The Best Daycare Centers in Dexter, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Dexter. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Dexter
Little Lambs Early Learning Center
Little Lambs Early Learning Center
Little Lambs Early Learning Center is a highly-regarded local childcare facility in Dexter offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. They feature a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios with qualified early childhood educators who receive ongoing professional development. Their facility includes secure indoor learning environments and safe outdoor play areas with age-appropriate equipment. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, strong communication, and individualized attention each child receives. The center emphasizes Christian values while welcoming families of all backgrounds.
Daycare Services:
The Children's House of Owatonna
The Children's House
Located approximately 15 minutes from Dexter in Owatonna, The Children's House offers Montessori-inspired education with certified Montessori teachers. Their curriculum focuses on hands-on learning, independence, and individualized development plans. The facility features purpose-built classrooms with Montessori materials, secure outdoor nature exploration areas, and comprehensive safety protocols including secure entry systems. Staff hold degrees in early childhood education and maintain ongoing training. The center is praised for its academic preparation, cultural diversity programs, and strong parent-teacher partnerships. They serve many families from surrounding communities including Dexter.
Daycare Services:
New Horizon Academy - Rochester
New Horizon Academy
As part of Minnesota's largest and most established childcare network, New Horizon Academy in Rochester serves families throughout southeastern Minnesota, including Dexter residents. Their research-based curriculum emphasizes STEM education, literacy development, and social skills through structured learning centers and project-based activities. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems, nutritious meal programs prepared on-site, and developmentally appropriate learning environments. Teachers hold early childhood credentials and participate in continuous professional development. Parents consistently rate the center highly for its educational quality, communication, and safe, clean facilities. The center offers flexible scheduling to accommodate commuting families.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Dexter, MN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Dexter, MN, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Dexter and the surrounding Mower County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $175 to $225 per week, while toddler care is generally between $150 and $200 per week. These rates are often lower than in larger Minnesota metro areas but can vary based on the provider's licensing type (family vs. center) and specific services offered. For financial assistance, Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is available to eligible families in Mower County. Additionally, local organizations like the United Way of Mower County can provide guidance on resources. It's also worth inquiring directly with providers, as some may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees based on income.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Dexter is licensed and in good standing with the state?
All licensed childcare providers in Dexter, MN, are regulated by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS). You can verify a provider's license and review their compliance history through the online "Minnesota Licensing Information Lookup" tool on the DHS website. This public database shows the provider's license type (family, group family, or center), capacity, any licensing violations, and the date of their last inspection. For an additional local perspective, you can contact the Mower County Human Services office. Always ask to see the provider's current license during your visit, and don't hesitate to request references from other Dexter-area parents.
Are there many licensed in-home family daycare options in Dexter, and what are their advantages for a small community?
Licensed family childcare homes are a cornerstone of the daycare system in smaller communities like Dexter. They are quite common and often have more immediate openings than larger centers in nearby Austin. Advantages include a home-like setting with mixed-age groups, which can be beneficial for siblings, and often more flexible hours to accommodate agricultural or shift work common in the area. These providers are typically deeply embedded in the community, offering personalized care. To find them, check the DHS lookup tool, ask for recommendations at local hubs like the Dexter Creamery or the community bulletin board, or connect with the "Mower County Childcare Providers" network on social media.
What is the current waitlist situation for daycare centers in and around Dexter, MN?
Due to high demand and limited supply, waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Dexter and the broader Mower County region are common, especially for infant care. It is not unusual for waitlists to be 6 to 12 months long. For the closest centers in Austin (about a 10-15 minute drive), waitlists may be slightly shorter but still significant. The best strategy is to get on multiple lists as early as possible, even during pregnancy. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family daycare homes in Dexter, as they may have more frequent turnover and shorter waits. Persistence and regular follow-up calls are key.
What unique seasonal or community-based childcare resources are available to parents in Dexter?
Dexter offers several community-specific resources. During the summer, the Dexter Community Education program often hosts recreational day camps for school-age children. For younger children, local churches may offer seasonal Parents' Day Out programs or vacation bible school, which can provide short-term care. For school-year support, the Dexter Public Schools district provides School-Age Care (SAC) programs for before and after school, which is a critical resource for working parents. Additionally, networking with other parents through the Dexter Community Facebook page or local events like the Labor Day celebration can lead to discovering shared nanny arrangements or babysitting co-ops, which are valuable in a tight-knit community.