The Best Daycare Centers in Upton, WY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Upton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Upton
Little Scholars Learning Center
Independent
Little Scholars Learning Center is a highly-regarded childcare facility serving the Upton area from nearby Newcastle. They offer a comprehensive educational curriculum focused on early childhood development through structured learning and play-based activities. The center features state-licensed teachers with early childhood education credentials, low student-to-teacher ratios, and secure facility access with surveillance systems. Their program includes age-appropriate learning stations, outdoor play areas, and nutritional meal programs. What makes them stand out is their strong emphasis on school readiness with structured literacy and math programs, regular developmental assessments, and excellent parent communication through daily reports and digital updates.
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Kid's World Daycare & Preschool
Independent
Kid's World Daycare & Preschool serves families throughout the region including Upton residents. They provide a nurturing environment with a balanced curriculum that combines academic preparation and social-emotional development. The facility features secure access controls, modern learning materials, and age-separated classrooms. Their staff includes certified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development. The center stands out for its comprehensive safety protocols including emergency preparedness training, health screening procedures, and USDA-approved nutritional programs. They offer flexible scheduling and maintain strong parent partnerships through regular conferences and communication portals.
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Small World Early Learning Center
Independent
Small World Early Learning Center is a well-established facility serving the broader region including Upton families. They implement a research-based curriculum that emphasizes cognitive, physical, and social development through hands-on learning experiences. The center features certified teachers with specialized training in early childhood education, modern security systems, and developmentally appropriate learning environments. Their program includes structured literacy activities, STEM exploration, creative arts, and physical education. What distinguishes them is their commitment to individualized learning plans, regular progress monitoring, and strong community partnerships that enhance educational opportunities for children.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Upton, WY
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Upton, Wyoming, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Upton, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the State of Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS). Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and staff training. For family home daycares (caring for up to 8 children) and childcare centers, licensing includes background checks, home/facility inspections, and required training in CPR and First Aid. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the Wyoming DFS Child Care Finder online tool or contact the DFS Northern Regional Office in Sheridan, which oversees Upton. It's crucial to confirm licensing, as unregulated care is a risk.
Given Upton's small-town setting, what is the typical availability and waitlist situation for daycare, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to Upton's limited population and number of providers, daycare spots, especially for infants and toddlers, can be very scarce. It is common for the few licensed home daycares and the local center to have waitlists, sometimes several months long. Parents are strongly advised to begin their search during pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before their needed start date. Networking with other local parents through community groups or social media can provide leads on potential openings. Be prepared to consider providers in nearby towns like Sundance or Moorcroft as a backup plan.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Upton, and are there any local or state financial assistance programs available?
In Upton, full-time daycare costs are generally lower than national averages but can vary. For a childcare center, you might expect $120-$180 per week per child. Licensed family home daycares often range from $100-$150 per week. The State of Wyoming offers financial assistance through the DFS Child Care Subsidy Program for qualifying families based on income, work/school requirements, and family size. You can apply through the DFS website or local office. Additionally, the federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit can provide relief at tax time.
Are there any unique childcare options in Upton that cater to families with non-traditional or shift work schedules, common in energy or ranching industries?
Traditional weekday, daytime hours are the standard for most Upton providers. Options for evenings, overnight, or weekend care are extremely limited. Some licensed family home providers may offer flexible or part-time arrangements by individual agreement, so it's important to ask directly. For parents working in the local energy sector or agriculture with irregular shifts, the most common solution is a private nanny share arrangement with another family or relying on family/kinship care. Planning and building a network of trusted backup caregivers is essential in this rural community.
What should I look for during an in-person visit to a potential daycare in Upton, and are there local resources to help with the evaluation?
During a visit, observe the cleanliness and safety of the environment (secured outlets, safe toys, fenced outdoor area), the interaction between staff and children, and the overall atmosphere. Ask about daily routines, meal provisions, discipline policies, and emergency plans for things like wildfires or severe winter weather. In Upton, also inquire about their policy on school closures (for older siblings) and drop-in care. While there is no local formal referral agency, you can contact the Weston County Public Health Nurse or consult the Wyoming Early Childhood Professional Development (WYECPD) website for a checklist of quality indicators to guide your evaluation.