The Best Daycare Centers in Story, WY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Story. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Story
KinderCare Learning Center at Sheridan
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare Learning Center at Sheridan is a nationally accredited facility known for its research-based curriculum that emphasizes early literacy, math, and social-emotional development. The center features highly qualified teachers with Child Development Associate (CDA) credentials or higher, and maintains low teacher-to-child ratios for personalized attention. Safety is prioritized with secured entry systems, regular drills, and sanitization protocols. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play areas, and a nutritious meal program. Parents praise the center's structured learning environment and strong communication, making it a trusted choice for families in Story and the wider Sheridan area.
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Little Lambs Learning Center
Independent
Little Lambs Learning Center is a highly regarded local daycare offering a play-based curriculum that integrates Montessori and Reggio Emilia-inspired approaches to foster creativity and independence. Staff members hold degrees in early childhood education and participate in ongoing training. The center emphasizes safety with fenced outdoor play spaces, CCTV monitoring, and strict health policies. Facilities include dedicated infant rooms, sensory play areas, and a garden for hands-on learning. With a focus on individualized development tracking and strong parent partnerships, Little Lambs has earned consistent praise for its nurturing environment and serves families from Story and surrounding communities.
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Sheridan Early Childhood Center
Sheridan County School District 2
Sheridan Early Childhood Center is a public-private partnership offering a comprehensive early education program with a focus on school readiness through a balanced curriculum of academic and social skills. The center employs state-licensed teachers with specialized training in early childhood development and maintains high safety standards with background-checked staff and modern security systems. Features include developmentally appropriate classrooms, inclusive play equipment, and partnerships with local health services. The center is celebrated for its community involvement, transparent communication, and support for diverse learners, making it a top choice for Story residents seeking quality childcare in the Sheridan region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Story, WY
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Story, WY, and how do I find them?
In Story, Wyoming, licensed childcare options are primarily Family Child Care (FCC) homes, as the small, rural nature of the community means there are no large daycare centers. These are licensed providers who care for a limited number of children in their own residences. To find licensed providers, your primary resource is the Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS) Child Care Finder website. You can search specifically for Sheridan County (where Story is located) to see a list of licensed homes, their contact information, and their current license status. Additionally, local community boards at the Story Store or the post office, and word-of-mouth through local parent networks, are invaluable for discovering both licensed and potential license-exempt (caring for 1-2 children) caregivers in the area.
How long are typical waitlists for childcare in Story, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to limited provider capacity in Story, waitlists can be significant, often ranging from 6 months to over a year, especially for infants and toddlers. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on multiple lists as early as possible, even during pregnancy. When contacting a provider, be prepared to provide your child's anticipated start date and be flexible if possible. Building a relationship with providers by introducing yourself and checking in periodically (without being intrusive) can be helpful. Also, explore options in the broader Sheridan County area, including the town of Sheridan about 20 miles away, which may have more center-based options, though this adds a substantial commute.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Story, and is there any financial assistance available?
For licensed Family Child Care homes in Story, average full-time rates typically range from $35 to $50 per day per child, which translates to roughly $700 to $1,000 per month. Infant care is often at the higher end of this scale. Wyoming offers financial assistance through the DFS Child Care Subsidy Program for eligible families based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or education). You must apply through the DFS, and if approved, the subsidy is paid directly to the licensed provider. It's crucial to confirm with any potential provider that they accept the state subsidy before securing a spot, as not all private providers do.
What specific Wyoming state regulations should I ask a potential daycare provider about in Story?
Wyoming has strict licensing rules for Family Child Care homes. Key regulations to inquire about include: **Staff-to-Child Ratios** (e.g., for children under 2, the ratio is 1:3; for 2-year-olds, 1:5; for 3-5 year-olds, 1:10). **Maximum Capacity:** A licensed FCC home can care for no more than 10 children at any time, including the provider's own children under age 10. **Background Checks:** All adults over 18 in the home must pass central registry and criminal background checks. **Health and Safety:** Providers must have current CPR/First Aid certification, follow safe sleep practices for infants, and have an emergency plan. A licensed provider should be able to readily discuss these standards and show you their current DFS license.
Are there any seasonal or part-time childcare options in Story, considering its tourism and outdoor recreation focus?
Yes, Story's identity as a gateway to the Bighorn Mountains creates unique seasonal needs. During peak summer and winter tourism seasons, some providers may offer short-term or drop-in care for families visiting or working in the area, but this is not guaranteed and must be arranged well in advance. For local families, part-time care (2-3 days a week) is sometimes available, but full-time spots are prioritized. Your best bet is to network with other parents to arrange nanny-shares or cooperative babysitting circles, especially for irregular hours common in the hospitality or guiding industries. There are no formal, licensed preschool programs in Story itself, so childcare often doubles as early education.