The Best Daycare Centers in Hays, MT
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Hays. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Hays
Little People's Place
Independent
Little People's Place is a highly-regarded childcare center serving the Hays area from nearby Havre, approximately 30 miles away. They offer a comprehensive developmental curriculum that focuses on social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth through structured play and learning activities. The center features state-licensed teachers with early childhood education credentials, low child-to-teacher ratios, and a secure facility with monitored access. Their program includes age-appropriate learning centers, outdoor play areas, and nutritious meals through the USDA food program. Parents consistently praise the center's warm, nurturing environment and experienced staff who provide individualized attention to each child's developmental needs.
Daycare Services:
Bear Paw Preschool & Daycare
Independent
Bear Paw Preschool & Daycare serves families throughout the Havre area, including Hays residents, with a strong educational foundation program. They employ certified early childhood educators who implement a play-based learning curriculum aligned with Montana Early Learning Standards. The facility features modern classrooms, secure entry systems, and developmentally appropriate learning materials. Their program emphasizes literacy development, social skills, and kindergarten readiness through structured activities and free play. The center maintains excellent safety records with regular drills and comprehensive background checks for all staff. Parent reviews highlight the center's clean facilities, consistent communication, and the staff's dedication to creating a positive learning environment.
Daycare Services:
Creative Kids Learning Center
Independent
Creative Kids Learning Center provides quality childcare services to families in the broader Blaine County area, including Hays, located approximately 20 miles away. They offer a balanced curriculum that combines academic preparation with creative expression and physical development. The center features qualified early childhood educators with specialized training in child development and age-appropriate teaching methods. Their facility includes secure indoor learning environments, fenced outdoor play areas, and dedicated spaces for different age groups. The program incorporates STEM activities, art exploration, music, and movement to support holistic development. Parents appreciate the center's flexible scheduling options, transparent communication, and focus on building foundational skills through engaging, hands-on learning experiences.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Hays, MT
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Hays, Montana, and how do I find them?
In Hays, Montana, licensed childcare options are primarily Family Child Care Homes (FCCH), which are small, home-based programs typically caring for up to 6-12 children. Due to the rural nature of the area, there are no large childcare centers. To find licensed providers, you should contact the Blaine County Health Department or use the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) Early Childhood Services Bureau online provider search. Given the limited options, many families also rely on trusted, unlicensed family, friend, and neighbor (FFN) care. Networking within the local community, such as through the Hays-Lodge Pole School District or community bulletin boards, is often essential for discovering all available childcare arrangements.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with childcare costs in Hays, and how do I qualify?
Yes, the primary program is the Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship (BBCS), administered by the State of Montana. This subsidy helps eligible low- and moderate-income families pay for licensed or registered childcare. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and reasons for care (work, school, etc.). Given the lower average incomes in rural areas like Hays, many families may qualify. You must apply through the DPHHS Self-Service Portal or your local Office of Public Assistance. It's important to note that the provider you choose must be willing to participate in the scholarship program. Due to provider scarcity, securing a spot with a participating provider can be a challenge, so early application is recommended.
What is the typical cost for full-time childcare in Hays, and are waitlists common?
For licensed Family Child Care Homes in Hays and surrounding Blaine County, full-time weekly rates for an infant or toddler typically range from $120 to $180. Rates for preschool-aged children may be slightly lower. These costs are generally below the state average but can represent a significant portion of a family's income in this rural area. Waitlists are extremely common and can be lengthy, often several months to over a year, due to the severe shortage of licensed providers. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible, even during pregnancy. Many providers in small communities like Hays fill openings through word-of-mouth referrals from existing families.
What specific licensing requirements and safety regulations do Montana childcare providers near Hays have to follow?
All licensed providers in Montana, including those in Hays, must comply with state regulations set by DPHHS. Key requirements include: passing comprehensive background checks for all adults in the home, completing pediatric first aid and CPR certification, undergoing health and fire/safety inspections of the home, completing ongoing training in early childhood development, and maintaining strict child-to-provider ratios (e.g., 1:4 for children under 2). Providers are also required to have a food handler's permit if meals are served. You can request to see a provider's current license and inspection reports. In remote areas, inspections may be less frequent, so parents are encouraged to ask detailed questions about safety protocols, emergency plans for severe weather or medical situations, and transportation policies.
Given the remote location of Hays, what should I look for in a childcare provider regarding flexibility, communication, and backup plans?
In a remote community like Hays, these factors are critical. Look for a provider who clearly communicates their hours, holiday closures, and policies for sick days (theirs and your child's). Given long travel distances for work or medical appointments, ask about early drop-off or late pick-up flexibility and any associated fees. Crucially, inquire about their backup plan if they become ill or have an emergency—reliable backup is scarce. A good provider will have a clear communication plan, whether through daily logs, text messages, or apps. Also, assess their plan for engaging children in a home-based setting with limited access to formal preschool programs, libraries, or playgroups. A provider who incorporates local culture, outdoor play, and creative activities is a valuable asset in this environment.