The Best Daycare Centers in Manville, WY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Manville. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Manville
Niobrara County Child Development Center
Independent Non-Profit Organization
This center provides comprehensive early childhood education with a play-based learning approach that emphasizes social-emotional development and school readiness. Staff members hold early childhood education credentials and are CPR/First Aid certified. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate learning environments, and nutritious meal programs. Parents consistently praise the low teacher-to-child ratios and personalized attention given to each child's developmental milestones. The center serves families throughout Niobrara County, including Manville residents.
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Douglas Early Learning Center
Independent Childcare Provider
Known for its structured yet creative curriculum that integrates literacy, mathematics, and STEM activities through hands-on learning. The center maintains small class sizes with qualified teachers who have backgrounds in early childhood education. Safety features include monitored access, regular facility inspections, and emergency preparedness drills. The program emphasizes character development and community involvement, serving families from Converse County and surrounding areas including Manville. Parent reviews highlight excellent communication and individualized learning plans.
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KinderCare Learning Center at Casper
KinderCare Education LLC
As part of a nationally recognized network, this center offers a research-based curriculum focused on whole-child development across cognitive, social, and physical domains. Features include purpose-built learning centers, technology-enhanced classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. All teachers undergo rigorous background checks and continuous professional development. The center maintains strict safety protocols including keypad entry systems and health screening procedures. While located in Casper, it serves families throughout central Wyoming, including those commuting from Manville, with flexible scheduling options and transportation services available for school-age children.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Manville, WY
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Manville, Wyoming, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Wyoming, all childcare facilities caring for more than two children unrelated to the provider must be licensed by the Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS). This includes family daycare homes and childcare centers. Licensed providers in Manville must meet specific standards for staff-to-child ratios, health and safety inspections, background checks, and staff training in areas like CPR and First Aid. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the official Wyoming DFS Child Care Finder website or contact the DFS Child Care Licensing office directly. It's always recommended to ask the provider for their current license certificate and to check for any recent compliance history.
Given Manville's small population, what types of childcare options are typically available, and are waitlists common?
Due to Manville's rural and small-town nature, childcare options are more limited compared to larger cities. Your primary options will typically be licensed family daycare homes, which operate out of a provider's residence and care for a smaller group of children. There are unlikely to be large childcare centers in Manville itself. Because of this limited supply, waitlists for reputable providers are very common and can be lengthy. Parents are strongly advised to begin their search during pregnancy or several months before they need care. Many families also look to neighboring communities like Lusk or even Douglas for additional center-based options, though this involves longer commute times.
What is the average cost for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Manville, WY?
While costs can vary by provider, full-time daycare in Manville for an infant or toddler typically ranges from approximately $600 to $850 per month. Family daycare homes often have slightly lower rates than centers would in larger towns. This is generally below the national average but can represent a significant portion of a household budget in the local economy. It's important to ask providers exactly what is included in the weekly rate (meals, snacks, supplies, etc.). For financial assistance, Wyoming offers a Child Care Subsidy Program through DFS for qualifying families based on income and need.
Are there any state or local programs in Wyoming that help with childcare costs for working families in Manville?
Yes, the primary program is the Wyoming Child Care Subsidy (also known as the Child Care Assistance Program), administered by the Department of Family Services. This state-funded program helps eligible low- and moderate-income working families, as well as those in education or training programs, pay for licensed childcare. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and reason for care (e.g., employment). You can apply online through the Wyoming DFS website or contact your local DFS office. Additionally, the federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit can be claimed on your taxes to offset some childcare expenses.
What should I look for and ask about during a tour of a family daycare home in Manville?
When touring a potential family daycare home in Manville, go beyond the basics. First, confirm their Wyoming DFS license is current. Ask about the provider's experience, training, and backup plan for when they are sick. Observe the safety of the home: check for secure cabinets, covered outlets, safe outdoor play areas, and cleanliness. Inquire about the daily schedule, educational philosophy, meal provisions, and screen time policy. Given the rural setting, ask about their plan for emergencies, including severe weather and the response time of local emergency services. Crucially, ask for references from current or former parents. Trust your instincts about the environment and how the provider interacts with the children in their care.