The Best Daycare Centers in Alexandria, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Alexandria. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Alexandria
Little Learners Child Development Center
Independent
Little Learners Child Development Center offers a comprehensive educational approach with play-based learning and structured curriculum. The center focuses on early childhood development through age-appropriate activities, including STEM exploration, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. Staff members hold early childhood education degrees and maintain low teacher-to-child ratios. The facility features secure entry systems, modern classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, nutritious meal program, and the caring, qualified teaching staff who create a nurturing environment for children's growth and development.
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Little Saints Childcare & Preschool
Independent
Little Saints Childcare & Preschool provides a faith-based educational environment while maintaining high academic standards. The center implements Creative Curriculum with hands-on learning experiences and individualized attention. Special features include a dedicated infant room with specialized caregivers, structured preschool program preparing children for kindergarten, and secure outdoor play areas. The staff maintains CPR and first aid certifications, and the center follows strict health and safety protocols. Parents highlight the center's family-friendly atmosphere, experienced teachers, and the balanced approach to education that includes both academic preparation and character development.
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Kidstop Early Learning Center
Independent
Kidstop Early Learning Center offers a research-based curriculum that emphasizes whole-child development through play and exploration. The center features age-specific learning environments, including sensory-rich infant rooms, hands-on toddler classrooms, and academically-focused preschool programs. Their qualified teaching staff participates in ongoing professional development and maintains low child-to-teacher ratios. The facility includes secure access systems, modern learning materials, and age-appropriate outdoor play spaces. Parents consistently commend the center's experienced leadership, transparent communication, and the nurturing environment that supports children's social, emotional, and academic growth.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Alexandria, MN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Alexandria, MN, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Alexandria, MN, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the child's age and the type of provider. For an infant, you can expect to pay between $225 and $275 per week at a licensed center, while toddler care typically ranges from $200 to $250 per week. In-home licensed family childcare is often slightly less, averaging $175 to $225 per week. It's important to note that these are estimates, and rates can differ between providers. For financial assistance, Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is the primary resource for eligible families, administered locally through Douglas County Social Services. Additionally, some local daycare centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Alexandria, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Alexandria, particularly for infants and toddlers, can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer for highly sought-after providers. This is due to high demand and limited infant-care slots mandated by Minnesota staff-to-child ratios. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Contact multiple centers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $25-$75). Consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in Alexandria and surrounding towns like Garfield or Carlos, as they may have shorter wait times. Follow up with providers every few months to confirm your spot and express continued interest.
What are the key differences between a licensed childcare center and a licensed family childcare home in Alexandria?
In Alexandria, the two main licensed options operate under different models. Licensed Childcare Centers (like New Horizon Daycare or Little Learners) are typically larger facilities in commercial buildings, with multiple staff, structured classrooms, and often set hours (e.g., 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM). They may offer preschool curricula and have more resources. Licensed Family Childcare Homes are operated out of the provider's residence, caring for a smaller, mixed-age group of up to 10 children (with specific age limits). They often provide a more home-like environment with flexible hours and may be more accommodating for non-standard work schedules. Both are regulated by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) and undergo background checks and health and safety inspections, but their environments and daily rhythms differ significantly.
Are there any state or local resources in Alexandria to help me check the licensing and complaint history of a daycare provider?
Yes, Minnesota provides excellent public tools for vetting childcare providers. The primary resource is the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) Licensing Information Lookup website. You can search for any licensed provider in Alexandria by name or location to view their license status, capacity, age ranges served, and any serious licensing violations or substantiated complaints. For a more localized perspective, you can contact the Douglas County Public Health department or consult with Child Care Aware of Minnesota, which serves the region and can offer referrals and guidance. Additionally, asking for references from other local parents in Alexandria community groups (like on Facebook) can provide invaluable firsthand insights.
What options exist for part-time, drop-in, or emergency childcare in the Alexandria area?
Regular part-time and drop-in care can be challenging to find in Alexandria, as most licensed providers prioritize full-time enrollments to maintain stable income. However, some family childcare homes may offer part-time slots or flexible arrangements. For occasional drop-in or emergency care, your best bets are to inquire with local centers about potential "back-up care" policies or to use a service like Care.com to find registered in-home providers who offer occasional care. Another option for preschool-aged children is to utilize part-time preschool programs at churches or community centers, such as those offered by Alexandria Early Education or local churches, though these are often limited to a few half-days per week and are not full-day care solutions. Planning ahead and building a network of local babysitters is highly recommended for emergency situations.