Circle's rural setting and lower cost of living compared to Montana's cities, full-time daycare typically ranges from $100 to $200 per week per child, though rates vary based on the provider, the child's age, and hours. Infant care is often at the higher end. For financial assistance, Montana offers the Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship (BBCS) program for eligible families based on income, work, or school attendance requirements. You can apply through the DPHHS. Local organizations or churches may also offer occasional subsidies or sliding scale fees. It's crucial to discuss costs and potential assistance directly with providers, as options in a small community can be limited.
Are waitlists common for daycare in Circle, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common due to the limited number of providers in a small town like Circle. It is strongly recommended to begin your search as early as possible—ideally 6 to 12 months before you need care, especially for infant spots, which are the most scarce. Many in-home providers have small, consistent groups of children, so openings may only occur when a family moves away or a child ages into preschool. Contacting every available provider and getting on multiple waitlists is a practical strategy. Be persistent and check back periodically, as plans can change.
What are Montana's key licensing requirements for childcare providers that I should verify as a parent?
Montana requires all licensed providers to pass background checks, complete pediatric first aid and CPR certification, and finish pre-service training in health, safety, and child development. They must also meet specific ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants in a home setting) and follow safe sleep practices for infants. Licensed homes are inspected annually. As a parent, you have the right to ask to see the provider's current license, which should be posted. You can also verify a provider's license status and review any past licensing violations through the Montana DPHHS website. This due diligence is essential for your child's safety.
How does the local school district's preschool or kindergarten schedule impact childcare needs in Circle?
The Circle Public School District offers preschool for 4-year-olds and kindergarten, which typically operate on a partial-day schedule (e.g., mornings or afternoons). This creates a significant need for "wrap-around" childcare to cover the remaining hours before or after school, as well as full care on non-school days. Many local in-home daycare providers offer before-and-after-school care and transportation to/from the Circle Elementary School. It's important to discuss your specific school schedule needs with providers early on. Planning for summer break, school holidays, and teacher in-service days is also crucial, as some providers may adjust their availability or offer special programs during these times.