Choosing the right daycare is one of the most important decisions parents make for their children’s early development. In Colorado Springs, families are fortunate to have a variety of top-rated daycare centers offering enriching educational experiences, nurturing environments, and flexible programs to suit diverse needs.
Whether you're searching for infant care, preschool programs, or before-and-after school care, this guide highlights the best daycares in Colorado Springs, ensuring you find the right fit for your family.
*Why Choosing the Right Daycare Matters
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A quality daycare is more than just a place for children to spend time during the day—it plays a critical role in their emotional, social, and cognitive development. Research shows that early learning environments shape a child's brain development, set the foundation for lifelong learning, and support working parents in balancing career and family.
When evaluating daycares in Colorado Springs, parents should consider factors such as:
Curriculum and educational philosophy
Staff qualifications and child-to-teacher ratios
Safety, cleanliness, and security
Flexibility of hours and financial options
Family involvement and communication practices
*Top-Rated Daycares in Colorado Springs
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- Early Connections Learning Centers Established in 1897, Early Connections Learning Centers is one of the most trusted and historic providers of early childhood education in Colorado Springs. This center is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), a distinction held by less than 10% of childcare providers nationwide. Go to childrenkare for more information.
Early Connections offers a robust, literacy-based curriculum and behavioral health support to help children grow intellectually and emotionally. The center is known for its inclusive and supportive environment that adapts to children of all learning styles and abilities.
Highlights:
Programs for infants to school-age children
Behavioral health services on-site
Open from 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Accepts CCCAP and uses a sliding income scale for tuition
This makes it a highly accessible option for families across income levels.
- Springs of Life Children’s Center Springs of Life Children’s Center offers a home-like setting where children are nurtured and educated in a family-friendly atmosphere. With two locations in Colorado Springs, this daycare provides services for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children.
Their before-and-after school care program includes transportation to over 30 schools, making it a convenient option for working parents. The center is also committed to inclusivity, partnering with the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program and tailoring tuition rates to meet families' financial needs.
Highlights:
Services for children from infancy through school-age
Transportation to local schools
Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Offers financial support and CCCAP partnership
Parents appreciate the personalized care and faith-based values promoted within the center.
- Little Sunshine’s Playhouse & Preschool Located in the Cheyenne Mountain area, Little Sunshine’s Playhouse & Preschool features a Reggio Emilia-inspired curriculum known as “Creatively Shine®.” This approach encourages hands-on exploration and creativity while fostering language, social-emotional, and physical development.
Parents benefit from daily communication through their app, LuvNotes®, which shares real-time updates and photos of their child’s activities. With chef-prepared meals, a double-secured entry system, and a beautifully designed classroom environment, this preschool offers a luxurious and enriching experience.
Highlights:
Creatively Shine® curriculum based on the Reggio Emilia approach
Real-time updates via LuvNotes®
Open year-round with consistent hours
Meals prepared by an in-house chef
Strong emphasis on health, safety, and creativity
This preschool is ideal for parents seeking a premium early education experience.
*Other Notable Daycares in Colorado Springs
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While the above three are standout examples, Colorado Springs is home to many other reputable daycares that cater to different needs and philosophies. Some notable mentions include:
The Learning Experience
Offers a well-rounded curriculum with STEM, art, and foreign language components, focusing on cognitive and emotional growth through structured learning.
KinderCare Learning Centers
Known for their standardized curriculum across locations, KinderCare provides a safe and consistent early learning environment for children of all ages.
Primrose Schools
These schools blend academics, character development, and play in a well-balanced manner. Their Balanced Learning® approach is a popular choice among local parents.
Each of these centers emphasizes child development and school readiness, making them worthy of consideration.
*How to Choose the Best Daycare in Colorado Springs
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When selecting a daycare, consider these tips to guide your decision-making process:
Schedule a Tour
Visiting the facility allows you to observe the environment, meet the staff, and ask specific questions about their curriculum, safety procedures, and daily routine.Check Reviews and Accreditations
Look for NAEYC accreditation or other quality certifications. Read online reviews to get insights from other parents about their experiences.Ask About Communication
Transparent, regular communication with parents is essential. Ask how they keep you informed about your child’s progress.Understand the Curriculum
Determine whether the curriculum aligns with your child’s learning style and your family’s values—whether it's play-based, academically driven, or Montessori-inspired.Consider Practical Logistics
Location, operating hours, tuition costs, and availability of financial aid (like CCCAP) can all influence your final decision.
Financial Assistance and Child Care Resources in Colorado Springs
For many families, affordability is a major factor when selecting daycare. Colorado Springs families can access several resources to help cover childcare costs:
Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP): Offers financial support to qualifying families.
Sliding Fee Scales: Many centers adjust tuition based on income.
Military Subsidies: Given the presence of several military bases in Colorado Springs, some providers offer discounts or subsidies for military families.
Be sure to inquire about these options during your daycare search.
*Final Thoughts
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Finding the right daycare in Colorado Springs doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you're looking for a curriculum-based preschool, nurturing infant care, or reliable before-and-after school programs, there’s something for every family in this growing and vibrant city.
Prioritize your child’s unique needs, your family’s values, and your budget. With many top-rated centers offering quality care and flexible programs, Colorado Springs continues to be an excellent place for families seeking trusted early childhood education.