The Best Daycare Centers in Amarillo, TX
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Amarillo. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Amarillo
Primrose School of Amarillo
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Amarillo operates as part of the nationally recognized Primrose Schools system with a Balanced Learning® curriculum that blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance. The facility features dedicated infant rooms with low teacher-to-child ratios, age-appropriate learning environments, and secure entry systems. Their curriculum focuses on character development, literacy, math, and science through hands-on activities. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The center includes both indoor and outdoor learning spaces with modern safety features and nutritional meal programs.
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The Goddard School of Amarillo
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Amarillo offers a play-based learning approach through their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that promotes social, emotional, and academic development. The facility features secure classrooms with observation windows, age-appropriate learning centers, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Their program includes Spanish language exposure, STEAM activities, and literacy development. All teachers are early childhood educated and participate in continuous training. The center maintains strict safety protocols including secured entry systems and comprehensive background checks for all staff.
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Kids R Kids of Amarillo
Kids R Kids Learning Academies
Kids R Kids of Amarillo provides advanced technology-based learning through their STEAM Ahead® curriculum that integrates science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. The facility features secure classrooms with live streaming video access for parents, indoor gymnasium for physical activity, and age-specific playgrounds. Their infant program focuses on sensory development and attachment, while preschool curriculum prepares children for kindergarten readiness. The center employs degreed early childhood educators and maintains small class sizes with low student-teacher ratios. Safety features include keypad entry systems, comprehensive security monitoring, and strict health protocols.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Amarillo, TX
What are the typical costs for daycare in Amarillo, TX, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Amarillo, daycare costs vary significantly based on the child's age and the type of facility. For infants, you can expect to pay between $700 to $1,000 per month at a licensed daycare center, while toddler care typically ranges from $600 to $850. Home-based childcare is often more affordable, averaging $500 to $700 monthly. Several local and state programs can help with costs. The Texas Workforce Commission administers the Child Care Services (CCS) program, which provides subsidies to eligible low-income families in Potter and Randall counties. Additionally, the Child Care Associates of Amarillo can guide you through application processes. It's also worth checking if your employer offers a Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Amarillo?
All licensed daycare centers and registered home providers in Amarillo are regulated by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). You can verify a provider's license and view their compliance history, including any violations, by using the "Child Care Licensing Search" tool on the HHSC website. Simply enter the provider's name, city (Amarillo), or zip code. This report will show their license status, capacity, and details of any past inspections or deficiencies. For added peace of mind, you can also contact the local HHSC Child Care Licensing office that oversees the Amarillo area to ask specific questions about a provider's record.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Amarillo, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common for many highly-rated daycare centers and infant rooms in Amarillo, especially in growing suburban areas like southwest Amarillo or near major employers like the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center or Bell Helicopter. For infant care, it is strongly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as your second trimester of pregnancy, or at least 6-9 months before your needed start date. For toddler or preschool slots, 3-6 months of lead time is advisable. When contacting centers, always ask about their specific waitlist process, any fees to join, and how often they update families on their position.
What are some unique childcare options or programs specific to the Amarillo area?
Amarillo offers several unique programs that blend childcare with local culture and education. The Don Harrington Discovery Center provides STEM-focused preschool and summer camp programs. The Amarillo Zoo and the Amarillo Botanical Gardens also offer seasonal day camps and educational programs for children. For faith-based care, there are numerous programs affiliated with large local churches. Furthermore, given Amarillo's agricultural roots, some preschools and daycares incorporate farm-to-table concepts or animal interactions. The "Amarillo Independent School District" also offers pre-K programs for eligible 4-year-olds, which can be a part-day option to supplement other care.
What should I consider regarding weather and safety for daycare in Amarillo's climate?
Amarillo's climate presents specific considerations. Severe weather, including tornadoes, high winds, and occasional winter ice storms, is a reality. When evaluating a daycare, ask about their severe weather sheltering plans and protocols. A good center will have a designated safe room (like an interior bathroom or hallway without windows) and conduct regular tornado drills. Also, inquire about their outdoor play policy during high wind advisories or extreme heat in the summer, as well as their heating and backup power plans for winter outages. Ensure the facility has secure pick-up/drop-off areas that are protected from the wind. Finally, verify they have clear communication plans for notifying parents during school closures or early dismissals due to weather.
Childcare Insights for Amarillo
Finding the right daycare center for your child is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a parent in Amarillo. It's about more than just convenience; it's about finding a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where your little one can thrive while you're at work. The search for a "daycare center near me" in our city comes with its own unique considerations, from our sprawling neighborhoods to our strong sense of community. Starting your search early is key, as quality centers in popular areas like Wolflin, Paramount Boulevard, or near the medical district can have waiting lists. Many Amarillo parents find that driving a few extra minutes can open up wonderful options in areas like Puckett or off Coulter Street that they might not have initially considered.
When evaluating daycare centers in Amarillo, it's wise to look beyond the basics. Yes, you'll want to verify state licensing and inspect the cleanliness and safety of the facility. But also consider how a center embraces our local culture. Does it have ample outdoor space for children to play, considering our wide-open Texas skies and sometimes windy days? Are there plans for indoor activities on days when the Panhandle weather is less cooperative? Ask about their policies for communication; a good center will provide regular updates, whether through an app or daily sheets, giving you peace of mind about your child's day. Don't hesitate to ask for references from other local parents—our community is often very willing to share their experiences.
Practical logistics play a big role in your daily life. Think about your commute to work, perhaps to the Amarillo Economic Development Corporation, the hospitals, or one of the many businesses along I-40. A center that is on your route can save precious time and reduce stress for both you and your child. Many centers in Amarillo offer flexible hours to accommodate shift workers at places like the Tyson plant or Pantex, so be sure to inquire if your schedule is non-traditional. It's also perfectly acceptable to make a surprise visit after you've enrolled; a quality daycare in Amarillo will be transparent and welcome you to see the everyday rhythms of their program.
Ultimately, trust your instincts during your visits. Notice how the staff interacts with the children—are they engaged and speaking warmly? Observe if the children in the rooms seem happy and busy. The right daycare center in Amarillo will feel like an extension of your family, a place where the values of our friendly Texas Panhandle community are reflected in the care your child receives. Taking the time to find this fit is an investment in your child's early development and your own peace of mind, making those mornings dropping off your little Amarilloan a little easier for everyone involved.