The Best Daycare Centers in Fairfield, MT
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Fairfield. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Fairfield
Fairfield Kids Club
Fairfield School District
Fairfield Kids Club operates as part of the Fairfield School District, providing high-quality early childhood education and childcare services. The program focuses on school readiness through a structured curriculum that emphasizes literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional development. Certified early childhood educators implement age-appropriate learning activities in a safe, nurturing environment. The center benefits from being integrated with the school system, allowing for smooth transitions to elementary education. Facilities include dedicated classrooms, outdoor play areas, and access to school resources. Parent communication is prioritized through regular updates and family engagement events.
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Teton Tot Spot
Independent
Located in nearby Choteau (approximately 15 miles from Fairfield), Teton Tot Spot serves families throughout the Fairfield area with comprehensive childcare services. The center employs state-certified early childhood professionals who implement a play-based learning curriculum aligned with Montana Early Learning Standards. Special features include secure facilities with keypad entry, nutritious meal programs, and structured developmental activities. The center maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios and emphasizes individualized attention. Parents consistently praise the caring environment, experienced staff, and strong focus on child development milestones.
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Great Falls Early Learning Center
Independent
Serving families from Fairfield and surrounding communities (approximately 35 miles away), Great Falls Early Learning Center offers a comprehensive educational childcare program. The center features a research-based curriculum that combines Montessori principles with traditional early childhood education methods. Certified teachers with degrees in early childhood education provide individualized learning plans and maintain detailed developmental progress tracking. Facilities include modern classrooms, secure outdoor playgrounds, and specialized learning centers for arts, science, and literacy. The center is known for its strong safety protocols, experienced staff retention, and excellent parent communication systems.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Fairfield, MT
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Fairfield, Montana, and how can I verify a provider's status?
In Montana, all childcare facilities caring for more than three unrelated children must be licensed by the state's Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), Early Childhood Services Bureau. This includes family daycare homes and childcare centers. Licensed providers in Fairfield must meet standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and ongoing training. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the "Find Child Care" search tool on the Montana DPHHS website or contact the Child Care Licensing Specialist for the region directly. It's highly recommended to only consider licensed providers to ensure your child's safety and a regulated standard of care.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in Fairfield, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Fairfield, waitlists for licensed daycare providers can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for infant care. It's advisable to begin your search and get on multiple lists as early as possible, even during pregnancy. When contacting providers, ask specific questions about their current list length, estimated timeline, and any fees to hold a spot. Also, explore all options, including licensed family homes in Fairfield and neighboring towns like Choteau or Dutton. Being flexible with your start date can sometimes help secure an opening sooner.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Fairfield, MT?
Childcare costs in rural Montana like Fairfield are generally lower than in urban areas but can still be a significant portion of a family's budget. For full-time care (5 days a week), you can expect to pay approximately $600 to $850 per month for an infant or toddler at a licensed family daycare home. Center-based care, if available locally, may be slightly higher. It's important to inquire about what's included in the weekly rate (meals, snacks, supplies). Montana offers financial assistance through the Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship program for eligible families, which can substantially reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Are there any part-time, drop-in, or after-school childcare options available in Fairfield?
Options for non-traditional or part-time care in Fairfield are very limited. Most licensed family homes prioritize full-time, consistent schedules to maintain their enrollment and income. For after-school care, your primary resource is the Fairfield Public School district. They may offer structured programs for school-age children. For occasional drop-in or part-time needs, your best bet is to network within the community—ask other parents, check community bulletin boards, or inquire at local churches for potential babysitting co-ops or trusted individual babysitters. Planning ahead for this type of care is crucial.
What local resources or organizations in Fairfield can help me find and evaluate childcare?
A key local resource is the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency that serves Teton County. While not based in Fairfield, agencies like Zero to Five Montana provide free referrals and support to parents statewide. They can give you a list of licensed providers in and around Fairfield. Additionally, connecting with other parents through the Fairfield community Facebook page or local groups is invaluable for personal recommendations and insights. For evaluating quality, look for providers participating in Montana's voluntary quality rating system, "STARS to Quality," which indicates a commitment to higher standards beyond basic licensing.