The Best Daycare Centers in Farmington, NM
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Farmington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Farmington
The Learning Tree Preschool & Childcare
Independent
The Learning Tree offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation. Their curriculum focuses on social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM activities. Features small class sizes with low teacher-to-child ratios, certified early childhood educators, and secure facilities with monitored access. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, experienced staff, and strong communication. The center includes both indoor learning centers and outdoor play areas with age-appropriate equipment.
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Kiddie Academy of Farmington
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Farmington provides a nationally-recognized Life Essentials curriculum that balances academic learning with character development. The program emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies through hands-on activities. Features include secure entry systems, daily health screenings, and USDA-approved meal programs. Staff members hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The facility includes modern classrooms, age-appropriate learning materials, and safe outdoor playgrounds. Parents appreciate the structured learning environment and regular progress updates.
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Little Peoples Child Care & Learning Center
Independent
Little Peoples Child Care has served the Farmington community for nearly two decades with a focus on developmental appropriateness and individualized attention. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum elements with emphasis on language development, cognitive skills, and physical coordination. The center maintains excellent staff retention with many teachers having 5+ years of experience. Safety features include secured premises, comprehensive background checks, and emergency preparedness protocols. The facility offers separate age-specific playgrounds and well-equipped classrooms. Families value the consistent care and strong community reputation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Farmington, NM
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Farmington, NM, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Farmington, all childcare centers and family home providers caring for more than one unrelated family must be licensed by the New Mexico Children, Youth & Families Department (CYFD). Licensing ensures facilities meet state standards for safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, health and sanitation, and developmentally appropriate programming. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the "Look Up a Licensed Child Care Provider" tool on the CYFD website or contact the CYFD Licensing Office directly for the Northwest Region, which serves Farmington. It's crucial to check for any recent violations or conditional licenses before enrolling your child.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Farmington, and are there financial assistance programs available locally?
In Farmington, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from $600 to $900 per month, while toddler care often ranges from $550 to $800 per month. Prices vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum, and age of the child. For financial assistance, New Mexico offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which is administered locally. Eligibility is based on family income, work, school, or training requirements. You can apply through the New Mexico Human Services Department office in Farmington. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for quality daycare centers in Farmington, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists for highly-regarded daycare centers and preschools in Farmington can vary from a few months to over a year, especially for infant classrooms which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. To improve your chances, start your search early—ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. Contact multiple centers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee. Follow up politely every few months to express continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in your neighborhood, as they may have more immediate openings and offer a smaller setting.
Are there childcare options in Farmington that cater to parents working non-traditional hours in the energy or healthcare sectors?
Yes, given Farmington's significant energy (oil and gas) and healthcare employment sectors, some childcare providers offer extended or non-traditional hours. While not all centers offer this, several licensed family childcare homes and a few larger centers may provide early morning (starting at 5:30 or 6:00 AM), evening, or occasional weekend care. It's essential to inquire directly and be specific about your schedule needs. The "4C Council" (Child Care Resource and Referral) for San Juan County can be a helpful resource in identifying providers with flexible hours. Planning ahead is critical, as these spots are often limited.
What resources are available in Farmington to help me evaluate and choose a quality childcare program?
Parents in Farmington have several local resources. First, use the CYFD online lookup tool to review licensing reports and any compliance history. Second, contact the **San Juan County 4C Council**, a Child Care Resource and Referral agency, for free personalized referrals, quality information, and guidance on what to look for during a visit. They can be reached at (505) 326-1009. Third, schedule in-person tours and ask providers about their curriculum, staff qualifications and turnover, safety protocols, and parent communication. Finally, talk to other local parents in community groups or online forums for personal recommendations and experiences.