The Best Daycare Centers in Cambridge, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Cambridge. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Cambridge
New Discoveries Montessori Academy
Independent Montessori School
New Discoveries Montessori Academy offers authentic Montessori education for children ages 6 weeks to 6 years. The center features certified Montessori teachers with specialized training in child development and Montessori methodology. Their curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, independence, and individualized instruction in carefully prepared classroom environments. The facility includes age-appropriate Montessori materials, natural lighting, and peaceful learning spaces. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and focus on developing the whole child through practical life skills, sensorial activities, language development, and mathematics. The center is known for its nurturing environment and strong parent communication.
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Little Learners Child Care & Preschool
Independent Childcare Center
Little Learners provides comprehensive early childhood education with a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation. The center employs qualified early childhood educators who implement Creative Curriculum with daily lesson plans focusing on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. Their facility features secure entry systems, age-separated classrooms, and both indoor and outdoor play areas. The program includes nutritious meals and snacks, regular developmental assessments, and strong emphasis on school readiness. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, clean environment, and excellent communication about their child's progress and daily activities.
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North Branch Area Early Childhood
North Branch Area Public Schools
While located in nearby North Branch, this highly-regarded early childhood center serves families throughout the Cambridge area with comprehensive preschool and early education programs. As part of the public school district, they employ licensed early childhood teachers and follow state-approved curriculum standards. Their program emphasizes school readiness through structured learning activities, social development, and early literacy and numeracy skills. The center features modern classrooms, specialized learning centers, and access to school district resources including gymnasium and playground facilities. They offer both typical peer models and special education services, creating an inclusive environment. Parents appreciate the qualified teaching staff and strong transition support to kindergarten.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Cambridge, MN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Cambridge, MN?
In Cambridge, MN, full-time daycare costs vary based on the type of provider. Licensed daycare centers typically charge between $250 and $350 per week for infants, and slightly less for toddlers. Licensed family childcare homes often range from $200 to $275 per week. These rates are generally lower than the Twin Cities metro area but can be influenced by factors like program curriculum, staff-to-child ratios, and included amenities (e.g., meals). It's important to ask what is included in the weekly fee. Additionally, many families in Isanti County qualify for assistance through Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs based on income and family size.
How long are waitlists for daycare centers in Cambridge, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists for infant care at popular daycare centers in Cambridge can be substantial, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for centers affiliated with employers or with high-quality ratings. For toddler and preschool spots, wait times may be shorter, around 3-6 months. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy, get on multiple lists (including licensed family providers), and follow up with centers every 2-3 months to confirm your interest remains active. Many local providers, like those listed through the First Children's Finance referral service for Isanti County, appreciate proactive communication. Consider a combination of a center and a home-based provider as a backup plan.
What are the key differences between a licensed daycare center and a licensed family childcare home in Cambridge?
In Cambridge, both types are licensed by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) but offer different environments. **Licensed Centers** (like New Horizon Academy or local church-affiliated centers) are typically in commercial buildings, have multiple staffed classrooms, and may offer structured educational curricula. They often have stricter staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants). **Licensed Family Childcare Homes** operate in a provider's residence, offering a mixed-age, home-like setting with smaller groups (up to 10 children total). They provide more flexible hours and can be more affordable. Both must meet state health, safety, and training standards. Your choice may depend on your child's need for a structured program versus a family-style setting and your commute within Cambridge.
Are there any unique local resources in Cambridge to help me find and evaluate childcare options?
Yes, Cambridge and Isanti County have several valuable local resources. The primary hub is **First Children's Finance**, which provides a free referral service for licensed providers in the county. You can also contact the **Isanti County Public Health Department** for guidance on licensing and inspections. For evaluating quality, check each provider's **Parent Aware Star Rating**—Minnesota's quality rating system. Many Cambridge providers participate, with ratings from 1 to 4 Stars indicating their level of early learning best practices. Additionally, local Facebook groups like "Cambridge, MN Community" often have parent recommendations and posts about daycare openings.
What should I look for during a daycare tour specific to regulations and safety in Minnesota?
During a tour in Cambridge, look for clear evidence of Minnesota DHS compliance. Ask to see the current license posted publicly, and check for recent correction orders (if any) on the DHS Licensing Lookup website. Observe: 1) **Safety:** Covered electrical outlets, secured cabinets for cleaners/medicines, and safe sleep practices for infants (cribs with firm mattresses, no loose bedding). 2) **Supervision:** Staff actively engaged with children, never leaving them unattended. 3) **Health:** Handwashing sinks in classrooms, a posted sick child policy, and proper food handling if meals are provided. 4) **Outdoor Play:** A secure, fenced outdoor area with age-appropriate equipment. Also, ask about staff background checks, ongoing training requirements (like SIDS/Shaken Baby Syndrome training), and their emergency plan for Cambridge-specific situations like severe weather.