The Best Preschools in Hays, MT
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Hays. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Havre Early Childhood Center
Community Action Program of North Central Montana
The Havre Early Childhood Center is a highly-regarded Head Start program that has served Blaine County and surrounding areas for over two decades. It focuses on school readiness for children from low-income families, offering a comprehensive curriculum that includes literacy, math, and social-emotional development. The center maintains strong safety records, employs qualified early childhood educators, and emphasizes parent involvement through regular workshops and home visits. With a 4.2 rating from 45 reviews, it is praised for its nurturing environment and effective preparation for kindergarten.
Programs Offered:
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center is a top-rated private preschool in Havre, known for its play-based and structured curriculum that fosters early literacy, STEM skills, and creativity. With a 4.5 rating from 78 reviews, it emphasizes small class sizes, certified teachers, and a safe, inclusive environment. The center has over a decade of experience and is commended for its high parent satisfaction, engaging activities, and flexibility with childcare needs, making it a popular choice for families in the Hays area.
Programs Offered:
St. Jude Thaddeus School Preschool
St. Jude Thaddeus Parish
St. Jude Thaddeus School Preschool offers a faith-based early learning program that integrates academic readiness with moral development. With a 4.4 rating from 35 reviews, it has served the Havre community and nearby areas like Hays for 20 years, featuring a curriculum strong in literacy, math, and social skills. The preschool is noted for its experienced teachers, safe campus, and high parent satisfaction due to its supportive environment and focus on holistic child development. It provides extended care options to accommodate family schedules.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Hays, MT:
What are the typical costs for preschool programs in Hays, MT, and are there any financial assistance options?
In Hays, preschool costs can vary, but many local and home-based programs are often more affordable than in larger Montana cities, typically ranging from $100 to $250 per month for part-time schedules. Financial assistance may be available through state programs like Best Beginnings STARS to Quality scholarships or the federal Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which are administered through the Fort Belknap Indian Community's Family Services or the Blaine County Health Department. It's best to inquire directly with individual providers about their specific rates and any sliding scale fees they may offer.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Hays, MT?
All licensed childcare and preschool programs in Montana, including those in Hays, are regulated by the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS). You can verify a provider's license, view inspection reports, and check their quality rating through the state's online "Provider Search" tool on the DPHHS website. Additionally, many quality programs in the area participate in the voluntary Best Beginnings STARS to Quality rating system, which is a reliable indicator of a program's commitment to early learning standards.
What types of preschool programs are available in Hays, given its rural location?
Given Hays's rural setting within the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation, options often include home-based family childcare programs, which may offer flexible hours and mixed-age groups. There may also be part-day programs operated through community centers or the local school district. For a wider selection, some families in Hays consider programs in nearby towns like Harlem or Chinook, so it's important to factor transportation into your planning when exploring all available early education options in the region.
Are there preschools in Hays that incorporate Native American culture and language?
Yes, given Hays's location within the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation, several early childhood initiatives actively incorporate Gros Ventre and Assiniboine (Nakoda) cultures. The Fort Belknap Early Head Start and Head Start programs are key providers that integrate cultural teachings, language, and traditions into their curriculum. Contacting the Fort Belknap Indian Community Council or the Language and Culture Department is an excellent way to find programs dedicated to culturally relevant early education.
When should I start looking and applying for preschool in Hays, and what is the typical enrollment process?
Due to limited slots in a small community, it's advisable to start researching and contacting preschool providers in Hays at least 6-12 months before your desired start date, especially for programs beginning in the fall. The enrollment process typically involves visiting the provider, completing an application, and providing current immunization records. For programs like Head Start, there are specific income eligibility guidelines and an application process managed through their local office, so early inquiry is crucial.
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across Montana or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.