The Best Preschools in Parachute, CO
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Parachute. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Imagination Station Child Development Center
Independent
Imagination Station is a highly-rated local preschool and childcare center serving the Parachute community with comprehensive early childhood education programs. They offer age-appropriate curriculum focusing on social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. The center maintains small class sizes with qualified teachers and emphasizes a safe, nurturing environment. Their program includes structured learning activities, play-based education, and developmentally appropriate practices for children from infancy through preschool age.
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Little Bears Preschool & Childcare
Independent
Located in nearby Rifle (approximately 15 miles from Parachute), Little Bears Preschool serves families throughout Garfield County with high-quality early childhood education. They employ certified early childhood educators and maintain low student-to-teacher ratios. The program emphasizes literacy development, social skills, and kindergarten readiness through a balanced curriculum of structured learning and creative play. The facility is licensed by the State of Colorado and maintains excellent safety records with secure access and comprehensive health protocols.
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The River Center at Colorado Mountain College
Colorado Mountain College
The River Center at Colorado Mountain College in Rifle provides high-quality early childhood education services to families throughout the region, including Parachute residents. As part of an accredited educational institution, they offer research-based curriculum delivered by qualified early childhood professionals. The center focuses on holistic child development with emphasis on cognitive, social-emotional, and physical growth. They maintain excellent teacher qualifications with many staff holding advanced degrees in early childhood education and maintain comprehensive safety protocols in a modern, purpose-built facility.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Parachute, CO:
What types of preschool programs are available in Parachute, CO, given its small-town setting?
In Parachute, options typically include home-based preschools, faith-based programs, and potentially a public preschool program through the Garfield Re-2 School District. Due to the rural nature, many families also consider family childcare homes or cooperative models. It's important to start your search early, as choices may be more limited than in larger cities.
How much does preschool typically cost in Parachute, and are there financial assistance programs?
Costs can vary, but home-based and private programs may range from $150 to $300+ per month. Colorado's Universal Preschool (UPK) program provides 15 hours per week of free preschool to all 4-year-olds and some 3-year-olds, which you can apply for through the Garfield County portal. Additional assistance may be available through the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP) for qualifying families.
What should I look for regarding safety and licensing for a preschool in Parachute?
Always verify that the program is licensed by the Colorado Office of Early Childhood. You can check a provider's license and any history of violations online. Given Parachute's location, also inquire about emergency preparedness plans for weather and their policies for safe outdoor play in the varied mountain climate.
Are there preschools in Parachute that offer flexible schedules for working parents?
Full-day, year-round care is more commonly found in licensed home-based programs or family childcare homes in the area. Some part-time preschools may offer limited extended care. For more consistent full-day options, parents often look at providers in nearby towns like Rifle or Silt and should factor in commute time along Highway I-70.
How can I assess the quality of a preschool program in a small community like Parachute?
Beyond checking the state's quality rating (Colorado Shines), schedule an in-person visit to observe the environment and teacher-child interactions. Talk to other local parents for personal recommendations, as word-of-mouth is invaluable in a close-knit community. Ask about the curriculum's approach to incorporating the local natural environment, which is a significant asset in the Colorado River Valley.
Nearby Cities
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