The Best Daycare Centers in Cushing, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Cushing. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Cushing
Little Falls Community Early Childhood Family Education
Little Falls Community Schools
This highly-regarded early childhood program serves the broader Morrison County area including Cushing families. They offer comprehensive early childhood education with certified teachers holding degrees in early childhood development. The program emphasizes play-based learning, social-emotional development, and school readiness skills. Their curriculum aligns with Minnesota Early Childhood Indicators of Progress and features small class sizes with excellent teacher-to-child ratios. The facility includes dedicated age-appropriate classrooms, indoor play areas, and outdoor learning spaces. Parent involvement is strongly encouraged through regular communication and family events.
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Randall Early Childhood Family Center
Randall Public Schools
Serving families throughout Morrison County including Cushing, this center provides high-quality early childhood programming with licensed early childhood teachers. They offer a structured yet nurturing environment with developmentally appropriate curriculum focusing on literacy, math readiness, and social skills. The facility features modern security systems, sanitization protocols, and age-specific learning centers. Their staff maintains ongoing professional development in early childhood best practices. The program includes regular developmental assessments and strong parent-teacher partnerships to support each child's growth and learning journey.
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Motley Childcare Center
Independent
This well-established independent childcare center serves families throughout the Cushing area with comprehensive childcare services. They employ qualified early childhood educators who create engaging learning environments through thematic units and hands-on activities. The center features secure facilities with monitored access, nutritious meal programs, and spacious outdoor play areas. Their curriculum balances structured learning with creative exploration, incorporating STEM activities, literacy development, and arts integration. The center maintains excellent staff retention and low child-to-teacher ratios, ensuring personalized attention and consistent care for each child.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Cushing, MN
What types of licensed childcare options are available in and around Cushing, MN?
In Cushing and the surrounding Morrison County area, parents typically have access to several types of licensed childcare. These include licensed family childcare homes, which are smaller, home-based settings often offering a more flexible and family-like environment. Due to Cushing's rural nature, these are a common and vital option. There are also licensed childcare centers, though these may be located in nearby larger towns like Little Falls (approximately 15-20 minutes away). The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) licenses all providers, ensuring they meet state standards for health, safety, and staff training. You can search for licensed providers in the 56443 zip code and surrounding areas using the DHS online "Find Child Care" tool.
How long are waitlists for childcare in Cushing, and how can I secure a spot?
Waitlists for quality childcare in Cushing and Morrison County can be significant, often several months to over a year for infants and toddlers, due to limited provider capacity in a rural area. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on lists as early as possible, even during pregnancy. When contacting providers, be prepared to ask specific questions: their current waitlist length, if there's a fee to be on the list, and how often they update it. Consider expanding your search radius to include nearby communities like Lastrup, Randall, or Little Falls. Building a relationship with a potential provider and checking in periodically (without being a nuisance) can also be beneficial.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Cushing, and are there financial assistance programs?
The cost of childcare in Cushing is generally lower than in Minnesota's metropolitan areas but varies by provider type. For a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $150-$225 per week for full-time infant/toddler care. A center-based program in a nearby town may range from $200-$275 per week. Financial assistance is available for eligible families through Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), administered by Morrison County Family Services. Your eligibility is based on income, household size, and reason for care (work, school, etc.). We recommend contacting Morrison County directly to apply and also asking individual providers if they accept CCAP subsidies.
What should I look for during a tour of a daycare or family childcare home in Cushing?
When touring a potential childcare setting in Cushing, go beyond the basics. First, verify their current Minnesota DHS license is posted. Observe the environment: Is it clean, safe, and well-organized? Do the children seem engaged and happy? Ask about the daily schedule, educational philosophy, and how they handle discipline. Inquire about staff qualifications, tenure, and the provider's backup plan for sick days—this is crucial in a rural area with fewer substitutes. Discuss their policies on meals, outdoor play (especially important in our climate), and communication with parents. Trust your instincts about the caregiver's warmth and professionalism. Don't hesitate to ask for references from current parents.
Are there any unique seasonal or community-based childcare resources in Cushing for school-age children?
Yes, Cushing's small, tight-knit community offers specific resources, particularly for school-age children. During the summer and school breaks, the Little Falls Community Schools (which Cushing students attend) often operate Community Education programs that include affordable day camps and recreational activities, though transportation from Cushing may need to be arranged. Additionally, local organizations like the Cushing Community Center or churches may host seasonal vacation bible schools or activity days. For before and after-school care, options are very limited in Cushing itself, so most families rely on in-home providers or make arrangements with family. Connecting with other parents through local Facebook groups or community boards is an excellent way to learn about informal networks and shared care arrangements.