The Best Daycare Centers in Garrison, MT
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Garrison. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Garrison
Little Learners Academy
Independent
Little Learners Academy is Garrison's premier early childhood education center, offering a comprehensive developmental curriculum for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years. The center features a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation, focusing on social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM exploration. Certified early childhood educators maintain low teacher-to-child ratios, with all staff trained in CPR, First Aid, and Montana early childhood standards. The facility includes secure indoor classrooms, a fenced outdoor playground with age-appropriate equipment, and a nutritious meal program. Parents praise the center's warm, family-like atmosphere and strong communication about child development milestones.
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Butte Head Start - Early Childhood Center
Action for Eastern Montana
Serving families throughout Powell County including Garrison, Butte Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education with a focus on school readiness for children from low-income families. The program employs a research-based curriculum emphasizing literacy, numeracy, and social skills development. All teachers hold early childhood degrees and receive ongoing professional development. The center offers comprehensive services including health screenings, dental care, nutrition programs, and family support services. Safety is prioritized with secure facilities, regular drills, and thorough background checks. The program is particularly noted for its inclusive approach and support for children with special needs.
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Deer Lodge Children's Center
Independent
Located just 15 miles from Garrison, Deer Lodge Children's Center serves families throughout Powell County with a balanced approach to early childhood education. The center combines Montessori-inspired activities with traditional preschool curriculum, focusing on individualized learning plans for each child. Features include a literacy-rich environment, hands-on science and math activities, creative arts programs, and outdoor nature exploration. The facility maintains state-licensed safety standards with secure entry systems, comprehensive health protocols, and emergency preparedness training. Staff are qualified early childhood professionals with low turnover rates, and the center is praised for its engaging learning environment and strong parent-teacher partnerships.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Garrison, MT
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Garrison, Montana, and how can I verify a provider is licensed?
In Garrison, Montana, all childcare facilities caring for more than three unrelated children must be licensed by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), Early Childhood Services Bureau. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and background checks. For in-home providers caring for three or fewer children, registration is optional but recommended. 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 always a good practice to ask the provider to see their current license certificate during a tour.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers or in-home providers in the Garrison area, and when should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of childcare options in a small, rural community like Garrison, waitlists can be significant and unpredictable. For popular in-home providers or the limited center-based options, it's not uncommon for waitlists to be 6 to 12 months long, especially for infant care. We strongly recommend that expecting parents or families planning a move to the area begin their search as early as possible—ideally during the first or second trimester of pregnancy. Contact every potential provider to get on their list, even if their current availability is unknown. Networking with other local parents through community groups can also provide leads on potential openings.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare for an infant or toddler in Garrison, MT?
Childcare costs in Garrison are generally lower than in Montana's larger cities but can vary based on the type of care. For a licensed in-home daycare, you might expect to pay between $600 and $800 per month for full-time infant or toddler care. A licensed childcare center, if one is available in the area, may range from $700 to $900 monthly. These are estimates, and rates are set by individual providers. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate (e.g., meals, snacks, supplies). Additionally, you may be eligible for financial assistance through the Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship program, which helps income-eligible families across Montana.
Are there any state or local resources in Montana to help me find and evaluate childcare options near Garrison?
Yes, the primary resource is the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services. Their "Find Child Care" online database allows you to search for licensed and registered providers by city, county, or zip code. You can filter by type of care (center, group home, family home) and see their licensing history. For more personalized assistance, you can contact Child Care Resources, a referral agency that serves Montana. While not based in Garrison, they can provide guidance over the phone. Locally, check with the Garrison Elementary School office or the Powell County Health Department, as staff may have knowledge of community providers.
What are some key questions to ask a potential in-home daycare provider in Garrison during an interview or tour?
When touring an in-home provider in Garrison, beyond general questions about daily routines and philosophy, ask specific questions relevant to the rural setting and state regulations. Essential questions include: "Are you licensed or registered with the state, and may I see your certificate?" "What is your backup plan if you are sick or have an emergency, given the limited substitute options here?" "How do you handle outdoor play and safety, considering local wildlife and weather?" "What is your policy on transporting children (e.g., for field trips or school pickup)?" Also, inquire about their emergency preparedness plan for scenarios like wildfires or severe winter storms, which are relevant to the area. Always ask for and contact at least two current references from other local families.