The Best Daycare Centers in Bigelow, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Bigelow. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Bigelow
New Horizon Daycare
Independent
New Horizon Daycare is a highly-regarded facility serving the Bigelow area with comprehensive early childhood education programs. Operating for over 15 years, they feature a play-based learning curriculum that emphasizes social-emotional development and school readiness. Their qualified staff maintains low teacher-to-child ratios, with all lead teachers holding early childhood education credentials. The center includes secure indoor learning environments with age-appropriate classrooms and expansive outdoor play areas with modern safety equipment. They provide nutritious meals and snacks following USDA guidelines and maintain excellent parent communication through daily reports and a parent portal system.
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Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center offers a nature-inspired educational approach with strong emphasis on hands-on learning and outdoor exploration. Their curriculum integrates STEM activities, literacy development, and creative arts while maintaining a focus on character development. The center features secure, camera-monitored facilities with dedicated infant rooms, toddler learning centers, and preschool classrooms. All staff members are CPR and first aid certified with ongoing professional development requirements. The center is known for its inclusive environment and strong community partnerships, providing flexible scheduling options to accommodate working families in the Bigelow region.
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Primrose School of Worthington
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Worthington brings nationally accredited early education to the Bigelow service area with their Balanced Learning® approach that blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance. The curriculum focuses on developing literacy, math, science, and social studies skills while promoting character development and life skills. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and rigorous safety protocols. Their degreed teachers implement research-based instructional methods in purpose-built classrooms designed for optimal learning. The school maintains strong parent partnerships through regular communication, family events, and detailed progress tracking.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Bigelow, MN
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Bigelow, MN?
In Bigelow and the surrounding Nobles County area, parents typically have access to three main types of licensed childcare. These include licensed family childcare homes, which are smaller, home-based settings often offering a more flexible and family-like environment. There are also licensed childcare centers, which may be part of a larger organization or a standalone facility, offering structured programs for multiple age groups. Due to Bigelow's small size, many families also utilize legally unlicensed (but registered) Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) care. For the most reliable and regulated options, parents should search the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) licensing portal for providers in the 56117 zip code or nearby Worthington, which offers more center-based options.
How can I check the licensing and violation history of a daycare provider in Bigelow?
Minnesota state law requires all licensed childcare providers to be publicly listed. You can thoroughly check any provider's status by using the "Find a Child Care Provider" search tool on the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) website. By entering the provider's name or Bigelow's zip code (56117), you can view their current license type, capacity, age ranges served, and any serious licensing violations or corrective actions taken in the past. It's highly recommended to cross-reference this online information with an in-person visit and to ask the provider directly about their licensing history and compliance with state standards for safety, staff-to-child ratios, and training.
Are there long waitlists for childcare in Bigelow, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Given that Bigelow is a small community with limited providers, waitlists can be common, especially for infant and toddler spots which have stricter staff-to-child ratios. It is strongly advised to begin your search at least 3-6 months before you need care, and if you are expecting a child, to get on lists during your second trimester. Many family childcare homes in the area may have only a few openings per year. Expanding your search to include providers in nearby towns like Worthington (approx. 15 miles away) can increase your options and may offer shorter wait times, though this adds a commute factor to consider.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in the Bigelow area?
Costs can vary significantly based on the type of care and the provider. For a licensed family childcare home in Bigelow and Nobles County, you might expect to pay between $150-$225 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. A licensed center in the larger nearby hub of Worthington may range from $200-$275 per week. These rates are generally lower than the Minnesota state average, reflecting the region's cost of living. It's crucial to ask what is included in the weekly rate (e.g., meals, snacks, formula, educational materials) and to inquire about potential financial assistance programs like the Minnesota Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families.
What local resources or organizations can help me find and choose quality childcare in Nobles County?
Your primary local resource is the **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency that serves Southwest Minnesota**. This agency, often accessed through the Southwest Minnesota Opportunity Council (SMOC) or similar community action partnerships, provides free referrals to licensed providers in Bigelow and the wider region. They can help you understand your options, navigate the state's licensing website, and provide information on quality indicators. Additionally, connecting with other parents through local community groups, the Bigelow city newsletter, or social media pages can offer personal recommendations and insights into provider reputations that aren't found on official websites.