The Best Daycare Centers in Hagerman, NM
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Hagerman. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Hagerman
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center is a highly-regarded local childcare facility serving Hagerman and surrounding communities. They offer a comprehensive early childhood education program with age-appropriate curriculum including Creative Curriculum for infants and toddlers and HighScope for preschool ages. The center features certified early childhood educators with low teacher-to-child ratios, secure facility access with surveillance systems, and nutritious meal programs. Their outdoor play area includes age-appropriate equipment and garden spaces for hands-on learning. The center emphasizes developmental milestones tracking and maintains strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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Roswell Children's Corner
Independent
Located approximately 25 miles from Hagerman, Roswell Children's Corner serves families throughout Chaves County with a research-based educational approach. The center employs degreed early childhood professionals and maintains state-exceeding staff-to-child ratios. Their curriculum incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. The facility features secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and regular safety drills. They offer enrichment programs including music, movement, and Spanish language exposure. Parent satisfaction is high due to their transparent communication and individualized attention to each child's development.
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Kids Kingdom Learning Center
Independent
Kids Kingdom Learning Center has served southeastern New Mexico families for nearly two decades, including many from Hagerman. Their educational philosophy combines play-based learning with structured academic preparation, using the Frog Street curriculum for literacy and math foundations. The center features certified teachers with ongoing professional development, secure facility with keypad entry, and USDA-approved nutrition program. Their spacious indoor and outdoor environments include dedicated learning centers, age-appropriate playgrounds, and climate-controlled facilities. The center is known for its inclusive environment and strong community partnerships, providing reliable transportation options for school-age children.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Hagerman, NM
What types of licensed childcare options are available in Hagerman, NM, and how do I verify a provider's license?
In Hagerman, NM, licensed childcare options primarily include Family Child Care Homes (FCCH), which are smaller, home-based settings, and potentially Child Care Centers, though these are less common in smaller communities. The state of New Mexico licenses all childcare providers through the Early Childhood Education and Care Department (ECECD). To verify a provider's license, you can use the "Look Up a Licensed Provider" tool on the ECECD website or contact the department directly. It's crucial to check for a current license, as this ensures the provider meets state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and background checks. Given Hagerman's size, most options will be FCCHs, which can offer a more intimate, family-like environment.
What is the typical cost for full-time daycare in Hagerman, and are there any financial assistance programs for local families?
In Hagerman and the surrounding Chaves County area, full-time daycare costs can vary. For a Family Child Care Home, you might expect to pay between $120 to $180 per week for an infant or toddler, and slightly less for preschool-aged children. Costs are generally lower than in larger New Mexico cities like Albuquerque. Financial assistance is available through the New Mexico Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), administered by the ECECD. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or education). You can apply through the YesNM portal or your local Income Support Division office. Some local providers may also offer sliding scale fees.
Are there long waitlists for daycare in Hagerman, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to Hagerman's smaller population and limited number of providers, quality licensed daycare spots can fill quickly and may have waitlists, especially for infants and toddlers. It is highly recommended to start your search at least 3-6 months before you need care, and if you are expecting a child, to get on lists during your second trimester. Be proactive by contacting all licensed providers in Hagerman and asking about their current enrollment and waitlist policies. Don't hesitate to also inquire in nearby towns like Roswell (about 30 minutes away) if you are willing to commute, as this can expand your options.
What are the key questions I should ask when touring a daycare home in Hagerman?
When touring a Family Child Care Home in Hagerman, beyond verifying their ECECD license, ask specific questions tailored to a home setting. Key questions include: What is your daily schedule and philosophy? What are your safety protocols, especially for outdoor play? How do you handle meals and naps? What is your sick policy and plan for when you, as the primary caregiver, are ill? Can you provide references from current or past families? How do you communicate with parents about my child's day? Also, inquire about their experience with the specific age group of your child and how they incorporate learning activities suitable for a mixed-age home environment.
How does New Mexico's "FOCUS" quality rating system apply to daycare providers in Hagerman, and should I prioritize a highly-rated program?
New Mexico's FOCUS (Facilities Offering Care with Upgraded Standards) is a voluntary quality rating and improvement system for licensed childcare programs. It rates providers from Level 1 (meeting licensing standards) to Level 5 (excellence). In a smaller community like Hagerman, not all providers may participate, but it's a valuable tool. A higher FOCUS rating indicates a program that exceeds basic requirements in areas like curriculum, staff qualifications, and family engagement. While you should not discount a Level 1 provider that otherwise feels like a great fit, a FOCUS-rated program offers an extra layer of quality assurance. You can search for FOCUS-rated providers on the ECECD website to see if any are available in or near Hagerman.