The Best Daycare Centers in Reno, NV
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Reno. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Reno
The Goddard School of Reno
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Reno 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 curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social-emotional development with highly qualified teachers holding degrees in early childhood education. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and provide daily communication to parents through their proprietary app. The school is known for its comprehensive safety protocols and nurturing environment that encourages curiosity and independence.
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Primrose School of Reno at Damonte Ranch
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Reno at Damonte Ranch follows the Balanced Learning® approach, combining purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. Their research-based curriculum includes character development, literacy, mathematics, and science in a safe, engaging environment. The school features secure facilities with coded entry, dedicated age-specific playgrounds, and bright, well-equipped classrooms. Teachers receive ongoing professional development and maintain CPR/first aid certification. The school emphasizes partnership with families through regular communication and parent resources. Their nutrition program provides healthy meals and snacks, supporting overall child development and wellness.
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The Children's Cabinet Child Care Center
The Children's Cabinet
The Children's Cabinet Child Care Center provides high-quality early childhood education with a focus on school readiness and family support services. Their comprehensive curriculum incorporates literacy, math, science, and social skills development through play-based learning. The center features secure facilities with monitored access, developmentally appropriate learning materials, and outdoor play spaces. Staff includes credentialed early childhood educators with specialized training in trauma-informed care and inclusive practices. As a nonprofit organization, they offer sliding scale fees and comprehensive family support services including parenting classes and resources. The center is recognized for its inclusive environment and strong community partnerships.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Reno, NV
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Reno, NV, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Reno, the average cost for full-time infant care ranges from approximately $1,100 to $1,500 per month, while toddler care typically costs between $950 and $1,300 per month. These rates can vary based on the type of facility (center-based vs. home-based), its location, and the programs offered. For financial assistance, Nevada operates the Child Care and Development Program (CCDP), which provides subsidies to eligible families based on income, family size, and need (like employment or school attendance). You can apply through the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships, so it's always worth asking directly.
How do I verify that a daycare or childcare provider in Reno is properly licensed and what specific state regulations should I be aware of?
All childcare providers in Nevada caring for more than one unrelated child must be licensed by the Division of Public and Behavioral Health (DPBH), Child Care Licensing. You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any compliance issues through the official Nevada Child Care Finder website or by contacting the Northern Nevada Child Care Licensing office directly. Key Nevada regulations include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:6 for toddlers), required background checks for all employees, and annual health and safety training. Reno providers must also meet state standards for safe sleep practices, nutrition, and facility safety.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Reno, and what strategies can I use to secure a spot for my child?
Yes, waitlists are very common for reputable daycare centers in Reno, especially for infant rooms, and can range from a few months to over a year. To improve your chances, start your search early—ideally during pregnancy or 6-12 months before you need care. Contact multiple centers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $25-$100). Follow up with centers every 2-3 months to confirm your spot remains active. Consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in your neighborhood, as they may have more immediate availability and shorter waitlists.
What are the options for part-time or flexible childcare in Reno, such as for parents with irregular work schedules or students?
Reno offers several flexible childcare options. Many licensed family childcare homes offer part-time, drop-in, or hourly care, which can be ideal for irregular schedules. Some larger daycare centers may offer part-time slots (e.g., 2-3 days a week), though these are less common and often in high demand. For occasional or emergency care, services like UrbanSitter or Care.com can connect you with local vetted babysitters. Additionally, the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) often has student-run parent co-ops or lists of education majors seeking childcare work. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Truckee Meadows also provide affordable after-school programs with flexible enrollment.
How does the climate and geography of Reno, NV, affect daycare programs and what should I look for regarding outdoor play and safety?
Reno's high-desert climate features hot, dry summers and cold, sometimes snowy winters, which significantly impact daycare programs. A quality daycare should have clear policies for outdoor play in extreme temperatures, including shaded areas, sun protection (sunscreen application), and hydration in summer, and appropriate winter gear for cold weather. Look for centers with secure, fenced outdoor play areas that have safe, resilient surfaces. Given the area's high altitude and sun exposure, inquire about their sun safety protocol. Also, due to occasional poor air quality from wildfires, ask about their policy for indoor activities during smoke advisories. A good program will balance ample outdoor time with sensible weather adaptations to keep children safe year-round.