The Best Daycare Centers in Regina, NM
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Regina. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Regina
Socorro Early Childhood Center
Socorro Consolidated Schools
Socorro Early Childhood Center is a highly-regarded facility operated by Socorro Consolidated Schools, offering a comprehensive early education program rooted in play-based and developmental approaches. The center emphasizes literacy, math readiness, and social-emotional learning through a structured curriculum aligned with New Mexico Early Learning Guidelines. Staff includes certified teachers with backgrounds in early childhood education, maintaining low teacher-to-child ratios for personalized attention. Safety is prioritized with secure entry systems, regular drills, and a clean, nurturing environment. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play areas, and nutritious meal programs. Parent involvement is encouraged through regular updates and events, contributing to its strong community reputation for fostering child development in a supportive setting.
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Children's Learning Center of Socorro
Independent
Children's Learning Center of Socorro is a trusted independent childcare provider known for its holistic educational approach, blending Montessori-inspired activities with hands-on learning. The curriculum focuses on cognitive, physical, and emotional development through themed units, arts, and sensory play. Qualified staff hold degrees in early childhood education and participate in ongoing training, ensuring high-quality care and adherence to state standards. The center boasts a safe, inclusive environment with modern safety protocols, including video monitoring and allergy-aware practices. Facilities include spacious indoor learning zones and fenced outdoor playgrounds. Parents praise the center for its communicative staff, flexible scheduling, and emphasis on individual milestones, making it a popular choice for families in the Regina area.
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T or C Kids Club
Independent
T or C Kids Club is a well-established childcare center in Truth or Consequences, serving the broader region including Regina with a focus on creative and academic enrichment. The program integrates STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) activities into daily routines, promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Staff are experienced and CPR-certified, with low child-to-teacher ratios to ensure attentive care. Safety measures include secured premises, background-checked employees, and hygienic facilities. The center offers a vibrant learning environment with dedicated art areas, reading nooks, and outdoor play spaces. Highly rated for its engaging curriculum and family-friendly atmosphere, it supports developmental tracking and regular parent-teacher conferences to foster child growth and satisfaction.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Regina, NM
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Regina, New Mexico, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In New Mexico, all childcare facilities, including those in Regina, must be licensed by the state's Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD). Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and staff background checks. For Regina specifically, you can verify a facility's license status and view any inspection reports by using the "Look Up a Licensed Provider" tool on the CYFD website. It's also recommended to contact the local CYFD licensing office for the region, as they may have specific insights into providers in the Lincoln County area. Always ask the daycare for their license number and current status during your visit.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Regina, NM?
Childcare costs in smaller New Mexico communities like Regina are generally lower than in major cities like Albuquerque or Santa Fe. For Regina and the surrounding Lincoln County area, you can expect to pay an average of $450 to $650 per month for full-time care for an infant or toddler. However, costs can vary based on the type of care (in-home family daycare vs. a center-based program), the provider's specific services, and the age of your child. It's important to get detailed quotes, as some providers may include meals and supplies in their weekly rate, while others charge extra.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with childcare costs for families in Regina?
Yes, the primary program is the New Mexico Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), administered by CYFD. This state-funded subsidy helps eligible low- and moderate-income families pay for childcare. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and reason for care (e.g., employment, education). Families in Regina apply through the CYFD office that serves Lincoln County. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships, so it's worth inquiring directly. Given Regina's rural nature, exploring these options is crucial as local choices may be limited.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers or popular in-home providers in Regina, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the limited number of licensed providers in a small, rural community like Regina, waitlists can be significant, often ranging from 3 to 9 months, especially for infant care. Popular providers may have closed waitlists. To secure a spot, start your search early—ideally during pregnancy. Contact all licensed providers in Regina and neighboring towns like Capitan or Corona. Get on multiple waitlists, even if you have a preference. Follow up politely every few months to express continued interest. Being flexible with your start date can also improve your chances.
What are the main types of childcare options available specifically in Regina, NM?
In a rural town like Regina, your primary options are licensed Family Child Care Homes (FCCH) and possibly small, home-based preschool programs. There are unlikely to be large, corporate daycare centers. FCCHs are run out of a provider's residence and typically care for a smaller, mixed-age group of children, which can offer a family-like setting. Some providers may also offer "relative care" that can become licensed. For older preschoolers, you might find a part-day program. For more variety or specialized care, many Regina families consider providers in the slightly larger nearby town of Capitan, about a 15-minute drive away. Always ensure any option you consider is CYFD-licensed.