The Best Daycare Centers in Lakewood, NM
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lakewood. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lakewood
The Learning Tree Daycare & Preschool
The Learning Tree Early Childhood Centers
The Learning Tree provides comprehensive early childhood education with a play-based curriculum that emphasizes social-emotional development and school readiness. Their certified teachers implement Creative Curriculum with structured learning centers, and the facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and nutritious meal programs. They maintain low teacher-to-child ratios and offer extended hours to accommodate working families in the Four Corners region.
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Kiddie Academy of Farmington
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy offers the nationally recognized Life Essentials® curriculum focused on character development, literacy, and STEM education. The center features secure keypad entry, live streaming for parents, and USDA-approved meal programs. Their degreed teachers provide individualized learning plans and maintain comprehensive communication with parents through daily reports and regular assessments. The facility serves as a premier educational childcare option for the Lakewood/Farmington area.
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Little Sunbeams Learning Center
Independent
Little Sunbeams provides a nurturing environment with a balanced approach to early childhood education, combining structured academic preparation with creative play. The center features modern security systems, outdoor learning environments, and developmentally appropriate classrooms. Their qualified staff focuses on building foundational skills through hands-on activities and maintains strong parent partnerships through regular communication and family events. The center serves families throughout San Juan County including Lakewood residents.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lakewood, NM
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Lakewood, New Mexico, and how can I verify a facility is in good standing?
In Lakewood, New Mexico, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the New Mexico Children, Youth & Families Department (CYFD). This includes family home providers, group homes, and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications, and program activities. To verify a facility's license and compliance history, you can use the "Look Up a Licensed Child Care Provider" tool on the CYFD website. It's highly recommended to check this resource, as it will show the license status, any recent inspections, and if any corrective actions or complaints have been filed. You can also contact the CYFD Early Childhood Services office directly for the region.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Lakewood, NM, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In Lakewood and the surrounding area, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from $600 to $900 per month, while toddler care may range from $550 to $800 per month. Costs can vary based on the type of facility (center vs. home-based), the age of the child, and the specific programs offered. For families needing financial support, New Mexico offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), administered by CYFD. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or attending school). Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's best to apply for CCAP through the New Mexico Human Services Department and inquire directly with daycare centers about their specific payment policies.
How long are typical waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Lakewood, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants and toddlers, waitlists at well-regarded daycare centers in Lakewood can often be 3 to 9 months long. Some centers may have even longer waits. To improve your chances of securing a spot, start your search and get on lists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. Be proactive: contact multiple centers, complete their waitlist applications thoroughly, and follow up periodically (every 2-3 months) to express continued interest. Consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in residential areas of Lakewood, as they may have shorter wait times and offer a more home-like setting.
Are there any unique outdoor or educational programs offered by daycares in Lakewood that take advantage of the local New Mexico environment?
Yes, several childcare providers in the Lakewood area incorporate the unique high-desert environment and cultural heritage of New Mexico into their programs. You may find centers that include age-appropriate gardening (using drought-resistant plants), nature exploration focusing on local flora and fauna, and activities that introduce elements of Native American and Hispanic cultures through art, music, and stories. Some programs might organize safe, supervised outdoor play that emphasizes the wide-open spaces characteristic of the region. When touring facilities, ask specifically about their curriculum's connection to local culture and environment, and if they have secure outdoor play areas designed for the local climate.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare facility in Lakewood, and are there any local red flags specific to this area?
During a tour, observe cleanliness, child engagement, staff interactions, and safety features like secured entrances and fenced playgrounds. In Lakewood specifically, also ask about their policies for extreme weather, such as high winds or dust storms, and how they ensure safe outdoor play in the intense sun (e.g., shaded areas, sunscreen application). A local red flag would be a provider who is not familiar with or does not follow New Mexico's specific licensing regulations, such as staff-to-child ratios or safe sleep practices for infants. Be wary of any facility that cannot provide you with their CYFD license number or seems hesitant to show you all areas of operation. It's also wise to ask for references from other local parents.