The Best Daycare Centers in Barry, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Barry. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Barry
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center is a highly-regarded childcare facility located just 15 minutes from Barry in Barnesville. They offer a comprehensive educational program using Creative Curriculum that focuses on developmental milestones through play-based learning. The center features state-certified teachers with early childhood education degrees, low student-to-teacher ratios, and secure facility access with camera monitoring. Their program includes daily outdoor play in fenced playgrounds, nutritious meal programs, and regular parent communication through digital portfolios. Special emphasis is placed on social-emotional development and school readiness skills for preschool-aged children.
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Tiny Treasures Childcare
Independent
Tiny Treasures Childcare provides quality early childhood education serving the Barry area from nearby Barnesville. Their program emphasizes hands-on, experiential learning with a focus on literacy development and STEM activities. The center maintains small class sizes with highly qualified staff who receive ongoing professional development. Safety features include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and emergency preparedness training. They offer flexible scheduling options and maintain strong parent partnerships through regular conferences and daily communication logs. The curriculum integrates music, art, and physical activity to support whole-child development.
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Imagination Station Childcare Center
Independent
Located in Hawley approximately 20 minutes from Barry, Imagination Station has built a strong reputation for excellence in early childhood education. They implement a research-based curriculum that prepares children for kindergarten success while nurturing individual interests and talents. The center features dedicated learning centers, modern educational materials, and outdoor learning environments. Staff members hold degrees in early childhood education and participate in continuous training. Their comprehensive program includes family-style meals, transportation for school-age children, and enrichment activities like gardening and cultural celebrations. The center is known for its inclusive environment and strong community connections.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Barry, MN
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Barry, Minnesota, and how can I verify a daycare is properly licensed?
In Barry, Minnesota, all childcare centers and family childcare homes serving more than one unrelated family must be licensed by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS). Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, and program activities. Family childcare providers can be licensed for up to 10 children, including their own. You can verify a provider's license status and view any past licensing actions through the Minnesota DHS Licensing Information Lookup website. It's highly recommended to check this public database and ask the provider for their license number. The local Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency for the region can also assist with verification and provide information on licensed options in and around Barry.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Barry, MN, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to limited childcare options in smaller communities like Barry, waitlists can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for infant care. It's advisable to begin your search and get on multiple lists as early as possible, even during pregnancy. When contacting providers, ask specific questions about their waitlist process: Is there a fee to join? How often is the list updated? How are spots offered (e.g., first-come, first-served or by priority)? To broaden your search, consider licensed family childcare homes in Barry and centers in nearby larger towns like Marshall or Tracy. Staying in regular, polite contact with providers can also help keep your family top of mind when an opening arises.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare for an infant or toddler in Barry, Minnesota?
Childcare costs in Barry are generally lower than in major Minnesota metro areas but can vary based on the type of care and the child's age. For a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay approximately $150-$225 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. A childcare center in a nearby town may cost $200-$275 per week. Infant care is typically the most expensive due to lower staff-to-child ratios. It's important to ask providers exactly what is included in the weekly rate (meals, snacks, supplies). Families may be eligible for assistance through Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) based on income; you can apply through Lyon County Human Services.
Are there any unique childcare programs or resources in Barry that support agricultural families or non-traditional work hours?
Barry is located in a largely agricultural region, and finding care for non-standard hours (early mornings, evenings, or weekends during planting and harvest seasons) can be a challenge. While specific 24/7 centers are rare, some licensed family childcare providers in the area may offer flexible or part-time schedules to accommodate shift work or seasonal demands. It's crucial to discuss your specific schedule needs upfront. Additionally, the Southwest Minnesota Child Care Resource & Referral network is aware of these regional needs and can help identify providers with flexible hours. Exploring in-home nanny shares with another local family might be another practical solution for covering irregular schedules common in farming communities.
What should I look for during an in-person visit to a potential daycare in Barry, and are there local resources to help me evaluate options?
When visiting a daycare in Barry, observe the environment: Is it clean, safe, and well-lit? Do the children seem engaged and happy? Check for safety features like secured outlets, gates, and a fenced outdoor play area. Ask about the daily routine, educational philosophy, and staff qualifications and tenure (low turnover is a good sign). Inquire about their policies for sick children, emergencies, and parent communication. A key local resource is the **Southwest Minnesota Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R)**, which serves Lyon County. They can provide you with a checklist of things to look for and questions to ask. They may also have knowledge of the reputation and history of providers in the Barry area. Trusting your instincts about the caregiver's warmth and interaction with the children is paramount.