The Best Daycare Centers in Burns, WY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Burns. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Burns
Little Lambs Learning Center
Independent
Little Lambs Learning Center provides comprehensive early childhood education with a play-based learning approach that emphasizes social, emotional, and academic development. Their curriculum includes literacy, math, science, and creative arts, with certified teachers who maintain low student-to-teacher ratios. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and nutritious meal programs. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment and strong communication from experienced staff who hold early childhood education credentials.
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The Learning Center
Independent
The Learning Center offers a structured educational program focusing on kindergarten readiness through a balanced curriculum of academic learning and creative exploration. Their facility includes modern classrooms, outdoor play areas, and developmentally appropriate learning materials. Staff members hold degrees in early childhood education and participate in ongoing professional development. The center maintains rigorous safety protocols, including secure check-in systems and comprehensive background checks. Parents highlight the center's engaging activities and strong community atmosphere.
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Bright Horizons at Cheyenne
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons provides a research-based curriculum through their World at Their Fingers approach, emphasizing literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills development. The center features purpose-built classrooms, secure outdoor learning environments, and technology-enhanced learning spaces. All lead teachers hold bachelor's degrees in education or related fields, and the center maintains enhanced health and safety protocols including regular sanitation and emergency preparedness training. The national chain's resources combined with local customization make it a popular choice for families seeking comprehensive early education.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Burns, WY
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Burns, Wyoming, and how can I verify a provider's status?
In Burns, Wyoming, all childcare facilities caring for more than two unrelated children must be licensed by the Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS). This includes family daycare homes and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and training. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the Wyoming DFS Child Care Licensing Search tool available on their official website. You can search by provider name, city (Burns), or zip code. It's highly recommended to only use licensed providers, as this offers you recourse and assurance of basic safety standards. You can also contact the DFS Eastern Regional Office for assistance.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers or in-home providers in the Burns area, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the limited number of providers in a smaller community like Burns, waitlists can be significant, often ranging from 3 to 9 months, especially for infant care. Popular in-home providers may have even shorter, more sporadic openings. To secure a spot, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Contact multiple providers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee, which is common. Consider expanding your search to nearby towns like Cheyenne or Pine Bluffs, though this adds commute time. Stay in regular, polite contact with providers on your list to express continued interest.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Burns, WY, and are there any local or state financial assistance programs?
In Burns and the surrounding Laramie County area, average costs for full-time, licensed childcare range from approximately $650 to $900 per month for preschool-aged children. Infant care is typically more expensive, often exceeding $900 per month. These rates are generally lower than in Cheyenne but can vary based on the provider's amenities and hours. For financial assistance, Wyoming offers the Child Care Subsidy Program through DFS, which helps eligible low-income working families, those in training, or teen parents. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. You can apply through the Wyoming DFS website or your local DFS office in Cheyenne.
Are there any unique childcare options in Burns that cater to families with non-traditional or agricultural work schedules?
Yes, given Burns' rural and agricultural setting, some providers may offer more flexible hours to accommodate farming, ranching, or shift work schedules. While standard centers typically operate 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM, some licensed family daycare homes may offer earlier drop-offs, later pick-ups, or even occasional overnight care. It's crucial to discuss your specific schedule needs upfront. Additionally, informal "babysitting co-ops" with other local families are common in tight-knit communities like Burns and can be a vital resource for covering odd hours or emergency situations. Networking through local churches, community boards, or the Burns Town Hall can help you find these flexible arrangements.
What should I look for during an in-person visit to a potential daycare in Burns, and are there any local resources for referrals?
During a visit, observe the cleanliness, safety (outlet covers, secure gates, clean toys), and how staff interact with children. Ask about their emergency plans for severe weather common to Southeast Wyoming. Inquire about their outdoor play policy and if children get time outside daily, weather permitting. Check for a current license and ask about staff turnover. For local referrals, a great resource is the **Laramie County Early Childhood Council**. They help connect parents with quality care options. Also, ask for recommendations from other parents at the Burns Community Church, the Burns Elementary School (for before/after-school care leads), or on community Facebook pages like "Burns, Wyoming Community." Personal referrals are invaluable in a small town.