The Best Daycare Centers in Frontier, WY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Frontier. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Frontier
Little Lambs Learning Center
Independent
Little Lambs Learning Center is a highly-regarded Christian-based childcare facility serving the Frontier area from nearby Kemmerer. They offer a comprehensive developmental program with age-appropriate curriculum including ABC Mouse technology integration, hands-on learning activities, and structured play. The center features certified early childhood educators with low student-to-teacher ratios, secure entry systems, and modern safety protocols. Their program emphasizes character development, social skills, and school readiness with regular progress reports and parent communication. The facility includes both indoor and outdoor play areas with age-appropriate equipment and offers nutritious meals and snacks.
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Kemmerer Children's Center
Independent
Kemmerer Children's Center provides quality childcare services to families in Frontier and the surrounding Lincoln County area. The center focuses on creating a nurturing environment with developmentally appropriate curriculum that includes literacy development, math readiness, and social-emotional learning. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified with ongoing professional development training. The facility maintains strict security measures including coded entry systems and comprehensive background checks. They offer flexible scheduling options and maintain open communication with parents through daily reports and regular conferences. The center is known for its clean, well-maintained environment and engaging learning spaces.
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Diamondville Preschool & Daycare
Independent
Located just minutes from Frontier in neighboring Diamondville, this established childcare center offers a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation. The program includes thematic units, arts and crafts, music and movement, and outdoor exploration. Teachers are experienced early childhood professionals with specialized training in child development. The center features secure facilities with monitored access, age-appropriate classrooms, and safe outdoor play areas. They emphasize creating a home-like atmosphere while providing strong educational foundations. The daycare is particularly noted for its individualized attention and strong community connections, serving families throughout southwestern Wyoming.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Frontier, WY
What types of licensed childcare options are available in Frontier, Wyoming, and how do I verify a provider's license?
In Frontier, Wyoming, licensed childcare options primarily include Family Child Care Homes (caring for up to 8 children in a provider's residence) and some potential participation in a nearby licensed center. Due to Frontier's small, rural nature, Family Child Care Homes are the most common and accessible option. To verify a provider's license, you must contact the Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS), which oversees all childcare licensing in the state. You can search their online provider database or call the DFS Child Care Licensing unit directly. It's crucial to confirm the license is current and to review any compliance history. Given the limited options, many families in Frontier also utilize legally exempt, unlicensed care (like care by a relative or neighbor for fewer than 4 children), but these are not regulated or inspected by the state.
How long are typical waitlists for childcare in Frontier, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Given Frontier's limited population and childcare providers, waitlists can be surprisingly long and are common for the few licensed homes available. It's not unusual for a sought-after provider to have a waitlist of 6 months to over a year, especially for infant care. To secure a spot, parents are advised to begin their search during pregnancy. Contact every licensed provider in Frontier and inquire about their enrollment process and waitlist policies. Be prepared to put your name on multiple lists, even if the timing isn't perfect. Building a relationship with providers by checking in periodically (every few months) can also be beneficial. Networking with other local parents through community groups or social media can sometimes lead to learning about openings before they are publicly advertised.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Frontier, Wyoming, and is there any financial assistance available?
For a licensed Family Child Care Home in Frontier, average costs typically range from $600 to $900 per month for full-time care of one child. This is generally lower than state or national averages due to the rural cost of living, but it is still a significant portion of a local family's income. The primary source of financial assistance is the Wyoming Department of Family Services Child Care Subsidy Program. Eligibility is based on family income, size, and need (such as employment or education requirements). Given the economic profile of the area, many Frontier families may qualify for partial assistance. You must apply through DFS, and if approved, the subsidy is paid directly to the licensed provider. It's important to confirm that your chosen provider accepts the DFS subsidy.
Are there any unique considerations for childcare in Frontier related to its rural location and weather?
Absolutely. Parents in Frontier must consider several location-specific factors. First, transportation is key; providers may not offer pickup/dropoff services, and severe winter weather can make roads impassable, leading to unexpected closures. Have a clear plan for alternative transportation and backup care for snow days. Second, the isolation means fewer options for substitute caregivers if a provider is sick; parents should inquire about the provider's own backup plan. Third, many childcare programs in rural Wyoming incorporate outdoor play and an appreciation for the natural environment, which is a benefit. Finally, emergency medical response times can be longer, so ensure your provider is certified in pediatric first aid/CPR and has a well-communicated emergency plan that accounts for the distance to the nearest clinic or hospital.
What should I look for when touring a potential in-home daycare in a small community like Frontier?
When touring a Family Child Care Home in Frontier, beyond standard checks for safety and cleanliness, pay close attention to factors amplified in a small town. First, observe the provider's interaction with the children—in a tight-knit community, you want someone whose caregiving philosophy aligns with your family's values. Ask about their daily routine and how they handle behavioral issues. Second, inquire about their network: do they have connections with other local providers for support or emergency coverage? Third, discuss their policies on illness, given that in a small community, germs can spread quickly through limited playgroups. Fourth, verify their understanding of Wyoming's specific licensing rules, such as safe sleep practices for infants and mandatory background checks for any adults in the home. Finally, trust your instincts about the environment and ask for references from other Frontier parents you may know or can contact.