The Best Preschools in Baker, MT
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Baker. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Baker Child Development Center
Independent
Baker Child Development Center is a highly-regarded local facility serving the Baker area with a focus on play-based learning and school readiness. It maintains a low student-to-teacher ratio, emphasizes safety with secure facilities, and offers a curriculum that includes literacy, math, and social skills development. Parent reviews frequently praise the dedicated staff and nurturing environment.
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Glendive Early Learning Center
Independent
Located approximately 60 miles from Baker, Glendive Early Learning Center is a top-rated facility known for its comprehensive early childhood programs and experienced educators. It features a structured curriculum aligned with state standards, focus on social-emotional development, and safe, engaging classrooms. The center has a strong reputation for parent communication and community involvement.
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Miles City Early Childhood Center
Independent
Serving the broader region including Baker, Miles City Early Childhood Center offers high-quality early learning with a focus on individualized instruction and holistic development. It boasts certified teachers, a safe and inclusive environment, and a curriculum that integrates STEM activities and creative arts. Parents consistently highlight its excellent safety records and positive impact on child development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Baker, MT:
What are the typical costs for preschool in Baker, MT, and are there any local assistance programs?
In Baker, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $150 to $300, though costs can vary based on program type and schedule. For financial assistance, families should inquire directly with providers about potential sliding scale fees and also contact the Fallon County Health Department, as they may have information on state-funded early childhood programs like STARS Preschool Scholarships, which are available to eligible Montana families.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Baker?
All licensed preschools in Montana, including those in Baker, are regulated by the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS). You can verify a program's license and review any compliance history by searching the provider's name on the DPHHS Early Childhood and Family Support Division website. Additionally, visiting the preschool in person and asking about staff qualifications and curriculum is highly recommended.
What types of preschool programs are available in Baker, given its rural setting?
Options in Baker typically include home-based family childcare programs, part-day programs often affiliated with local churches or community centers, and the public school district's preschool offerings. Due to the rural nature, schedules may be more limited than in urban areas, so it's important to contact providers early to understand their specific hours, age groups served, and whether they offer full or partial-week enrollment.
When is the best time to start the enrollment process for a Baker preschool?
Given the limited number of slots in a small community, it is advisable to begin researching and contacting preschools in Baker by early spring, or even winter, for enrollment the following fall. Many programs, especially the public school-based options, have specific registration periods in the spring, and waiting lists are common, so early inquiry is crucial.
What should I look for regarding safety and preparedness for Baker's weather and remote location?
Inquire about the preschool's emergency protocols for severe weather common to Eastern Montana, such as winter blizzards or summer storms, including communication plans and shelter-in-place procedures. Also, verify their transportation policies if offered, and ask about staff training in pediatric first aid and CPR, considering the distance to major medical facilities from Baker.
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across Montana or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.