The Best Daycare Centers in Florence, MT
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Florence. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Florence
Little Acorns Childcare & Preschool
Independent
Little Acorns is a highly-regarded local childcare center serving the Florence community with a play-based educational approach. The center features a comprehensive early childhood curriculum that emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy readiness, and hands-on learning experiences. Staff members hold early childhood education credentials and maintain low teacher-to-child ratios. The facility includes secure indoor learning environments and a large, fenced outdoor play area with age-appropriate equipment. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, regular communication, and the center's focus on individualized attention for each child's developmental needs.
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The Goddard School of Missoula
Goddard Systems, Inc.
Located approximately 15 miles from Florence, The Goddard School of Missoula serves families throughout the Bitterroot Valley with a nationally recognized F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience). The curriculum focuses on play-based learning while incorporating STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) concepts. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems, dedicated age-appropriate classrooms, and comprehensive safety protocols. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and participate in ongoing professional development. The school offers flexible scheduling options and maintains strong parent partnerships through daily communication and progress updates.
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ABC Academy of Lolo
Independent
ABC Academy of Lolo, located approximately 8 miles from Florence, provides comprehensive early childhood education with a balanced approach to academic preparation and social development. The center utilizes Creative Curriculum alongside Montessori-inspired activities to foster independence and critical thinking skills. The facility includes modern classrooms, a commercial kitchen providing nutritious meals, and secure outdoor play spaces designed for different age groups. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified with ongoing training in child development best practices. The academy is noted for its inclusive environment, strong community connections, and commitment to preparing children for kindergarten success through structured learning activities and individualized attention.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Florence, MT
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Florence, MT, 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 Florence must meet specific standards for staff-to-child ratios, safety inspections, background checks, health and sanitation, and ongoing training. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the "Child Care Search" tool on the Montana DPHHS website or contact the Early Childhood Services Bureau directly. It's highly recommended to only use licensed care, as this ensures a baseline of health, safety, and quality oversight.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers or in-home providers in the Florence area, and when should I start looking?
Due to limited childcare options in Florence and the surrounding Bitterroot Valley, waitlists can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for infant care. Many popular in-home providers and the few local centers maintain ongoing waitlists. Parents are advised to begin their search as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before their needed start date. Be proactive: contact multiple providers, get on multiple lists, and follow up periodically. Exploring options in nearby Stevensville or Hamilton may also be necessary, though waitlists there can be similarly long.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare for an infant or toddler in Florence, MT?
Childcare costs in Florence are generally lower than in Montana's major urban areas but have been rising. For a licensed family daycare home, you can expect to pay approximately $650 to $850 per month for full-time infant or toddler care. A licensed childcare center, if available locally or in a neighboring town, may range from $750 to $950 per month. These are estimates, and rates vary based on the provider's experience, program offerings, and included amenities (meals, etc.). It's important to ask for a detailed breakdown of fees, including any registration, supply, or late-pickup charges.
Are there any state or local programs in Montana that help with childcare costs for families in Florence?
Yes, eligible families in Florence can apply for the Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship (BBCCS) through the State of Montana. This program provides financial assistance to low- and moderate-income families to help pay for licensed or registered childcare. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and reason for care (work, school, etc.). You can apply online through the DPHHS website. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees based on income. It's also worth checking with local community organizations or employers, as some may have partnerships or referral networks.
What are some key questions to ask when touring a potential daycare in Florence, given the rural setting?
Beyond standard questions about curriculum and safety, parents in Florence should ask location-specific questions. These include: "What is your plan for emergency situations or severe weather, given our rural location and potential for road closures?" "How do you handle communication during power or internet outages?" "What is your policy on outdoor play, and how do you manage risks from local wildlife (like deer ticks or occasional wildlife sightings)?" Also inquire about flexibility for agricultural or variable work schedules common in the area, and whether they participate in any local food programs or use produce from family gardens. Understanding their approach to these rural living factors is crucial for your child's safety and your peace of mind.