The Best Daycare Centers in Great Falls, MT
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Great Falls. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Great Falls
Bright Horizons at Great Falls
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Great Falls offers a comprehensive early education program with a research-based curriculum that emphasizes language development, literacy, mathematics, and social-emotional learning. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials and maintains low teacher-to-child ratios. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor play areas designed for different age groups. The center is known for its strong parent communication system, regular developmental assessments, and nutritious meal program that meets USDA guidelines.
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Great Falls Childcare & Learning Center
Independent
This locally-owned childcare center provides a nurturing environment with a play-based learning approach that incorporates Montessori-inspired activities. The center features certified early childhood educators who create individualized learning plans for each child. Safety protocols include secure keypad entry, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and regular safety drills. The facility offers spacious classrooms, a large outdoor playground with safety surfaces, and a dedicated infant care wing with separate sleeping and play areas. Parents praise the center's family-like atmosphere and consistent communication.
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Discovery Kidzone
Independent
Discovery Kidzone offers a structured educational program that balances academic preparation with creative expression and physical development. The center utilizes the Creative Curriculum system, which aligns with state early learning standards and focuses on developmental milestones. Staff members hold degrees in early childhood education and participate in ongoing professional development. The facility includes dedicated art and music rooms, a STEM learning center, and multiple age-appropriate playgrounds. The center is recognized for its inclusive environment and strong community partnerships with local schools and organizations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Great Falls, MT
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Great Falls, MT?
In Great Falls, the cost of full-time childcare varies significantly based on the child's age and the type of facility. For infants (0-2 years), you can expect to pay between $700 and $950 per month at a licensed daycare center. For toddlers and preschoolers (3-5 years), costs typically range from $600 to $800 per month. In-home licensed family childcare providers often charge slightly less, generally ranging from $550 to $750 monthly. These costs are generally lower than the Montana state average, reflecting Great Falls' cost of living. It's important to ask what is included in the tuition, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. Financial assistance may be available through the state's Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship program for qualifying families.
How long are waitlists for quality daycare centers in Great Falls, and how can I secure a spot?
Waitlists for highly-regarded daycare centers and preschools in Great Falls can be substantial, especially for infant care. It is not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months for children under 2 years old. For preschool-age children, waitlists are typically shorter, around 3-6 months. To secure a spot, it is highly recommended to begin your search and get on multiple lists as early as possible, even during pregnancy. When contacting providers, ask specific questions about their list: Is there a fee to join? How often should I check in to maintain my position? How are spots offered? Many parents in Great Falls find that also exploring licensed family childcare homes can provide more immediate openings and a smaller, home-like setting.
What are Montana's licensing requirements for childcare providers, and how can I verify a provider's license in Great Falls?
In Montana, the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) licenses all childcare facilities. Key requirements include background checks for all staff, annual health and safety training, CPR/First Aid certification, and meeting specific child-to-staff ratios (e.g., 4:1 for infants). Providers must also pass regular health, fire, and sanitation inspections. To verify the license and compliance history of any provider in Great Falls, you can use the state's online "Provider Search" tool on the DPHHS website. This public database shows the provider's license status, capacity, any substantiated complaints, and inspection reports. Always choose a licensed provider to ensure a baseline of safety and oversight.
Are there seasonal or part-time childcare options available in Great Falls for parents with irregular schedules?
Yes, while full-time care is most common, Great Falls does offer some flexible options. Several daycare centers and in-home providers offer part-time schedules (e.g., 2-3 days per week), though these spots are limited and may cost more per day than a full-time weekly rate. For truly irregular or drop-in care, your best options are typically licensed family childcare homes that may have occasional daily openings, or specialized drop-in centers, though these are rare in Great Falls. Another valuable local resource is the "Great Falls Childcare Connections" Facebook group, where parents often seek and offer short-term or backup care. For summer, many local preschools and organizations like the YMCA or Great Falls Park and Recreation offer seasonal day camps for school-age children.
What resources are available in Great Falls to help me find and evaluate childcare options?
The primary local resource is Child Care Resources (CCR), a referral agency that serves Cascade County. They maintain a current database of licensed providers in the Great Falls area and offer free, personalized referrals based on your needs (location, hours, child's age). You can contact them by phone or through their website. Additionally, the Great Falls Public Library and the Cascade City-County Health Department often have resource lists. When evaluating a specific provider, beyond checking their state license, plan an in-person tour. Ask about their daily routine, discipline philosophy, staff turnover, and emergency procedures. Talking to other parents at local parks, community centers, or through neighborhood apps like Nextdoor can also provide invaluable firsthand insights into local daycare reputations.
Nearby Cities
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