The Best Daycare Centers in Chisholm, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Chisholm. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Chisholm
New Horizon Academy
New Horizon Academy
As part of Minnesota's largest childcare network, this center offers comprehensive early childhood education with research-based curriculum including STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. Features state-licensed teachers with early childhood degrees, secure entry systems, and age-appropriate learning environments. The facility includes dedicated infant rooms with low teacher-child ratios, outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups, and nutritious meal programs. Parents consistently praise the structured daily routines, communication through the parent app, and the center's focus on kindergarten readiness through their proprietary curriculum.
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Northern Lights Learning Center
Independent
Located in nearby Hibbing (serving the Iron Range region including Chisholm), this highly-rated independent center emphasizes play-based learning with structured educational components. Features certified early childhood educators, small class sizes, and a curriculum that incorporates Montessori-inspired activities alongside traditional preschool preparation. The center boasts modern safety features including secured access, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. Parents highlight the warm, family-like atmosphere, consistent teacher communication, and the center's focus on individualized attention and developmental milestones tracking.
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Kids Corner Child Care & Preschool
Independent
Serving the Iron Range community from Virginia (approximately 15 miles from Chisholm), this established center offers a balanced approach to early childhood education with emphasis on both academic preparation and social development. Features a structured preschool curriculum that includes phonics, math readiness, and science exploration, complemented by creative arts and physical activities. The center employs experienced, CPR-certified staff with ongoing professional development requirements. Facilities include age-separated classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and a comprehensive food program. Parents consistently note the center's strong communication, experienced leadership, and welcoming environment for families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Chisholm, MN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Chisholm, MN, and how can I verify a provider's license?
In Chisholm, Minnesota, all licensed childcare providers must meet the standards set by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS). This includes family childcare (in-home) providers and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet health, safety, staff-to-child ratio, and training requirements. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the "Find a Child Care Provider" search tool on the Minnesota DHS website. You can search by city (Chisholm) or zip code (55719) to see a list of licensed providers, their license type, capacity, and any past licensing actions. You can also contact the Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency (AEOA), which is the local Child Care Resource and Referral (CCRR) agency for the Iron Range area, for assistance in verifying providers and understanding local compliance.
What is the typical cost range for full-time daycare in Chisholm, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Chisholm and the surrounding Iron Range, full-time daycare costs can vary. For an infant in a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $150-$225 per week. For a childcare center, costs can be higher, potentially ranging from $200-$300 per week for infants. Rates often decrease slightly for toddlers and preschoolers. Financial assistance is available for qualifying families through the Minnesota Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP). This state program, administered locally through St. Louis County, provides subsidies based on family income, size, and need. Additionally, the local AEOA can help parents navigate the application process and may have information on other local scholarships or sliding-scale fee programs offered by specific providers.
How long are daycare waitlists typically in Chisholm, and what can I do to secure a spot for my infant?
Due to limited childcare capacity in Chisholm and the broader Iron Range region, waitlists for infant care (children under 16 months) can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months or more. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible, even during pregnancy. When contacting providers, ask specific questions about their waitlist process: Is there a fee to be on the list? How often should you check in to maintain your position? Do they prioritize siblings of current families? Expanding your search to nearby communities like Hibbing, Buhl, or Virginia may increase your options, though this adds commuting considerations. Building a relationship with a few preferred providers by checking in periodically can also be beneficial.
Are there any unique childcare options in Chisholm that cater to families with non-traditional or shift work schedules?
Finding childcare for evenings, overnight, or weekend shifts is a common challenge in Chisholm, given the prevalence of shift work in mining, healthcare, and other local industries. While standard daycare hours are typically 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, some licensed family childcare providers may offer flexible or extended hours to accommodate these needs. It requires direct inquiry and may involve a premium rate. There is no dedicated 24-hour childcare center in Chisholm itself. Your best strategy is to contact providers directly, explain your schedule needs, and ask if they have any flexibility or know of other providers who might. The AEOA referral service can also help identify providers who have indicated they offer care during non-standard hours.
What local resources in Chisholm can help me evaluate and choose a quality daycare program?
Parents in Chisholm have several local resources. First, the **Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency (AEOA)** offers free, personalized child care referrals and can provide checklists for visiting and evaluating programs. Second, all licensed programs in Minnesota are assigned a **Parent Aware Star Rating** (1-4 Stars), which is a voluntary quality rating system. You can search for rated programs in Chisholm on the Parent Aware website; a higher star rating indicates a program that uses best practices in early learning. Finally, don't underestimate local networks. Ask for recommendations from other parents at places like the Chisholm Public Library, the YMCA, or your pediatrician's office. Always schedule an in-person visit to observe the environment, ask about curriculum, and meet the caregivers.