The Best Daycare Centers in Cleveland, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Cleveland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Cleveland
Cleveland Early Childhood Family Center
Cleveland Public Schools
The Cleveland Early Childhood Family Center is a highly-regarded program operated by Cleveland Public Schools, focusing on play-based learning and developmental readiness for young children. The center employs licensed early childhood educators with specialized training in child development and uses a research-based curriculum that emphasizes social-emotional growth, literacy, and motor skills. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, safe outdoor play areas, and family engagement programs. Parents praise the center for its small class sizes, individualized attention, and strong community connections, making it a trusted option for families in the Cleveland area.
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New Horizon Academy - Mankato
New Horizon Academy
New Horizon Academy in Mankato is part of a reputable regional chain known for its high-quality educational programs and comprehensive safety protocols. The center offers a structured curriculum that includes STEM activities, literacy development, and social skills, delivered by qualified teachers with early childhood credentials. Features include secure facilities, nutritious meal programs, and modern learning materials. With a focus on parent communication and developmental milestones tracking, this center receives strong parent satisfaction ratings and serves families from Cleveland and surrounding areas due to its reliable transportation and flexible scheduling options.
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Le Sueur Community Child Care
Le Sueur Community Child Care Inc.
Le Sueur Community Child Care is an independent, non-profit center praised for its nurturing environment and experienced staff. The curriculum blends play-based and academic approaches, with emphasis on creativity, problem-solving, and kindergarten readiness. Staff members hold degrees in early childhood education and maintain low teacher-to-child ratios. The facility includes secure indoor and outdoor play spaces, and the center is known for its inclusive atmosphere and strong ties to the local community. Parents highlight the center's affordability, consistent communication, and dedication to child safety, making it a popular choice for Cleveland-area families seeking personalized care.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Cleveland, MN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Cleveland, MN?
In Cleveland, MN, daycare costs are generally lower than in larger metro areas but can vary based on the type of provider. For a licensed family childcare home, you can expect to pay approximately $150 to $225 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. A larger childcare center, if available locally or in nearby communities like Le Sueur or St. Peter, may range from $200 to $300 per week. It's important to note that Cleveland is a smaller community, so options within the city limits are limited, and many parents look to neighboring towns. Financial assistance is available through Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families, and some local providers participate.
How do I find and verify licensed childcare providers in or near Cleveland, MN?
The primary resource for finding licensed childcare in Minnesota is the statewide "Find Child Care" tool on the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) website. You can search by zip code (56017 for Cleveland) and filter by type (family, center, etc.). This tool shows each provider's license status, capacity, and any recorded licensing violations. For Cleveland specifically, most licensed options are family childcare homes. You should always verify a provider's current license by asking to see their DHS certificate and checking for any special certifications, like Parent Aware ratings, which indicate quality early learning practices. You can also contact the Le Sueur County Human Services department for local referrals.
Are there long waitlists for daycare in Cleveland, and how can I plan ahead?
Yes, due to the limited number of providers in a small town like Cleveland, waitlists are common, especially for infant care. It is not unusual for popular family childcare homes or centers in the area to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. To plan ahead, begin your search during pregnancy or as soon as you know you will need care. Contact providers directly to inquire about their enrollment process and get on multiple waitlists. Be prepared to consider providers in surrounding communities such as Kasota, Le Sueur, or St. Peter, which may have more options but also their own waitlists. Flexibility on start dates can sometimes improve your chances.
What are the options for school-age childcare, like before and after-school care, for Cleveland Public School students?
Cleveland Public School (ISD #99) currently does not host a district-run before and after-school program on-site. However, some local licensed family childcare providers in Cleveland may offer transportation to and from school and care for school-age children. Your best bet is to inquire with providers found on the DHS website who list "school-age" as a service. Alternatively, many families in the area create informal carpool arrangements or utilize programs in nearby larger towns. Exploring options in Le Sueur, where more structured programs might exist, and arranging transportation is a common solution for Cleveland parents.
What should I look for during an in-person visit to a family childcare home in Cleveland?
When visiting a potential family childcare home in Cleveland, go beyond the basics. First, confirm their DHS license is posted and current. Observe the safety of the home: check for covered outlets, secure gates on stairs, safe sleep practices for infants (like empty cribs), and cleanliness. Ask about their daily schedule, outdoor play area (especially important in a rural setting), and how they handle emergencies. Given Cleveland's location, inquire about their plan for severe weather and their policy on screen time. Discuss meals and snacks to see if they align with your preferences. Crucially, trust your instincts about the caregiver's warmth, engagement with the children, and communication style. Ask for references from other local parents.