The Best Daycare Centers in Harrison, MT
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Harrison. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Harrison
Butte YMCA Early Head Start & Child Care
YMCA of Butte
The Butte YMCA provides comprehensive early childhood education with a focus on developmental milestones and school readiness. Their curriculum emphasizes social-emotional learning, literacy, and physical development through structured play and educational activities. Staff maintain Montana Early Childhood Project credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The facility features secure access, age-appropriate learning environments, and nutritious meal programs. As a YMCA facility, they offer sliding scale fees and scholarship opportunities, making quality childcare accessible to families throughout the region, including Harrison residents.
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Little Learners Discovery Center
Independent
Little Learners Discovery Center offers a research-based curriculum focused on hands-on learning and individualized development. Their program includes STEM activities, literacy development, and creative arts, with low teacher-to-child ratios ensuring personalized attention. All lead teachers hold early childhood education degrees or Montana Early Childhood Project credentials. The center features secure entry systems, modern learning materials, and spacious outdoor play areas. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, clean facilities, and the nurturing environment that supports children's social and academic growth.
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Creative Kids Learning Center
Independent
Creative Kids Learning Center provides a balanced approach to early childhood education with emphasis on creative expression, cognitive development, and social skills. Their curriculum incorporates Montessori-inspired activities alongside structured learning programs. The center maintains excellent staff retention with teachers averaging 5+ years of experience and holding CPR/first aid certifications. Facilities include secure access controls, age-specific classrooms, and developmentally appropriate playgrounds. The center is noted for its inclusive environment, regular parent updates, and flexible scheduling options that accommodate working families from Harrison and surrounding communities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Harrison, MT
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Harrison, Montana, and how can I verify a provider is 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). This includes family childcare homes and childcare centers. Licensed providers in Harrison must meet state standards for health and safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and ongoing training. To verify a provider's license, you can use the "Find Child Care" search tool on the Montana DPHHS website or contact the Child Care Licensing Bureau directly. Given Harrison's smaller, rural setting, many providers may be licensed family homes, which are a common and regulated option in the area.
How long are waitlists for daycare in Harrison, MT, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the limited number of childcare providers in a small town like Harrison, waitlists can be significant, often several months to a year, especially for infant care. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy. Contact providers directly to understand their specific waitlist procedures—some may require a deposit. Also, consider expanding your search to nearby communities like Pony, Norris, or even the larger hub of Bozeman (about an hour's drive), though this adds a substantial commute. Networking with other local parents can sometimes provide leads on upcoming openings.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare in Harrison, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Harrison and the surrounding rural areas of Montana, full-time daycare costs can vary. For a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $600 to $900 per month for full-time care. Costs in a center setting, if available locally or in a nearby town, can be higher. Financial assistance is primarily available through the state's Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship Program, which is income-based. You apply through the DPHHS. Additionally, some employers or local community organizations may offer limited support. It's crucial to factor in potential costs for extended hours or transportation given the rural location.
Are there any part-time, drop-in, or seasonal childcare options available in Harrison for families with irregular schedules?
Consistent part-time or drop-in care is very challenging to find in Harrison due to the limited provider capacity and the need for providers to maintain full-time enrollments for financial stability. Your best bet is to inquire directly with licensed family homes to see if they have any flexible slots or maintain a list for occasional backup care. For seasonal needs, such as during hunting or summer, planning far in advance is critical. Some parents in rural areas form small, informal co-ops with trusted neighbors or friends, but these are not regulated. There are no formal drop-in childcare centers in Harrison itself.
What should I look for when touring a daycare in a rural community like Harrison, and are there any location-specific considerations?
When touring a daycare in Harrison, beyond standard checks for safety and cleanliness, pay close attention to factors unique to a rural setting. Ask about their emergency preparedness plan for severe weather, wildfires (common in Montana summers), and medical emergencies, given that response times can be longer. Inquire about outdoor play areas—are they secure from wildlife and rural traffic? Also, understand their policy on farm or animal exposure if the home is on a property with livestock. Given the community's size, ask how they facilitate socialization opportunities with other children. Finally, discuss their communication plan for potential road closures or isolation during winter storms, which can impact pick-up and drop-off.