The Best Daycare Centers in Rollins, MT
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Rollins. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Rollins
The Goddard School of Kalispell
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Kalispell offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their state-licensed teachers implement developmentally appropriate curriculum focusing on literacy, STEM, social-emotional development, and creative arts. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, modern classrooms. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and employ degreed early childhood educators. The school emphasizes safety with comprehensive background checks, regular safety drills, and health protocols. Parents appreciate the strong communication through daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences.
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Montessori Children's House
Independent Montessori School
Montessori Children's House provides authentic Montessori education with AMI-certified teachers and carefully prepared environments. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, independence, and respect for each child's individual development pace. Their curriculum covers practical life skills, sensorial development, language, mathematics, and cultural studies. The facility includes beautiful outdoor learning spaces, gardens, and natural play areas. All lead teachers hold Montessori credentials and bachelor's degrees, with ongoing professional development. The center maintains excellent safety records with secure facilities and comprehensive emergency protocols. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment and the strong academic foundation children receive.
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Little Acorns Learning Center
Independent Childcare Center
Little Acorns Learning Center offers a comprehensive early childhood program with a play-based, nature-inspired curriculum that incorporates Reggio Emilia principles. Their approach emphasizes outdoor learning, creative expression, and social development. The center features large, well-equipped classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas. All staff are CPR and First Aid certified, with many holding early childhood degrees. The center maintains strict health and safety protocols including secure entry systems, regular sanitation, and nutritious meal programs. Parents particularly value the center's strong community feel, experienced staff retention, and the emphasis on outdoor exploration and nature-based learning.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Rollins, MT
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Rollins, Montana, 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 state's Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), Early Childhood Services Bureau. This includes family daycare homes and childcare centers. Licensed providers in Rollins must meet specific standards for staff-to-child ratios, safety inspections, background checks, health and sanitation, and staff training in areas like CPR and First Aid. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the Montana Child Care Search online tool or contact the DPHHS directly. Given Rollins's small, rural community, many providers may be licensed family homes, which are a common and regulated option in the area.
How far in advance should I start looking for and applying to daycare in Rollins, and are waitlists common?
Due to the limited number of childcare options in a small town like Rollins, it is highly recommended to start your search as early as possible—ideally 6 to 12 months before you need care, especially if you are seeking an infant spot. Waitlists are very common and can be lengthy, as licensed slots are scarce. Many families in Lake County (where Rollins is located) rely on a handful of providers, so contacting them during pregnancy or immediately upon a job transfer to the area is prudent. Be prepared to get on multiple waitlists and check in periodically for updates.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for a toddler in Rollins, MT, and are there any local or state assistance programs?
While specific costs can vary, full-time daycare for a toddler in Rollins and the surrounding Lake County area typically ranges from approximately $600 to $900 per month for a licensed family home. Center-based care is less common locally, and if found, may be at a similar or slightly higher price point. For financial assistance, Montana offers the Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship (BBCS) program, which is income-based and can significantly reduce costs for eligible families. You apply through the DPHHS. Additionally, some local employers or community organizations may have information on sliding-scale options, though resources are more limited than in urban areas.
Are there any unique childcare options in Rollins that cater to families with non-traditional or agricultural work schedules?
Yes, given Rollins's rural setting near Flathead Lake, many families are involved in agriculture, tourism, or shift work. Some licensed family childcare homes may offer more flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, or occasional weekend care, to accommodate these schedules. It's important to discuss your specific needs directly with providers. Another option to explore is "in-home" or "nanny-share" arrangements with other local families, which can provide customized scheduling. Networking through local community boards, churches, or the Rollins/Lakeside community Facebook groups can help you find providers who understand the demands of the local economy.
What should I look for during a daycare tour in a small community like Rollins, and what local-specific questions should I ask?
During a tour, observe the cleanliness, safety (outdoor play areas, fencing), and how caregivers interact with children. In Rollins, ask specific local questions such as: "What is your plan for wildfire smoke days or severe winter weather, given our rural location?" "How do you handle closures if you, as the sole provider, are sick?" "Are children taken on local outings (e.g., to the lakefront, library in nearby towns) and what are the safety protocols?" Also, inquire about their connection to the community, their policy on accepting children from neighboring towns like Lakeside, and whether they incorporate any local, nature-based learning into their daily routine, which is common in Montana's early childhood programs.
Childcare Insights for Rollins
Finding reliable summer daycare in a small, close-knit community like Rollins, Montana, requires a slightly different approach than in larger towns. The search for "summer daycare near me" here is often less about scrolling through endless online listings and more about tapping into the local network and understanding the unique rhythms of our area. Summer in the Flathead Valley is a beautiful, busy season, and securing a safe, engaging spot for your children is a top priority for working parents.
First, it’s important to start your search early. Quality summer programs in and around Rollins can fill up quickly, sometimes by early spring. Given our smaller population, options may include dedicated in-home providers, faith-based programs, or day camps that operate in nearby communities like Lakeside or Kalispell. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations at the Rollins Post Office, the Rollins Fire Department, or at local gatherings. Personal referrals are often the most trusted resource here.
When considering a provider, think about the Montana summer experience you want for your child. The best programs in our area will likely incorporate the incredible natural playground that surrounds us. Look for caregivers who emphasize outdoor time—whether it’s supervised play in a large yard, nature walks, or simple activities like gardening. Given our proximity to Flathead Lake, inquire about water safety policies and if any activities might involve trips to the shore. A great summer daycare in Rollins will help kids burn off energy with plenty of fresh air and maybe even teach them a little about the local environment.
Logistics are key in a rural setting. Be clear about transportation needs and pickup/drop-off times, especially if the provider is not directly in Rollins. Some families in the area form carpools to share the driving burden to programs in neighboring towns. Also, discuss flexibility. Summer in Montana can mean unexpected plans—a day on the lake or helping with family—so understanding a provider’s policy on scheduled days off is helpful.
Finally, trust your instincts during a visit. Observe how the children interact with the caregiver and with each other. A good fit will feel welcoming and secure. Ask about daily routines, how they handle the summer heat, and what a typical day looks like. In a community like ours, you’re not just choosing a service; you’re choosing a summer partner for your family. The right summer daycare will provide not just supervision, but a season of fun, friendship, and local adventure for your child, giving you peace of mind as you work or manage the busy summer months right here in Rollins.