The Best Daycare Centers in Navajo, NM
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Navajo. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Navajo
Bloomfield Early Learning Center
Bloomfield School District
Bloomfield Early Learning Center is a highly-regarded facility serving the wider San Juan County region, including Navajo. As part of the Bloomfield School District, they offer a comprehensive early childhood education program with certified teachers and developmentally appropriate curriculum. The center features structured learning environments with emphasis on literacy, math readiness, and social-emotional development. They maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios and employ state-certified early childhood educators. The facility includes secure indoor classrooms and age-appropriate outdoor play areas. Their program includes nutritional meal services and regular developmental assessments.
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The Learning Tree Preschool & Childcare
Independent
The Learning Tree in Farmington serves families throughout San Juan County, including Navajo residents. This established center offers a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation. Their curriculum focuses on hands-on learning experiences, creative arts, and STEM activities. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, comprehensive safety protocols, and well-maintained indoor/outdoor environments. Staff includes experienced early childhood educators with ongoing professional development. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, individualized attention, and nurturing atmosphere that promotes both academic and social growth.
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Kiddie Academy of Farmington
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Farmington is part of a respected national network serving the broader Navajo area with their proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum. The program emphasizes character development, literacy, and school readiness through structured learning centers and hands-on activities. The facility features modern security systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and dedicated outdoor play spaces. Their staff includes qualified early childhood professionals with background checks and continuous training. The academy offers flexible scheduling and comprehensive programs from infants through school-age children, with emphasis on creating a nurturing environment that supports each child's individual development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Navajo, NM
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Navajo, NM, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In New Mexico, all childcare facilities, including those in Navajo, must be licensed by the New Mexico Children, Youth & Families Department (CYFD). Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and staff background checks. For Navajo specifically, which is a smaller community, you may find a mix of licensed family home providers and potentially licensed centers. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the CYFD Child Care Search tool online or contact the CYFD Licensing Bureau directly. It's crucial to check this, as unlicensed care is not regulated for safety. You can also ask the provider for their license number and certificate.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers or popular in-home providers in the Navajo, NM area, and when should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of childcare options in smaller communities like Navajo, waitlists can be significant, often ranging from 3 to 9 months, especially for infant care. Popular providers or the few licensed centers in the broader San Juan County area may have the longest lists. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists as soon as you know you will need care, ideally during pregnancy. Don't hesitate to get on multiple lists. Be proactive and check in every few months to keep your spot active and inquire about your position on the list.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with childcare costs for families in Navajo, NM?
Yes, the primary program is the New Mexico Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), administered by CYFD. It provides financial assistance to eligible low- and moderate-income families living in New Mexico, including those in Navajo. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (work, school, etc.). You apply through the CYFD Income Support Division. Additionally, some local non-profits or tribal organizations serving the Navajo Nation may offer supplemental support or resources. It's best to contact the CYFD office in Farmington (the nearest major service center) for the most current application information and eligibility thresholds.
What are the average costs for full-time childcare in Navajo, NM, and how do they compare to nearby cities like Farmington?
In Navajo and similar rural areas of San Juan County, full-time childcare costs can vary widely. For a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $120-$180 per week. A spot in a licensed center, if available locally, could be $150-$220 per week. These rates are generally slightly lower than in Farmington, where center care can average $180-$250+ per week due to higher operating costs and more demand. However, the trade-off in Navajo is often fewer available slots. Always ask what is included in the weekly rate (meals, snacks, curriculum).
What unique cultural or community-based childcare options might be available for families in Navajo, NM?
Given the location within the Navajo Nation, families may have access to culturally specific programs. Look into programs offered through the Navajo Nation Division of Social Services or local Chapter Houses, which may support early childhood development. Head Start programs, which are federally funded and often have a strong presence in tribal communities, are a key option. These programs not only provide education and care but often incorporate Navajo language and cultural teachings. It's worth inquiring with the local school district or community center about any tribally licensed providers or family members who provide care within cultural kinship traditions, though ensure any formal arrangement still meets state licensing requirements for your protection.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Navajo: