The Best Daycare Centers in Mattawa, WA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Mattawa. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Mattawa
Mattawa Early Learning Center
Mattawa School District
Operated by the Mattawa School District, this center provides high-quality early childhood education with a focus on school readiness. The program employs certified early childhood educators and follows developmentally appropriate practices. Features include comprehensive developmental screenings, structured learning activities, and strong parent-teacher partnerships. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and offers a safe, nurturing environment with age-appropriate learning materials. Their curriculum emphasizes literacy development, social-emotional learning, and kindergarten preparation.
Daycare Services:
Bright Horizons at Moses Lake
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
As part of the nationally recognized Bright Horizons network, this center offers comprehensive early education programs with research-based curriculum. Features highly qualified teachers with early childhood credentials, modern security systems including keypad entry, and developmentally appropriate classrooms. The World at Their Fingers curriculum emphasizes STEAM learning, literacy, and social development. Center includes nutritious meal programs, large outdoor play areas, and regular parent communication through the MyBrightDay app. Serves families from Mattawa and surrounding communities.
Daycare Services:
Children's Village
Samaritan Healthcare
Operated by Samaritan Healthcare, this childcare center provides exceptional early childhood education with a focus on health and wellness. Features state-licensed teachers with early childhood degrees, comprehensive safety protocols including health screenings, and developmentally appropriate learning environments. The curriculum incorporates health education, nutrition awareness, and physical activity. Center includes secure access systems, outdoor learning gardens, and partnerships with healthcare professionals. Offers flexible scheduling and serves as a trusted childcare provider for families throughout Grant County, including Mattawa residents.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Mattawa, WA
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Mattawa, WA, and how do I find them?
In Mattawa, the primary licensed childcare options are family home daycares (licensed to care for up to 12 children in a provider's residence) and childcare centers. Due to Mattawa's smaller, rural community, family home daycares are more common than large centers. To find licensed providers, the most reliable resource is the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) online childcare search tool. You can filter by location (Mattawa, WA 99349), age of your child, and type of care. Additionally, local community boards at places like the Mattawa Community Medical Clinic or the Desert Aire Chapel, and Facebook groups such as "Mattawa Community Forum," are often used by providers to advertise openings.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with childcare costs in Mattawa?
Yes, the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) administers the Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) subsidy program, which is available to eligible families in Mattawa. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and activity requirements (like working, attending school, or participating in a training program). Given the agricultural and seasonal work prevalent in the Mattawa area, it's important to note that the program can accommodate variable income. You apply through the DCYF website or your local DCYF Community Services Office. The Grant County Health District may also have information on local resources or temporary assistance programs.
What is the typical cost range for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Mattawa, and are waitlists common?
In Mattawa, full-time care for an infant or toddler typically ranges from $600 to $900 per month at a licensed family home daycare. Costs at a center, if one is available, may be slightly higher. These rates are generally lower than in larger Washington cities like Seattle or Tri-Cities, but reflect the local economy. Waitlists can be common, especially for infant care, due to the limited number of licensed providers in this rural area. It's highly recommended to start your search at least 3-6 months before you need care. Many providers in Mattawa operate with small, consistent groups, so openings may only occur when a child ages out or a family moves.
What should I look for during a daycare visit specific to providers in the Mattawa area?
When visiting a daycare in Mattawa, in addition to standard checks for cleanliness, safety, and provider interaction, consider factors unique to the locale. Ask about their plan for extreme summer heat and wildfire smoke, which are common in the Columbia Basin. Do they have air conditioning and air filtration? For outdoor play, is there adequate shaded area? Given the rural setting, inquire about their transportation or field trip policies—are children ever taken on outings, and what safety protocols are in place? Also, ask about their communication during potential power outages or internet service interruptions, which can happen in more remote areas. Finally, verify their DCYF license is current and posted, and ask for references from other local families.
How does the agricultural season in the Mattawa area impact childcare availability and schedules?
Mattawa's economy is heavily tied to agriculture, particularly fruit orchards. This significantly impacts childcare. Many families have seasonal income fluctuations, and some providers may offer adjusted payment plans. More notably, demand for childcare can spike during peak harvest seasons (late summer through fall) when more parents are working long hours. Conversely, some family home providers may take vacations or have reduced hours during the slower winter months. It's crucial to discuss the provider's year-round schedule and policies for holiday closures that may align with agricultural cycles. Some providers might be more flexible with drop-in or part-time care during harvest, but securing a consistent, full-time spot often requires a year-round commitment.