Children at daycare

98 Daycare Centers in Boulder, Colorado

Browse all 98 daycare centers in Boulder, Colorado. Compare options and find the right childcare for your family.

Top 10 Best Rated Daycares in Boulder

Ranked using a weighted score that combines Google rating with the number of parent reviews — daycares with more reviews rank higher than those with a high rating but few reviews. Last updated: March 2026.

  1. 1

    3340 19th St, Boulder, CO · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 58 children

    Parents consistently praise Alaya Preschool as a warm, nurturing community where children develop confidence, social skills, and emotional well-being. The school is highlighted for its extensive outdoor play areas, play-based learning approach, and exceptionally caring teachers who form genuine relationships with children and families.

    Warm and nurturing environmentexceptional teachersoutdoor play timeplay-based curriculum
  2. 2
    Meadowlark Preschool
    4.79 score
    5(19)

    2650 Table Mesa Dr, Boulder, CO · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 30 children

    Meadowlark Preschool receives universal 5-star ratings from parents who praise the warm, nurturing environment and deeply caring, stable staff. Parents consistently highlight their children's enthusiasm for attending, strong academic preparation (particularly literacy), and the positive social-emotional development fostered by the multi-age classroom setting.

    Caring and experienced teaching staff with low turnoverwarm and welcoming atmospherechildren excited to attendstrong early literacy emphasis
  3. 3

    4215 Grinnell Ave, Boulder, CO · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 22 children

    Sunrise Early Learning Center receives perfect 5/5 ratings from all parents. They consistently praise the caring, experienced staff (particularly Melissa, Nick, and Julie) for creating a nurturing, play-based learning environment where children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Parents highlight the strong sense of community, thoughtful curriculum with monthly themes, and excellent communication.

    Experienced and caring staffplay-based learning approachsocial-emotional skill developmentengaging monthly curriculum themes
  4. 4
    Snow Lion School INC
    4.77 score
    5(17)

    2580 Iris Ave, Boulder, CO · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 49 children

    Snow Lion School is a highly regarded contemplative preschool in Boulder with a 5/5 rating across all reviews. Parents consistently praise the warm, compassionate staff, nurturing environment, and child-centered approach that fosters confidence, creativity, and character development. The school emphasizes outdoor play, community building, and respect for individual learning styles.

    Warm and attentive staffstrong understanding of child developmentnurturing environmentbuilds community among families
  5. 5

    1825 Upland Ave, Boulder, CO · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 20 children

    Parents consistently praise New Horizons as an exceptional, community-focused cooperative preschool that emphasizes play-based learning, diversity, and social-emotional development. The school is noted for its affordable pricing, dedicated teachers, outdoor activities, and inclusive environment that serves families from various backgrounds. Multiple long-term parents report lasting friendships and believe the school provides an ideal foundation for their children's growth.

    Community-oriented cooperative modelplay-based learning approachdiversity and multiculturalismaffordable pricing
  6. 6

    2700 29th St, Boulder, CO · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 52 children

    Boulder Bilingual Childcare is a family-run center in Boulder that receives universal praise from parents for its warm, nurturing environment and bilingual Spanish-English education. Parents consistently highlight the owner's commitment to homemade, nutritious meals, the genuine care and affection staff show to all children, and the strong sense of community. Children are reported to thrive academically and emotionally, with notable gains in Spanish language skills and school readiness.

    Warm and caring staff who treat children like family membersbilingual Spanish-English educationhomemade nutritious meals prepared fresh dailywell-maintained facility with outdoor playgrounds
  7. 7

    3370 Iris Walk Ct, Boulder, CO · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 25 children

    Children's House Preschool in Boulder receives unanimous 5-star reviews from parents who praise the highly trained teachers, engaging curriculum centered on storytelling and themes, and inclusive approach to diversity and accessibility. Parents report their children have thrived emotionally and developmentally, with strong communication through StoryPark and a warm, nurturing environment.

