The Best Daycare Centers in Borup, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Borup. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Borup
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center, located just 15 minutes from Borup in Hawley, offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with a play-based learning approach. The center features state-licensed teachers with early childhood development credentials and maintains low teacher-to-child ratios. Their curriculum emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy readiness, and hands-on learning experiences. The facility includes secure indoor classrooms with age-appropriate learning centers and a large, fenced outdoor playground. Parents praise the center's warm, family-like atmosphere, consistent communication through daily reports, and nutritious meal program. Safety features include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills.
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Discovery Place Childcare & Preschool
Independent
Discovery Place Childcare & Preschool in nearby Hawley serves the Borup community with a Montessori-inspired curriculum that encourages independent learning and exploration. The center features certified early childhood educators who create individualized learning plans for each child. Their program includes STEM activities, creative arts, music enrichment, and outdoor nature exploration. The facility boasts modern, well-equipped classrooms with natural lighting and age-appropriate learning materials. Safety is prioritized with 24/7 video monitoring, secure keypad entry, and strict health protocols. Parents consistently highlight the center's excellent communication, experienced staff, and the visible developmental progress children make through their structured yet flexible learning environment.
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Kindercare Learning Center - Moorhead
Kindercare Education
As part of the nationally recognized Kindercare network, this Moorhead location serves families from Borup and surrounding areas with a research-based curriculum developed by early childhood experts. The center offers comprehensive programs from infancy through school-age, with age-appropriate learning activities that focus on literacy, math, science, and social skills development. Features include dedicated learning centers, interactive technology integration, and a large outdoor play space. Staff members hold early childhood credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. The center maintains high safety standards with secure entry systems, regular facility inspections, and comprehensive emergency preparedness protocols. Parents appreciate the consistent quality, transparent communication through the Kindercare mobile app, and the center's commitment to inclusive, developmentally appropriate practices.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Borup, MN
What types of licensed childcare options are available in Borup, MN, and how can I find them?
In Borup, a small rural community in Norman County, licensed childcare options primarily consist of family childcare homes. These are in-home providers licensed by the State of Minnesota to care for a smaller number of children, often offering a more home-like environment. Due to the town's size, there are no large childcare centers within Borup itself. To find licensed providers, parents should use the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) "Find Child Care" online search tool. This tool allows you to search by zip code (56519) and filter by type of care. It's also highly recommended to contact the Norman County Family Service Collaborative or ask within local community networks, churches, and the Borup school for personal referrals, as word-of-mouth is crucial in small communities.
What is the typical cost for full-time childcare in Borup, and is there any financial assistance available?
In Borup and the surrounding rural area, the cost for full-time care in a licensed family childcare home typically ranges from $150 to $250 per week per child, though rates can vary based on the provider's experience, hours, and whether meals are included. This is generally lower than urban center rates in Minnesota. For financial assistance, Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is a key resource for eligible families based on income, family size, and need. Applications are processed through the Norman County Human Services office. Additionally, some local employers or the Norman County Collaborative may have information on sliding-scale options or temporary support programs for working families.
Are waitlists common for childcare in Borup, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common and can be lengthy due to the limited number of providers in a small town like Borup. It is not unusual for there to be only a handful of licensed providers serving the entire community and surrounding farms. Parents are strongly advised to begin their search as early as possible—ideally 6 to 12 months before their needed start date, especially for infant care, which has the fewest available spots. Contacting providers during pregnancy is a standard practice here. Be prepared to get on multiple waitlists and maintain communication with providers every few months.
What are the state licensing requirements I should verify for a childcare provider in Borup?
All licensed providers in Minnesota, including those in Borup, must meet strict standards set by the Department of Human Services. Key requirements parents should verify include: passing background checks for all adults in the home, completing CPR and First Aid certification, adhering to health and safety training (including SIDS and Abusive Head Trauma), following capacity and age-ratio rules, and maintaining a safe physical environment. Licensed providers are also required to have an annual inspection. You can view a provider's licensing record, including any past violations, through the DHS online licensing lookup. Don't hesitate to ask a provider to see their current license.
As a parent in a rural area like Borup, what should I consider regarding transportation and hours of operation for childcare?
Transportation is a critical factor in Borup. Most family childcare homes do not offer transportation services, so parents are responsible for drop-off and pick-up. Consider the provider's location relative to your home, workplace (which may be in a neighboring town like Ada or Hawley), and your child's potential school (Borup Public School). Hours of operation can also be more tailored but may be less flexible than in urban centers. Many providers in agricultural communities may have standard hours (e.g., 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM) that align with common work schedules but may not accommodate very early or late shifts. It's essential to discuss your specific schedule needs upfront and have a backup plan for days when roads are impassable due to Minnesota winter weather.