The Best Daycare Centers in Benson, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Benson. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Benson
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center is a highly-regarded local childcare facility offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. They feature a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. The center boasts low teacher-to-child ratios, with all lead teachers holding early childhood education credentials. Their secure facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, modern classrooms with natural lighting, and a commercial kitchen providing nutritious meals. Parents consistently praise their excellent communication, experienced staff, and nurturing environment that promotes developmental milestones.
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Kiddie Korner Child Care Center
Independent
Kiddie Korner Child Care Center has served the Benson community with a strong focus on individualized care and early childhood development. Their curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through creative arts, music, and sensory activities. The center features certified early childhood educators who maintain ongoing professional development. Safety is prioritized with secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The facility includes dedicated infant rooms, spacious preschool classrooms, and an enclosed outdoor play area. Parents appreciate their flexible scheduling options and consistent, quality care for children of all ages.
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New Horizons Childcare & Preschool
Regional Childcare Network
Located in nearby Morris (approximately 20 miles from Benson), New Horizons Childcare & Preschool serves families throughout Swift County and surrounding areas. This established center offers a comprehensive educational program based on Creative Curriculum with additional focus on literacy and kindergarten readiness. Their state-licensed facility features purpose-built classrooms, a large motor skills room for indoor physical activity, and developmentally appropriate learning centers. The staff includes degreed early childhood educators who implement individualized learning plans. The center is known for its strong parent-teacher partnerships, regular progress reporting, and inclusive environment that welcomes children with diverse needs and backgrounds.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Benson, MN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Benson, MN, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Benson and the surrounding Swift County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $175 to $225 per week, while toddler care is generally between $150 and $200 per week. These costs can vary based on the provider type (in-home vs. center-based) and the specific services offered. For financial assistance, Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is a key resource for eligible families, administered locally through the Swift County Human Services Department. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's highly recommended to contact providers directly for their current rates and to apply for CCAP through the county to determine your eligibility.
How can I find licensed in-home daycare providers versus childcare centers in Benson?
The most reliable resource is Minnesota's Department of Human Services (DHS) Licensing Information Lookup. You can search online specifically for licensed family childcare (in-home) and childcare center providers in Benson (ZIP code 56215) to view their licensing status, capacity, and any past licensing actions. Locally, you can also contact the Swift County Public Health Department or the Benson Area Chamber of Commerce for referrals. Networking through local parent groups on social media or at community hubs like the Benson Public Library can also yield personal recommendations for trusted in-home providers, which are a common childcare model in smaller communities like ours.
Are daycare waitlists common in Benson, and how far in advance should I start looking for care?
Yes, waitlists are common, especially for infant care spots due to stricter staff-to-child ratios. In a smaller community like Benson with a limited number of licensed providers, availability can be tight. It is strongly advised to begin your search during pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before your needed start date. Many popular in-home providers and the local childcare centers maintain waitlists. When contacting providers, always ask about their current waitlist length, the process for getting on it (some may require a fee), and how often they update families on their position.
What are Minnesota's key licensing requirements for daycare providers that I should be aware of as a parent in Benson?
All licensed providers in Benson must meet Minnesota's rigorous Rule 3 (family childcare) or Rule 2 (childcare center) standards. Key requirements parents can verify include: background studies for all household members and staff, annual pre-service and ongoing training in areas like SIDS, shaken baby syndrome, and first aid/CPR, compliance with health and safety standards (safe sleep, medication administration, etc.), and mandated child-to-staff ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants). Providers are also required to have a current license posted. You can view a provider's specific licensing report, including any corrections they've had to make, on the MN DHS website to make an informed choice.
What childcare options are available for parents with non-traditional work hours or who need part-time care in Benson?
Options for non-traditional hours (evenings, weekends, overnights) are very limited in Benson. Most licensed family childcare homes and centers operate on a standard weekday schedule (approx. 6:30 AM - 5:30 PM). For part-time care, some providers may offer slots on a case-by-case basis if they have availability, but full-time enrollment is often prioritized. Your best strategies are to: 1) Directly inquire with all local providers about any flexibility, 2) Consider a nanny share with another local family, which can offer more schedule control, or 3) Explore care options in nearby larger towns like Willmar, which may have centers with extended hours, though this adds commute time. Planning and flexibility are crucial.