The Best Daycare Centers in Fort Stockton, TX
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Fort Stockton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Fort Stockton
Little Lambs Daycare
Independent
Little Lambs Daycare has been serving Fort Stockton families for nearly two decades with a comprehensive early childhood education program. Their curriculum focuses on developmental milestones through play-based learning and structured activities. The center features certified early childhood educators with low teacher-to-child ratios, ensuring personalized attention. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and nutritional meal programs. Safety is prioritized with secure entry systems, regular safety drills, and comprehensive background checks for all staff. The daycare emphasizes Christian values while providing inclusive care for all children.
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First Baptist Church Child Development Center
First Baptist Church of Fort Stockton
Operating as part of First Baptist Church's ministry, this Child Development Center offers a faith-based educational approach combined with developmentally appropriate curriculum. The center features state-licensed teachers with specialized training in early childhood development. Their program includes literacy development, social skills building, and hands-on learning activities. The facility maintains excellent safety records with secure environments, regular health inspections, and emergency preparedness protocols. Parents appreciate the strong communication system and the center's commitment to nurturing each child's spiritual, emotional, and academic growth.
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Primrose School of Midland
Primrose Schools Franchising Company
While located in Midland (approximately 80 miles from Fort Stockton), Primrose School serves families throughout the Permian Basin region with their nationally recognized Balanced Learning® curriculum. This accredited facility features degreed teachers and maintains exceptional staff-to-child ratios. The curriculum blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance to support literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies. The school offers secure, state-of-the-art facilities with monitored access, comprehensive safety protocols, and nutritious chef-prepared meals. Many Fort Stockton families choose this option for its rigorous educational standards and proven track record of kindergarten readiness.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Fort Stockton, TX
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Fort Stockton, TX, and are there any local assistance programs?
In Fort Stockton, the cost for full-time daycare or preschool can vary, but you can generally expect to pay between $450 to $650 per month for a toddler or preschool-aged child. Infant care tends to be more expensive, often ranging from $550 to $750 monthly. These rates are typically lower than in larger Texas metropolitan areas. For financial assistance, local families can apply for the Texas Workforce Commission's (TWC) Child Care Services (CCS) program, which provides subsidies based on income, work, or school attendance requirements. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's advisable to contact the Pecos County Community Action Committee or the TWC office serving the region for the most current eligibility information and application processes.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Fort Stockton?
All licensed childcare operations in Fort Stockton are regulated by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). You can verify a provider's license and view their compliance history online through the Texas HHSC "Child Care Licensing" search portal. This public database shows the provider's license status, capacity, and any reported deficiencies from inspections over the past few years. For a more localized perspective, you can also contact the Fort Stockton Independent School District's Family Engagement office or the Pecos County Public Health Department, as they often have community knowledge of local providers. Always ask the daycare director for their most recent inspection report during your tour.
Are there many options for infant care in Fort Stockton, and what are typical waitlist times?
Infant care slots (for children under 18 months) are the most limited in Fort Stockton due to stricter state-mandated caregiver-to-child ratios. There are a handful of licensed daycare centers and registered home providers that accept infants. Because of the limited availability, waitlists are common and can range from 2 to 6 months, especially for popular providers. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists during pregnancy or as early as possible. Some providers may give priority to siblings of current enrollees or families employed by certain local industries, such as oil and gas or healthcare. Networking with other parents in local community groups or on social media can provide real-time insights on openings.
What should I look for in a daycare that accommodates the specific needs of a rural community like Fort Stockton?
When choosing a daycare in Fort Stockton, consider factors unique to our rural setting. Look for providers with flexible hours that accommodate common local work schedules in agriculture, oilfield services, healthcare, and retail, which may include early starts or variable shifts. Inquire about their policies for school closures or delayed starts for the Fort Stockton ISD, as this affects sibling pick-up/drop-off. Given the climate, check for safe, shaded outdoor play areas protected from the sun and wind. Also, ask about their preparedness for occasional weather-related issues like dust storms or power outages. A strong community connection, such as participation in local events like the Water Carnival or relationships with the Pecos County AgriLife Extension for educational programs, can be a positive sign of a well-integrated provider.
Are there part-time, drop-in, or after-school care options available for school-aged children in Fort Stockton?
Yes, there are several options for school-aged care in Fort Stockton. The Fort Stockton Independent School District typically operates an after-school program at the elementary campuses, which provides care until around 6:00 PM and includes homework help and activities. Some licensed daycare centers also offer after-school pickup services from local schools. For part-time or drop-in care, your options are more limited but do exist, primarily through registered family homes or some centers that have occasional availability. These are ideal for parents with irregular schedules. The Boys & Girls Club of Fort Stockton is another key resource, offering affordable after-school and summer programs focused on recreation and development. It's best to contact these programs directly well before the school year starts, as spaces can fill quickly.