The Best Daycare Centers in Cokeville, WY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Cokeville. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Cokeville
Cokeville Elementary Preschool
Lincoln County School District #2
Cokeville Elementary Preschool operates as part of the public school system, providing high-quality early childhood education with certified teachers and a structured curriculum aligned with Wyoming early learning standards. The program focuses on school readiness, social-emotional development, and foundational academic skills. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, playground equipment, and access to school resources. What makes this program stand out is its integration with the elementary school system, ensuring smooth transitions to kindergarten and highly qualified teaching staff with early childhood certifications.
Daycare Services:
Bear River Head Start - Kemmerer Center
Bear River Head Start
Bear River Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood services with a focus on low-income families, offering evidence-based curriculum and family support services. The program features highly trained staff with early childhood credentials, small class sizes, and individualized learning plans. Services include health screenings, nutritional meals, and parent education. The center stands out for its comprehensive approach to child development, including health, nutrition, and family support services, with transportation options available for Cokeville area families.
Daycare Services:
Star Valley Children's Center
Private Ownership
Star Valley Children's Center offers a nurturing environment with developmentally appropriate curriculum and experienced early childhood educators. The facility features secure, modern classrooms, outdoor play areas, and age-specific learning centers. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, literacy development, and social skills. What makes this center exceptional is their low child-to-teacher ratios, comprehensive security systems, and extended hours to accommodate working families. They serve families throughout Lincoln County, including Cokeville residents, with structured educational programs and flexible scheduling options.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Cokeville, WY
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Cokeville, Wyoming?
In Cokeville, due to its small, rural population, licensed childcare options are primarily limited to Family Child Care (FCC) homes. These are in-home daycare providers licensed by the State of Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS) to care for a small number of children, typically up to 8, in a residential setting. There are currently no large daycare centers in Cokeville itself. Some families may also utilize legally exempt "relative care" or small, unlicensed "neighbor care" arrangements. For licensed options, parents should check the DFS provider search tool, as availability can change quickly in a small community.
How much does daycare typically cost in Cokeville, and are there any financial assistance programs?
In Cokeville, costs for licensed Family Child Care homes are generally lower than urban Wyoming averages but can vary. Expect to pay approximately $25 to $35 per day for full-time care for one child. Part-time or hourly rates may be higher. The primary financial assistance program is the Wyoming Child Care Subsidy Program, administered by the DFS. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or education). Given the limited provider options, it's crucial to confirm that a chosen provider accepts the subsidy. Local community organizations or the Lincoln County Family & Consumer Sciences office may also have information on occasional grants or support.
Are there long waitlists for childcare in Cokeville, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are a significant challenge in Cokeville. With very few licensed providers, spots are extremely limited and can fill up months, sometimes over a year, in advance. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a move to Cokeville begin their search as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 6-12 months before care is needed. Networking within the community through local churches, the Cokeville Elementary School, or community Facebook groups can be invaluable for hearing about potential openings or new providers starting up.
What should I look for when evaluating a Family Child Care home in Cokeville?
First and foremost, verify the provider's current license status with Wyoming DFS. During a visit, observe the home's safety (outlet covers, secure chemicals, fenced yard), cleanliness, and the overall environment. Ask about the provider's experience, training in CPR/First Aid, daily schedule, discipline philosophy, and emergency plans. In a rural area like Cokeville, also inquire about their plan for school closure days (snow days) and whether they provide transportation to/from the local school for before/after-school care. Personal references from other Cokeville parents are incredibly valuable due to the close-knit nature of the community.
What are the options for before and after-school care for school-age children in Cokeville?
Cokeville Elementary School is the primary school, and it does not typically operate a formal, on-site before/after-school program. Therefore, care for school-age children is usually provided by the same licensed Family Child Care homes that serve younger children. These providers often offer transportation to and from the school. Some families may arrange informal care with other parents or trusted community members. It's important to coordinate schedules closely with a provider, as their hours may be tailored around the school bell times and the rural bus routes that serve outlying areas of Lincoln County.