The Best Daycare Centers in Ashby, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Ashby. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Ashby
Ashby Kidstop
Community Education
Ashby Kidstop operates as part of the Ashby Public School District's community education program, providing high-quality early childhood education and school-age care. The center focuses on age-appropriate developmental activities, structured learning environments, and seamless integration with the local school system. Staff are licensed early childhood educators with extensive training in child development. The program emphasizes social-emotional learning, kindergarten readiness, and provides nutritious snacks. Their location within the school campus allows for smooth transitions to elementary education and access to school facilities.
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Little Learners Childcare & Preschool
Independent
Located just 15 minutes from Ashby in Evansville, Little Learners Childcare & Preschool serves families throughout the Ashby area with comprehensive early childhood programs. They feature a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates Montessori and Reggio Emilia influences, focusing on individual child development and hands-on exploration. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios with qualified early childhood educators who receive ongoing professional development. Facilities include secure, age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play areas, and developmentally appropriate learning materials. They emphasize parent communication and offer flexible scheduling options.
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Alexandria Early Education
Independent
Serving the broader region including Ashby families, Alexandria Early Education provides comprehensive childcare services with a strong educational foundation. Their curriculum emphasizes literacy development, STEM activities, and social skills through structured play and guided learning. The center features state-licensed teachers with degrees in early childhood education and maintains rigorous safety protocols including secured entry systems and comprehensive background checks. Facilities include modern classrooms, large outdoor play spaces, and specialized learning centers for different developmental stages. They offer nutritious meal programs and maintain excellent communication with parents through daily reports and regular conferences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Ashby, MN
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Ashby, MN, and how do I find them?
In Ashby, parents primarily have access to licensed family childcare homes and potentially center-based programs, though centers may be located in nearby larger towns like Fergus Falls. Family childcare homes are common in smaller communities and offer a home-like setting with mixed-age groups. To find licensed providers, the most reliable resource is Minnesota’s Department of Human Services (DHS) "Find Child Care" online search tool. You can filter by city (Ashby), zip code (56309), and type of care. Additionally, connecting with local networks like the Ashby community Facebook page or asking at the Ashby School District office can provide personal recommendations for trusted in-home providers.
What is the typical cost for full-time childcare in Ashby, and are there financial assistance programs for Grant County residents?
In Ashby and surrounding Grant County, full-time childcare costs are generally lower than state metro averages but can vary. For a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $150-$225 per week for an infant/toddler. Preschool-age care may range from $130-$190 per week. Financial assistance is available through Minnesota’s Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which is administered by Grant County Social Services. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. The Ashby School District's Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) may also have sliding-scale fees for part-time preschool programs. It's crucial to apply for CCAP early, as processing can take time.
Are waitlists common for daycare providers in Ashby, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small town like Ashby, waitlists are very common, especially for infant care. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search at least 6-9 months before their needed start date, and even earlier if possible. Many well-regarded family childcare homes in the area have limited capacity (often 6-10 children total) and may fill openings only once or twice a year. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current availability and waitlist policy. Being flexible with your start date can improve your chances. Exploring options in neighboring towns like Elbow Lake or Fergus Falls can also provide more alternatives if Ashby waitlists are full.
What are Minnesota's key licensing requirements for in-home providers that I should verify when choosing care in Ashby?
All licensed family childcare providers in Ashby must meet Minnesota DHS standards. Key requirements parents should verify include: 1) **Current License:** The provider must post their license visibly. You can check its status online for any past violations. 2) **Capacity and Ratios:** For homes, the ratio is 1 caregiver to no more than 6 children, with no more than 3 under age 2. 3) **Health and Safety:** Providers must have passed inspections for safe sleep practices (cribs), fire safety, emergency drills, and childproofing. 4) **Training:** Providers need ongoing training in CPR, First Aid, SUIDS/Shaken Baby Syndrome, and child development. Don't hesitate to ask a provider about these specifics; a reputable professional will be happy to share their compliance.
Does the Ashby School District offer any preschool or early childhood programs that can complement childcare?
Yes, the Ashby School District, through its partnership with the West Central Minnesota Communities Action network, typically offers Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) and School Readiness preschool programs. These are often part-day, part-week programs designed for children ages 3-5. They can be an excellent complement to a family childcare arrangement, providing structured early learning and socialization. For school-year 2024-2025, the district is exploring expanded preschool options. Parents should contact the Ashby Elementary School office directly for the most current schedule, eligibility, and registration information, as these programs can fill quickly and may have income-based sliding fees.