The Best Daycare Centers in Texico, NM
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Texico. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Texico
Little Learners Academy
Independent
Little Learners Academy 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. The center features certified early childhood educators with low student-teacher ratios, secure entry systems, and modern learning environments with both indoor and outdoor play areas. They provide nutritious meals and snacks and maintain strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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ABC Early Learning Center
Independent
ABC Early Learning Center provides a nurturing environment with a research-based curriculum that emphasizes whole-child development. Their program includes language development, mathematics, science exploration, and creative arts. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor playgrounds, and comprehensive safety protocols including background-checked staff and emergency preparedness training. Teachers hold early childhood certifications and receive ongoing professional development. The center is known for its inclusive environment and strong community connections.
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Bright Horizons Child Development Center
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons offers a nationally-recognized curriculum called The World at Their Fingertips, which integrates literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies through hands-on learning experiences. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, dedicated age-specific learning environments, and highly qualified teachers with bachelor's degrees in early childhood education. Their program emphasizes character development, problem-solving skills, and school readiness. The facility includes multiple outdoor learning spaces and maintains excellent health and safety standards with regular inspections and comprehensive staff training.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Texico, NM
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Texico, New Mexico, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Texico, all childcare facilities 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 family home providers caring for up to 6 children, a "Small Family Child Care Home" license is required. Larger centers require a "Child Care Center" license. You can verify a provider's license status and view any compliance history by using the "Look Up a Licensed Provider" tool on the CYFD website or by contacting the CYFD Licensing Bureau directly. It's a critical first step for any parent in the Texico area.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Texico, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Texico, waitlists for reputable daycare centers and licensed home providers can be significant. It is not uncommon for waitlists to be 6 to 12 months long, especially for infant care, which has the strictest staff-to-child ratios. Parents are strongly advised to begin their search and get on waitlists as soon as they know they will need care, ideally during pregnancy. Contacting multiple providers in Texico and nearby communities like Clovis is recommended to increase your chances of securing a spot.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Texico, NM?
In Texico and the surrounding Curry County area, daycare costs are generally lower than in major New Mexico cities but can vary based on the type of care. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay an average of $500 to $700 per month for full-time care. Licensed family home daycare may range from $400 to $600 monthly. Infant care is typically at the higher end of this scale. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate (e.g., meals, snacks, curriculum). New Mexico offers financial assistance programs like the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families to help offset these costs.
Are there any unique local resources or programs in Texico to help parents find and evaluate childcare options?
Yes, a key local resource is the **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for Eastern New Mexico**, which serves Curry County including Texico. They maintain a database of licensed providers, offer referrals based on your specific needs, and can provide guidance on quality indicators and financial assistance. You can contact them by phone or online. Additionally, connecting with local parent groups on social media or through community centers can provide invaluable word-of-mouth recommendations and insights into provider reputations in the Texico area.
What should I look for during a daycare tour specific to facilities in our agricultural community?
When touring a daycare in Texico, consider factors unique to our rural setting. First, inquire about their emergency preparedness plan for severe weather common to the Eastern Plains. Ask about outdoor play areas: are they securely fenced and free from agricultural hazards like irrigation ditches or equipment? For facilities near farmland, understand their policies on pesticide application notifications and air quality on high-wind days. Also, given Texico's location, ask about their transportation policies if they offer school pickup for older siblings from local elementary schools. Observing how the staff engages with children in a small-town, family-oriented environment is also crucial.