El Prado, NM

The Children's Garden of Taos is a highly-regarded Montessori-inspired childcare center serving the El Prado and greater Taos area. With a strong focus on child-led learning and natural development, the center offers comprehensive programs from infancy through preschool. Their educational approach emphasizes hands-on learning, outdoor exploration, and individualized attention. The facility features spacious classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and a nature-based curriculum that incorporates local cultural elements. Staff members are Montessori-trained with extensive early childhood education credentials, maintaining excellent teacher-to-child ratios. The center is known for its nurturing environment, strong parent communication, and commitment to creating a foundation for lifelong learning through play-based and structured educational activities.

Operated by the respected Taos Community Foundation, this early childhood center provides high-quality care and education for children from 6 weeks to 5 years old. The center follows a research-based curriculum that combines play-based learning with structured educational activities, focusing on social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM foundations. The facility features modern security systems, age-appropriate learning environments, and dedicated outdoor play spaces. What sets this center apart is its comprehensive approach including on-site early intervention services, family support programs, and strong community partnerships. Teachers hold bachelor's degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the center maintains New Mexico's highest quality rating through the FOCUS program. Nutritional meals and snacks are provided through their USDA-approved food program.

Kinderschool II has established itself as a trusted childcare provider in the Taos area, serving families from El Prado and surrounding communities. The center offers a balanced educational approach that combines academic preparation with creative expression and physical development. Their curriculum includes daily literacy activities, math concepts, science exploration, art, music, and Spanish language exposure. The facility features secure, bright classrooms with dedicated learning centers, a large outdoor playground with age-appropriate equipment, and a structured environment that promotes independence and social skills. The teaching staff includes experienced early childhood educators with an average of 8+ years of experience. The center is particularly noted for its smooth transition programs between age groups and its comprehensive kindergarten readiness curriculum that ensures children are well-prepared for elementary school.