The Best Daycare Centers in Savage, MT
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Savage. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Savage
Little Lambs Learning Center
Independent
Little Lambs Learning Center provides comprehensive early childhood education with a play-based curriculum that emphasizes social-emotional development and school readiness. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, with all staff holding early childhood education credentials and being CPR/First Aid certified. Their secure facility includes monitored entry systems, age-appropriate learning environments, and structured outdoor play areas. The program focuses on developmental milestones through hands-on activities and serves as a trusted childcare provider for Savage families seeking quality care in Eastern Montana.
Daycare Services:
Dawson Community College Child Development Center
Dawson Community College
Operated by Dawson Community College, this center combines early childhood education with teacher training programs, offering a research-based curriculum that includes Creative Curriculum and Montana Early Learning Standards. The facility features college-educated teachers, observation rooms for parent viewing, and a nutrition program meeting USDA guidelines. Safety protocols include keycard access and comprehensive background checks. The center serves as a model program for rural childcare and welcomes families from Savage and throughout Dawson County.
Daycare Services:
Glendive Early Learning Center
Independent
Glendive Early Learning Center offers a structured educational environment with a focus on kindergarten readiness through a balanced curriculum of academic and social development. The center features certified early childhood educators, small class sizes, and modern security systems including camera monitoring. Their program includes daily progress reports, parent communication apps, and enrichment activities in music and movement. The facility maintains excellent safety records and serves many families from Savage who commute for work and education in Glendive.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Savage, MT
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Savage, Montana, and how can I verify a provider's status?
In Savage, Montana, all childcare facilities caring for four or more children must be licensed by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), Early Childhood Services Bureau. This includes family daycare homes and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and training. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the "Child Care Search" tool on the Montana DPHHS website or contact the Eastern Service Region office directly. Given Savage's small, rural nature, many providers may be licensed family homes. Always ask to see their current license certificate during your visit.
How available is infant childcare in Savage, and are there typically long waitlists?
Infant childcare (for children under 2 years old) is often the most challenging to find in Savage due to stricter staff-to-child ratios and limited capacity. In a small community like Savage, there may only be a handful of licensed providers who accept infants. It is very common for these spots to have waitlists, sometimes several months long. Parents are strongly advised to begin their search during pregnancy. Connecting with local networks, such as the Savage Community Facebook page or asking at the Richland County Health Department, can help identify potential openings and get on lists early.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare in Savage, Montana, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Savage and surrounding Richland County, full-time daycare costs are generally lower than Montana's urban averages but vary by provider type. For a licensed family daycare home, you might expect to pay between $120-$180 per week per child. A center-based program, if available nearby in Sidney, may range from $150-$220 per week. Financial assistance is primarily available through the state's Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship Program, which is income-based. Eligibility and application are managed through the DPHHS. Additionally, some local employers or community organizations may offer limited support, so it's worth inquiring directly.
What are my options for before-and-after-school care for school-age children in the Savage area?
For school-age children attending Savage School (K-12), structured before-and-after-school programs within the town itself are extremely limited due to the community's size. Primary options include licensed family daycare homes that offer transportation to and from school, or in-home care provided by a neighbor or nanny. Many families in rural areas like Savage rely on flexible work schedules, family members, or carefully arranged childcare co-ops with other parents. Contacting the Savage School administration can sometimes provide leads on approved providers who offer school transportation services.
How do seasonal factors, like agriculture, impact childcare availability and schedules in Savage?
Savage's economy is closely tied to agriculture and energy sectors, which significantly impacts childcare. During peak seasons like planting and harvest (spring and fall), demand for childcare can increase as more parents work long hours. Conversely, some in-home providers may have their own seasonal family obligations. It's crucial to discuss potential schedule changes, holiday closures, and summer availability upfront with any provider. Some providers may offer more flexible or extended hours during these busy periods, possibly for an adjusted rate. Planning for backup care during these times is a wise strategy for local families.