The Best Daycare Centers in Adams, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Adams. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Adams
Primrose School of Austin
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Austin offers a nationally accredited Balanced Learning® curriculum that combines teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. Their approach focuses on whole-child development through character development, literacy, math, science, and social studies. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and certified teachers with ongoing professional development. They provide nutritious meals and snacks through their exclusive Harmony & Heart® menu. The school maintains low student-teacher ratios and uses the Primrose Schools exclusive assessment system to track developmental milestones.
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New Horizons Crisis Nursery & Child Care Center
New Horizons
New Horizons provides comprehensive childcare services with a focus on trauma-informed care and inclusive education. Their curriculum emphasizes social-emotional development alongside academic readiness. The center features secure facilities with controlled access, trained early childhood educators, and specialized programs for children with diverse needs. They offer 24-hour crisis nursery services and maintain strong community partnerships. The staff includes licensed teachers and specialists who provide individualized learning plans and family support services.
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St. Edwards Nursery School & Child Care
St. Edwards Catholic Church
St. Edwards Nursery School provides faith-based early childhood education integrated with developmentally appropriate practices. Their curriculum combines Catholic values with Creative Curriculum® standards, focusing on literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills. The center features secure facilities with monitored access, age-specific classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Staff members are CPR/first-aid certified and participate in ongoing early childhood education training. The program emphasizes character development, community involvement, and preparing children for kindergarten transition through structured learning activities and play-based exploration.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Adams, MN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Adams, MN, and how can I verify a provider's license?
In Adams, Minnesota, all childcare providers caring for unrelated children must be licensed by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS), unless they are legally exempt (like caring for only children from one other family). Licensed providers must meet strict standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, training (including CPR and first aid), and background checks. To verify a provider's license and view their compliance history, you can use the DHS online "License Lookup" tool. You can also contact the Mower County Human Services office, which oversees Adams, for additional information. Always ask to see a provider's current license during your visit.
What is the typical cost range for full-time daycare in Adams, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Adams and the surrounding Mower County area, full-time daycare costs can vary based on the child's age and the type of care. For an infant, you might expect to pay between $175 to $225 per week. For toddlers and preschoolers, costs are often slightly lower, ranging from $150 to $200 per week. In-home daycare may be at the lower end of this range, while center-based care might be higher. For financial assistance, Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is available for eligible families. You can apply through Mower County Human Services. Additionally, local organizations like the United Way of Mower County may have resources or connections to sliding-scale options.
How long are daycare waitlists typically in Adams, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the limited number of licensed providers in a smaller community like Adams, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care. It's not unusual for popular providers or centers to have waitlists of 3 to 9 months, or even longer. We strongly recommend starting your search as early as possible—ideally 6 to 12 months before you need care, and immediately upon learning of a pregnancy if seeking infant care. Be proactive: contact multiple providers, get on multiple lists, and check in periodically. Don't hesitate to look at options in nearby towns like Austin or Rose Creek if necessary.
What types of childcare settings are most commonly available in Adams, MN?
Adams primarily offers two types of licensed childcare settings. The most common are Licensed Family Childcare homes, where a provider cares for a smaller group of children (up to 10) in their own residence. These often offer a home-like environment and may have more flexible hours. The other option is Childcare Centers, though these are less prevalent in Adams itself; parents may need to look in nearby Austin (about 12 miles away) for larger centers with more structured preschool curricula. There are also a limited number of legally unlicensed "family, friend, and neighbor" caregivers, which is an option but does not come with state oversight.
Are there any unique local resources or networks in Adams to help parents find and evaluate childcare?
Yes, a key local resource is **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) for Southern Minnesota**, which serves Mower County. They maintain a current database of licensed providers in and around Adams, offer referrals, and can help you understand your options and what to look for. You can contact them online or by phone. Additionally, connecting with other parents through local Facebook community groups (e.g., "Adams, MN Community Page") or at places like the Adams Public School can provide invaluable word-of-mouth recommendations and insights into provider reputations and openings that may not be widely advertised.
Childcare Insights for Adams
Finding reliable and nurturing childcare is one of the most important decisions a family can make. If you’re a parent in Adams, Minnesota, typing “childcare near me” into a search bar, you’re likely seeking a safe, engaging, and convenient place for your child to learn and grow. The good news is that our small, close-knit community offers a unique advantage in this search. Childcare in Adams often comes with the benefit of providers who are not just professionals, but also neighbors who are deeply invested in the well-being of our town’s children.
When beginning your search locally, it’s valuable to tap into the community networks that define Adams. Beyond an online search, consider asking for recommendations at the Adams Public Library, chatting with other parents at the Adams Municipal Swimming Pool during the summer, or connecting with families at local churches. Many of the best childcare providers in smaller towns like ours operate through word-of-mouth or may be licensed in-home providers who create a family-like atmosphere. The Minnesota Department of Human Services website is an essential resource for verifying the license status and any history of violations for any provider you consider, ensuring they meet state health, safety, and educational standards.
Specific considerations for Adams parents often include the balance between agricultural and town life, and the rhythms that come with it. Some providers may have deep understanding of families involved in farming, offering flexible hours during critical planting or harvest seasons. Proximity is also a key factor; a shorter commute within town means less time on the road and more stability in your child’s daily routine. When visiting potential daycare homes or centers, ask about their daily schedule, how they incorporate play and learning, and their policy on outdoor time, making the most of our Minnesota seasons. Inquire about their plans for school-age children on days when the Southland school district has early dismissal or days off, as this is a common need for working parents.
Finally, trust your instincts during visits. Notice if the children seem happy and engaged, and if the environment is clean, safe, and stimulating. A good provider in Adams will be happy to discuss their philosophy, provide references from other local families, and communicate openly about your child’s day. Remember that finding the right fit may take a little time, but the peace of mind that comes from knowing your child is in caring, capable hands is invaluable. By leveraging both local connections and state resources, you can find a childcare solution in Adams that feels like an extension of your own family, supporting your child’s development right here in our community.