The Best Daycare Centers in Callaway, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Callaway. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Callaway
Kindercare Learning Centers - Detroit Lakes
Kindercare Education LLC
Kindercare offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with a research-based curriculum focused on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. Their dedicated teachers hold early childhood credentials and are CPR/First Aid certified, maintaining low teacher-to-child ratios for personalized attention. The facility features secure entrances, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Parents value the regular progress updates, nutritious meal programs, and emphasis on safety protocols, making it a trusted choice for families in the Callaway area.
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New Horizon Academy - Detroit Lakes
New Horizon Academy
New Horizon Academy emphasizes a play-based learning approach integrated with academic readiness skills, including STEM activities and literacy development. Staff members typically hold degrees in early childhood education and participate in ongoing training. The center maintains high safety standards with secured facilities, clean environments, and structured routines. Parents appreciate the transparent communication, individualized learning plans, and community-focused events, contributing to high satisfaction rates among families serving Callaway.
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Childtime Learning Centers - Detroit Lakes
Childtime Learning Centers
Childtime provides a balanced curriculum that fosters cognitive, social, and physical development through hands-on activities, creative arts, and technology integration. Qualified teachers follow state guidelines and maintain low ratios to ensure individualized care. The facility includes safe indoor and outdoor play spaces, and safety protocols like secure access and emergency drills are rigorously upheld. Parents commend the center for its flexible scheduling, nutritious meals, and strong focus on parent-teacher collaboration, making it a reliable option for Callaway residents.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Callaway, MN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Callaway, MN, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Callaway and the surrounding Becker 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 rates can vary based on the provider's licensing (family vs. center), specific programs offered, and whether meals are included. For financial assistance, Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is a key resource for eligible families in Becker County. Additionally, local organizations like the Becker County Human Services office can provide guidance on subsidies. Some providers in Callaway may also offer sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How do I verify a daycare provider's license and inspection history in Callaway, MN?
All licensed childcare providers in Minnesota are regulated by the Department of Human Services (DHS). You can verify a provider's license and view their most recent licensing review reports online through the Minnesota DHS Licensing Information Lookup tool. Simply enter the provider's name or city (Callaway). This report is crucial as it shows compliance history, any licensing violations, and the capacity they are approved for. For registered family childcare homes, you can also contact the Becker County Human Services - Child Care Licensing office directly for information. Always choose a licensed provider to ensure they meet state standards for safety, staff training, and child-to-staff ratios.
Are there any licensed childcare centers in Callaway, or is care primarily through in-home family providers?
Callaway is a smaller community, so childcare options are primarily licensed family childcare homes. These are small, home-based settings that often provide a more intimate environment and can be more flexible with hours. There are currently no large, standalone childcare centers within the city limits of Callaway itself. Many families also look to neighboring communities like Detroit Lakes (about a 15-20 minute drive) for center-based options, which may offer preschool curriculum and larger peer groups. When searching, use the Minnesota DHS lookup tool and filter for "Family Child Care" in the 56521 zip code to see current licensed home providers in Callaway.
What is the average waitlist time for daycare openings in Callaway, and when should I start looking?
Due to limited providers in a small town like Callaway, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant care. It is common to encounter waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. We strongly recommend beginning your search during pregnancy, ideally in the second trimester. Contact providers directly to inquire about their current waitlist procedures, estimated timelines, and any fees to hold a spot. Being proactive and getting on multiple lists increases your chances of securing care. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed homes in nearby rural areas of Becker County if you are able to commute.
What resources are available in Callaway to help me find and evaluate local daycare options?
Your best local resource is the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCRR) agency that serves Becker County, which is **Child Care Aware of Minnesota**. You can contact them via their website or helpline for a personalized referral list of licensed providers in and around Callaway. They can also help you understand quality indicators and the Parent Aware quality rating system (Minnesota's voluntary star-rated program). Locally, the Becker County Family Service Center and community bulletin boards at places like the Callaway City Hall or the local post office may have flyers from providers. Networking with other parents through community events or online local groups is also an invaluable way to get personal recommendations.