    Highly trained teachers with early childhood education degreescaring and dedicated staffengaging monthly storybook curriculum with themesexcellent teacher-student ratio
  8. 8
    Patience Montessori
    4.58 score
    4.9(9)

    3600 Hazelwood Ct, Boulder, CO · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 64 children

    Patience Montessori in Boulder receives consistently high praise from parents, with all reviews rating it 4-5 stars. Parents highlight the kind and caring staff, Montessori approach, strong child development outcomes, and supportive community environment.

    Excellent and kind teacherssafe locationlarge on-site playgroundsmall class sizes
  9. 9
    Dream Makers
    4.55 score
    5(6)

    1345 28th St, Boulder, CO · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 15 children

    Dream Makers is a highly-regarded preschool in Boulder where parents report exceptional teacher care and attention to individual child development. Multiple parents note their children thrived academically and socially, with strong language and developmental gains. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, creative activities, and the lasting positive impact on their children's love of learning.

    Caring and skilled teachersindividualized attention to each childcreative and well-planned activitiesbalance of structured and unstructured play
  10. 10

    776 Cherryvale Rd, Boulder, CO · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 17 children

    Parents consistently praise Our School Preschool for its play-based curriculum, experienced teachers (Megan and Jim), and focus on child development. The cooperative structure allows parent involvement and community building. Children are reported to thrive emotionally, socially, and academically in this creative, well-resourced environment.

    Experienced and knowledgeable teachersplay-based learningfree play opportunitiesnatural materials and creative supplies

Top Rated

Highest rated daycares in Boulder based on parent reviews

Alaya Preschool Kindergarten

5(20)

3340 19th St, Boulder, CO

Parents consistently praise Alaya Preschool as a warm, nurturing community where children develop confidence, social skills, and emotional well-being. The school is highlighted for its extensive outdoor play areas, play-based learning approach, and exceptionally caring teachers who form genuine relationships with children and families.

Warm and nurturing environmentexceptional teachersoutdoor play time

Meadowlark Preschool

5(19)

2650 Table Mesa Dr, Boulder, CO

Meadowlark Preschool receives universal 5-star ratings from parents who praise the warm, nurturing environment and deeply caring, stable staff. Parents consistently highlight their children's enthusiasm for attending, strong academic preparation (particularly literacy), and the positive social-emotional development fostered by the multi-age classroom setting.

Caring and experienced teaching staff with low turnoverwarm and welcoming atmospherechildren excited to attend

Sunrise Early Learning Center

5(18)

4215 Grinnell Ave, Boulder, CO

Sunrise Early Learning Center receives perfect 5/5 ratings from all parents. They consistently praise the caring, experienced staff (particularly Melissa, Nick, and Julie) for creating a nurturing, play-based learning environment where children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Parents highlight the strong sense of community, thoughtful curriculum with monthly themes, and excellent communication.

Experienced and caring staffplay-based learning approachsocial-emotional skill development

Snow Lion School INC

5(17)

2580 Iris Ave, Boulder, CO

Snow Lion School is a highly regarded contemplative preschool in Boulder with a 5/5 rating across all reviews. Parents consistently praise the warm, compassionate staff, nurturing environment, and child-centered approach that fosters confidence, creativity, and character development. The school emphasizes outdoor play, community building, and respect for individual learning styles.

Warm and attentive staffstrong understanding of child developmentnurturing environment

New Horizons Cooperative Preschool

5(17)

1825 Upland Ave, Boulder, CO

Parents consistently praise New Horizons as an exceptional, community-focused cooperative preschool that emphasizes play-based learning, diversity, and social-emotional development. The school is noted for its affordable pricing, dedicated teachers, outdoor activities, and inclusive environment that serves families from various backgrounds. Multiple long-term parents report lasting friendships and believe the school provides an ideal foundation for their children's growth.

Community-oriented cooperative modelplay-based learning approachdiversity and multiculturalism

Boulder Bilingual Childcare INC.

5(15)

2700 29th St, Boulder, CO

Boulder Bilingual Childcare is a family-run center in Boulder that receives universal praise from parents for its warm, nurturing environment and bilingual Spanish-English education. Parents consistently highlight the owner's commitment to homemade, nutritious meals, the genuine care and affection staff show to all children, and the strong sense of community. Children are reported to thrive academically and emotionally, with notable gains in Spanish language skills and school readiness.

