The Best Daycare Centers in Riverton, UT
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Riverton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Riverton
The Goddard School of Riverton
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Riverton offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their NAEYC-accredited facility features highly qualified teachers with degrees in early childhood education, low student-to-teacher ratios, and secure entry systems. The curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social-emotional development in purpose-built classrooms with modern learning materials. Parents praise the consistent communication through daily reports and the nurturing environment that prepares children for kindergarten readiness.
Daycare Services:
La Petite Academy of Riverton
La Petite Academy
La Petite Academy of Riverton provides comprehensive early education with their proprietary Links to Learning curriculum that emphasizes school readiness skills. The center features state-licensed teachers with ongoing professional development, secure keypad entry systems, and age-appropriate playgrounds. Their program includes technology integration, Spanish language exposure, and hands-on learning activities. The facility maintains excellent health and safety protocols with regular sanitation procedures and nutritional meal programs. Parents consistently highlight the caring staff and the strong academic foundation children receive.
Daycare Services:
The Learning Experience - Herriman
The Learning Experience
Located in nearby Herriman and serving Riverton families, The Learning Experience offers the proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that combines academic, physical, and social development. The center features highly trained early childhood educators, advanced security systems including CCTV monitoring, and innovative learning spaces. Their program includes early literacy, mathematics, manners and etiquette, and philanthropy education. The facility boasts modern classrooms, indoor gymnasium, and secure outdoor play areas. Parents consistently praise the engaging environment and the visible developmental progress children make.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Riverton, UT
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Riverton, Utah?
In Riverton, the cost of full-time childcare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For an infant (under 2 years), you can expect to pay between $850 and $1,100 per month at a licensed daycare center. For toddlers and preschoolers (ages 2-5), monthly fees typically range from $700 to $950. In-home licensed daycare providers often charge slightly less, averaging $650-$900 per month. These rates are generally in line with the Salt Lake County average. It's important to ask what is included in the tuition, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. Some centers in Riverton may also have annual registration or supply fees.
How do I verify a daycare is properly licensed in Riverton, and what are Utah's key regulations?
All childcare providers caring for more than four unrelated children must be licensed by the Utah Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Licensing. You can verify a Riverton provider's license status and view any past inspection reports by using the official "Child Care Licensing Lookup" tool on the Utah DHHS website. Key Utah regulations include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:7 for 2-year-olds, 1:15 for 4-year-olds), background checks for all employees, and required health and safety training. Licensed providers in Riverton undergo regular unannounced inspections to ensure compliance with these rules, which cover everything from safe sleep practices for infants to outdoor play space safety.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Riverton, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common for infant and toddler spots at highly-regarded daycare centers and preschools in Riverton, especially for programs affiliated with the Jordan School District or popular private chains. For infant care, it is advisable to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as your second trimester of pregnancy. For toddler and preschool openings, starting your search 6 to 9 months in advance is a prudent timeline. Many Riverton parents find that in-home daycares may have more immediate availability, but quality options still fill quickly. When touring a facility, always ask about their specific waitlist process, estimated timeline, and if a deposit is required to hold a spot.
What are some of the unique childcare options or programs available specifically in Riverton?
Riverton offers several community-centric childcare options. The city's Parks and Recreation Department often hosts preschool programs at local community centers, which are popular for their structured curriculum and integration into city activities. Several daycare centers in Riverton participate in Utah's "Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS)," known as "Baby Watch," which helps identify high-quality programs. Additionally, many local centers incorporate Utah's unique geography into learning, with themes about mountains, lakes, and outdoor recreation. For school-age children, the Jordan School District provides before- and after-school programs at many elementary schools within the city, which is a convenient option for working parents.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare facility in Riverton?
When touring a daycare in Riverton, go beyond the basics. First, observe the cleanliness and safety of the environment—check for secured cabinets, covered outlets, and fenced outdoor play areas. Notice how the staff interacts with the children; they should be engaged and responsive. Ask about their staff turnover rate, as consistency is crucial. Inquire about their daily schedule, discipline policy, and how they handle emergencies, including Utah's specific requirements for earthquake and fire drills. Given Riverton's weather, ask about their policy for outdoor play in winter and summer. Finally, request references from current Riverton-area parents to get firsthand feedback on their experience with the provider's communication and reliability.