The Best Daycare Centers in Danvers, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Danvers. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Danvers
KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education
KinderCare in Willmar provides a nationally recognized early childhood education program with a play-based curriculum designed to foster social, emotional, and cognitive development. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, CPR and First Aid certified staff, secure keypad entry systems, and nutritious meal programs. Parents consistently praise the engaging, age-appropriate activities and strong communication from dedicated teachers. The facility includes indoor and outdoor play spaces, and the curriculum aligns with state early learning standards to ensure school readiness.
Daycare Services:
New Horizon Academy - Willmar
New Horizon Academy
New Horizon Academy offers a structured, research-based curriculum focused on literacy, math, science, and social skills to prepare children for kindergarten. Staff members hold degrees in early childhood education and participate in ongoing training, with an emphasis on safety through daily health checks and secure facilities. The center is known for its inclusive environment, cultural diversity, and strong parent-teacher partnerships. Features include modern learning materials, outdoor playgrounds, and flexible scheduling options to meet family needs.
Daycare Services:
Willmar Community Child Care Center
Independent
As a non-profit center, Willmar Community Child Care focuses on providing affordable, high-quality childcare with a community-oriented approach. The curriculum balances play-based and structured learning to support developmental milestones, led by certified teachers in small class sizes. The center emphasizes safety with monitored access, nutritious meals, and regular cleanliness protocols. Parents value the warm, nurturing atmosphere, family engagement events, and the center's commitment to inclusive care for all children.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Danvers, MN
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Danvers, MN, and how do I find them?
In Danvers, MN, licensed childcare options primarily include licensed family childcare homes (operated in a provider's residence, typically for smaller groups) and licensed childcare centers. Due to Danvers's size as a small city, family childcare homes are often the most prevalent local option. To find licensed providers, parents should use the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) "Find Child Care" online search tool. This tool allows you to filter by location (using Danvers's ZIP code, 56231), type of care, and age of child. Additionally, contacting the Southwest Initiative Foundation or the Child Care Resource and Referral agency serving Swift County can provide personalized local referrals and information on current openings.
What is the typical cost range for full-time childcare in Danvers, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In Danvers and the surrounding Swift County area, costs for full-time childcare can vary. For an infant in a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay approximately $150-$200 per week. Rates for toddlers and preschoolers are often slightly lower. Costs in a center setting, which you may need to look for in nearby larger towns like Benson or Willmar, can be higher. Financial assistance is available through Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which helps eligible low- and middle-income families. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (work, training, etc.). Applications are processed through the Swift County Family Services office. It's crucial to apply and get approved before selecting a provider, as not all providers accept CCAP.
Are daycare waitlists common in Danvers, and how far in advance should I start looking for care?
Given the limited number of providers in a small community like Danvers, waitlists are very common and can be lengthy, especially for infant care. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search during pregnancy, ideally 6-12 months before their needed start date. When contacting providers, ask immediately about current availability and their waitlist process, including any fees to join. Be prepared to get on multiple waitlists. Expanding your search to neighboring communities such as Benson (about 10 miles away) can increase your options, though this will involve commuting for drop-off and pick-up.
What are the key Minnesota state licensing requirements I should verify when choosing a daycare in Danvers?
All licensed providers in Danvers must comply with Minnesota DHS Rule 3 regulations. Key requirements parents should verify include: staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:7 for toddlers), maximum group sizes, background checks for all staff, annual training in topics like Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and shaken baby syndrome, and health and safety standards for the facility. You can view a provider's licensing record, including any past violations, through the DHS online licensing lookup. Don't hesitate to ask a provider directly about their license status, staff qualifications, and emergency procedures. Licensed providers are also required to have a current CPR and First Aid certification.
Are there any unique local resources or programs for preschool-aged children in Danvers daycare settings?
While Danvers itself is small, local family childcare homes and programs often participate in broader county and state early childhood initiatives. Many providers utilize the "Parent Aware" rating system, Minnesota's voluntary quality rating program for early learning. A Parent Aware star rating can help identify programs with enhanced school readiness practices. Furthermore, through the Southwest Initiative Foundation, some providers may have access to grants for educational materials. For children ages 3-5, inquire if the provider partners with the Benson or Kerkhoven-Murdock-Sunburg school districts for Early Childhood Screening or voluntary pre-kindergarten programs, which may involve itinerant teachers visiting the daycare setting.