Warm and caring staff who treat children like family membersbilingual Spanish-English educationhomemade nutritious meals prepared fresh daily

Map

Daycare Centers in Boulder, Colorado

There are 98 daycare centers in Boulder, Colorado. Below you'll find a complete directory to help you compare and choose the right daycare for your child.

When choosing a daycare in Boulder, consider visiting facilities in person, checking their licensing status, and asking about staff-to-child ratios, daily routines, and safety policies.

All Daycare Centers in Boulder

Showing 98 results

Rocky Mountain Day Camp
Before or After School Daycare
4.3

Rocky Mountain Day Camp receives overwhelmingly positive reviews praising staff enthusiasm, positive culture, and program quality, though two negative reviews cite serious concerns about supervision, staff engagement, and child safety. Most parents report their children are excited to attend and appreciate the counselors' dedication and the variety of activities offered.

Enthusiastic and caring staffpositive camp culturevariety of activities and games
Address
7750 Concord Drive, Boulder, CO
Phone
(720) 561-5979
First Presbyterian Preschool Of Boulder
Before or After School Daycare
4.3

Note: The reviews provided are for First Presbyterian Church of Boulder, not its preschool program. Reviews praise the church's welcoming atmosphere, strong youth and children's programs, inclusive community, and dedicated leadership across multiple generations.

welcoming and inclusive communitystrong children's and youth programsdedicated staff and volunteers
Address
1820 15th St, Boulder, CO
Phone
(303) 402-6386
Child Learning Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.2

Child Learning Center receives mostly positive reviews praising staff warmth, caring educators, low teacher-to-child ratios, and intentional developmental support. However, one parent reported feeling their child with special needs was not genuinely welcomed, citing concerns about inclusion practices, director communication, and enrollment handling.

Kind and warm staffknowledgeable and passionate teachersintentional individual support for each child's development
Address
2501 Kittredge Loop, Boulder, CO
Phone
(303) 492-3039
Homestar Child Development Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.2
Address
3280 Dartmouth Ave, Boulder, CO
Phone
(303) 499-9818
Family Learning Center INC
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.2

Family Learning Center Inc receives mostly positive reviews, with parents praising the atmosphere, teachers, and variety of programs available. However, some concerns have been raised about student behavior and discipline issues.

Welcoming atmospherequality teachersdiverse programs for multiple ages
Address
3164 34th St, Boulder, CO
Phone
(303) 442-2898
Quality
Ywca Of Boulder County Children'S Alley
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.2

Parents consistently praise Persimmon Early Learning (formerly Children's Alley) for its caring, invested staff and nurturing environment. Children are reported to be happy and well-adjusted, with parents appreciating the facility's flexibility, healthy meals, diverse activities, and mission-driven approach to early childhood education.

Caring and kind staffclean facilitiesgood teacher-to-child ratios
Address
2222 14th St, Boulder, CO
Phone
(303) 449-9195
Quality
Ymca Of Bldr Valley @ University Hills
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.2

This YMCA location receives consistently high praise from members for its friendly and helpful staff, clean facilities, and diverse programs including fitness classes, Adventure Zone, swim lessons, and summer camps. Parents report their children are happy and safe in the childcare and activity programs offered.

Friendly and respectful staffclean facilities with new equipmentdiverse classes and programs for all ages
Address
956 16th St, Boulder, CO
Phone
NOT AVAILABLE
City Of Boulder Parks And Recs @ Reservoir
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.1

These reviews are not about the daycare center itself, but rather about Boulder Reservoir park where the daycare may be located or hold activities. Visitors consistently praise the reservoir as a beautiful summer destination with clean water, ample recreational facilities, and scenic mountain views. The facility is well-maintained though it does charge an entrance fee.

Clean waterbeautiful viewsspacious picnic areas
Address
5565 N 51st St, Boulder, CO
Phone
(303) 413-7477
Ymca Bv Mapleton Branch
Before or After School Daycare
4.1

Reviews praise the YMCA Mapleton Branch as a clean, well-maintained facility with excellent amenities including a heated pool, weight room, and diverse fitness classes. The staff and instructors are consistently noted as friendly and welcoming, and the facility offers good value with convenient drop-in day passes and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Clean facilityheated poolvariety of fitness classes
Address
2850 Mapleton Ave, Boulder, CO
Phone
(303) 664-5455
Quality
City Of Boulder Parks And Recs East
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.1

Reviews are mixed with significant quality concerns. While some parents praise friendly staff and clean facilities, others report poor programming quality, maintenance issues, and difficulty reaching the center by phone.

Friendly and courteous staffclean facilitiespleasant customer service
Address
5660 Sioux Dr, Boulder, CO
Phone
(303) 441-4400
City Of Boulder Parks And Recs South
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.1

Reviews are mixed with significant quality inconsistencies. While some parents praise friendly staff and clean facilities, others report poor programming quality, maintenance issues, and difficulty reaching the center by phone.

Friendly and courteous staffclean facilitiesresponsive customer service
Address
1360 Gillaspie, Boulder, CO
Phone
(303) 413-7441
City Of Boulder Parks And Recs North
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.1

Reviews are mixed with significant inconsistencies, suggesting they may not all pertain to the daycare facility itself. Positive reviews praise friendly staff and cleanliness, while negative reviews cite poor programming quality, difficulty reaching staff by phone, and maintenance issues with grounds and parking areas.

Friendly and courteous staffclean facilitiespleasant customer service
Address
3170 Broadway, Boulder, CO
Phone
(303) 413-7441
Iris Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.1

The reviews for IRIS CENTER are mixed and appear to contain significant irrelevant content. Several reviews reference golf courses, libraries, and recreation facilities rather than daycare services. Relevant feedback indicates concerns about facility maintenance, programming quality, and phone accessibility.

Friendly staffclean facilities
Address
3198 Broadway, Boulder, CO
Phone
(303) 413-7200
Miss Catherines Creative Learning Ctr
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.1

Miss Catherine's Creative Learning Center receives consistently high praise from parents, with all reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents highlight the caring and accommodating staff, safe and nurturing environment, strong communication, and locally-owned operation. The center is noted for going above and beyond to meet individual children's needs, including special medical requirements.

caring and accommodating staffsafe and cozy environmentexcellent communication with parents
Address
6525 Gunpark Dr 340, Boulder, CO
Phone
(303) 530-0182
Boulder Day Nursery
Child Daycare & Preschools
4
Address
1518 Spruce St, Boulder, CO
Phone
(303) 442-2761
Quality
Sunshine House Montessori School INC.
Child Daycare & Preschools
4

Sunshine House Montessori School receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from most parents, who praise the caring staff, Montessori approach, and nurturing environment where children thrive academically and emotionally. However, two negative reviews cite concerns about contract inflexibility and questions about whether the school truly implements Montessori principles.

Experienced and caring teacherspersonalized attentionMontessori method with flexibility
Address
745 College Ave, Boulder, CO
Phone
(303) 447-7011
Quality
The Cottage School
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.9

The Cottage School receives mostly positive reviews praising caring staff, outdoor time, and personalized attention from owners. However, some parents report significant issues with administrative organization, communication failures, and unresolved refund disputes.

caring and attentive staffowner involvementoutdoor time for children
Address
805/797 30th St, Boulder, CO
Phone
(303) 449-9438
The Cottage School North
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.9

The Cottage School North receives mostly positive reviews praising the caring staff, personal connections with owners, outdoor time, and child happiness. However, two negative reviews cite serious issues with owner communication, disorganization, unresolved refunds, and poor waitlist management.

caring and attentive staffstrong personal connections with ownersgood operating hours
Address
1301 North St, Boulder, CO
Phone
(303) 546-6681
Quality
Univ Co Fmly Hsng Childrens Ctr
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.6

CU Children's Center receives mixed reviews ranging from 1-5 stars. Positive reviews praise the new leadership, Colorado Shines 4 rating, experienced teachers, thoughtful transitions, and university affiliation. Negative reviews report concerning incidents including inappropriate teacher behavior (pinching), overly strict illness policies, and inadequate care and responsiveness.

New director Emily providing strong leadershipColorado Shines 4 ratingexperienced tea
Address
2202 Arapahoe, Boulder, CO
Phone
(303) 492-2619
Quality
Mapleton Early Childcare Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.5
Address
840 Mapleton Ave, Boulder, CO
Phone
(720) 561-5077
Quality
Boulder Valley Sch Dist Teen Parent
Before or After School Daycare
3

Boulder Valley School District receives mostly positive reviews praising the quality of educators, administrators, and community support. However, some parents report serious concerns including inadequate teaching quality at specific schools, staff behavior issues, and neighborhood disruption from high school activities.

Amazing teachers and staffstrong community supportconvenient locations across Boulder
Address
6600 Arapahoe Rd, Boulder, CO
Phone
(303) 447-7535
Ymca Of Bldr Valley @ Flatirons Elementary
Before or After School Daycare
Address
1150 7th St, Boulder, CO
Phone
NOT AVAILABLE
Boulder Montessori School
Child Daycare & Preschools
Address
3300 Redstone Rd, Boulder, CO
Phone
(303) 494-4581
Quality
Countryside Montessori Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
Address
5524 Baseline Rd, Boulder, CO
Phone
(303) 494-4310
Quality
Bvsd Preschool At University Hill
Child Daycare & Preschools
Address
956 16th St, Boulder, CO
Phone
(720) 561-1627
Quality
Friends' School
Child Daycare & Preschools
Address
5441 Pennsylvania Ave, Boulder, CO
Phone
(303) 499-9200
Quality
Tiny Minders Daycare & Preschool North
Child Daycare & Preschools

Tiny Minders Daycare & Preschool North has highly polarized reviews. Most parents (7 five-star reviews) praise the caring, knowledgeable staff, clean facility, reasonable pricing, and child development outcomes. However, two one-star reviews cite serious safety concerns including inadequate supervision, improper infant handling, and neglect of basic care.

Caring and attentive staffknowledgeable about early childhood developmentclean facility
Address
3735 Iris Ave, Boulder, CO
Phone
(303) 449-9190
Quality
Kindercare Learning Center @ Ucar
Child Daycare & Preschools

Parents consistently praise KinderCare Learning Center @ UCAR in Boulder for its warm, nurturing environment and exceptional leadership under Director Stephanie. Staff members are described as loving and attentive, with strong communication and transparent practices. Children are reported to be happy, safe, and engaged in a well-organized facility that balances corporate structure with a homey feel.

Warm and nurturing environmentexceptional leadership and director
Address
3050 34th St, Boulder, CO
Phone
(303) 443-5595
Quality
Boulder County Head Start
Headstart Programs
Address
2845 Wilderness Pl, Boulder, CO
Phone
(720) 564-2203
Quality
Bvsd Heatherwood Preschool
Before or After School Daycare
Address
7750 Concord Dr, Rm 121, Boulder, CO
Phone
(720) 561-6269
Quality

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Frequently asked questions

There are 98 all daycares in Boulder, Colorado. Browse our directory to compare options and find the right fit for your child.
When choosing a daycare in Boulder, consider visiting facilities in person and checking:
  • Licensing status with Colorado's regulatory agency
  • Staff-to-child ratios (requirements vary by age group in Colorado)
  • Safety measures and cleanliness
  • Daily routines and educational curriculum
  • Parent reviews and ratings
  • Location and hours that fit your schedule
Boulder offers several types of childcare facilities:
  • Child Daycare & Preschools — 58 facilities
  • Headstart Programs — 2 facilities
  • Church Daycare — 4 facilities
  • Before or After School Daycare — 34 facilities
Each type serves different needs — center-based facilities typically offer structured programs, while head start programs are federally funded for low-income families.
Daycare costs in Colorado typically range from $200 to $400 per week for full-time care, depending on the child's age, facility type, and location within the state. Infant care tends to be more expensive due to lower staff-to-child ratio requirements. Contact individual facilities in Boulder for current pricing.
Yes, daycare centers in Boulder must be licensed by Colorado's childcare licensing agency. Licensed facilities are required to meet standards for safety, health, staff qualifications, and staff-to-child ratios. You can verify a facility's license status through your state's licensing database.