The Best Daycare Centers in Dover, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Dover. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Dover
KinderCare Learning Center at Rochester North
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare at Rochester North is a highly-rated childcare center serving the Dover area with a comprehensive early childhood education program. They utilize a research-based curriculum focused on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development through play-based learning. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, with all lead teachers holding early childhood education credentials and ongoing professional development. Safety is prioritized with secured entry systems, regular safety drills, and strict hygiene protocols. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and nutritious meal programs. Parent communication is enhanced through daily updates and regular progress reports, making it a trusted choice for families seeking developmental-focused care.
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Primrose School of Rochester
Primrose Schools Franchising Company
Primrose School of Rochester offers a balanced learning approach that blends teacher-directed and child-initiated activities, serving families in Dover and surrounding areas. Their accredited Balanced Learning® curriculum emphasizes character development, literacy, and STEM skills, with dedicated spaces for art, music, and physical activity. The center maintains high safety standards with keypad entry, background-checked staff, and health screenings. Teachers are qualified with degrees in early childhood education and receive continuous training. The facility features bright classrooms, interactive technology, and expansive outdoor play areas. Parent involvement is encouraged through events and real-time communication apps, contributing to its excellent reputation for nurturing well-rounded development.
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The Goddard School of Rochester
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Rochester provides a play-based F.L.E.X. Learning Program that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and social skills, making it a top choice for Dover residents. The curriculum is tailored to individual learning styles and includes enrichment activities in languages, yoga, and music. Safety is ensured through 24/7 monitored security cameras, emergency preparedness plans, and sanitized environments. All teachers are certified in early childhood education and participate in ongoing professional development. The school features modern classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and a focus on holistic development. High parent satisfaction stems from transparent communication, regular assessments, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Dover, MN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Dover, MN?
In Dover and the surrounding Olmsted County area, full-time daycare costs can vary based on the type of provider. Licensed family childcare homes typically range from $175 to $225 per week for infants/toddlers. Larger licensed childcare centers in nearby Rochester may charge between $225 and $300 per week. Costs in Dover itself tend to be on the lower end of these ranges due to its smaller, rural setting. It's important to note that Minnesota offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families, and some providers may offer sibling discounts. Always ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, and supplies.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Dover is licensed and in good standing with the state?
Minnesota law requires most childcare providers to be licensed. To verify a provider in Dover, you should use the online "Look Up a License" tool on the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) website. This public database shows the provider's license status, capacity, age ranges served, and any serious licensing violations or corrective actions. You can also contact the DHS Licensing Division for the Southeast Region, which oversees Olmsted County. Additionally, it's highly recommended to visit the facility in person, ask for references from other parents, and review the provider's latest licensing report, which they are required to make available.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Dover, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common for both licensed family childcare homes and centers in Dover and the greater Rochester region. Due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, it is strongly advised to begin your search at least 6 to 12 months before you need care. Many popular providers have waitlists that are a year long. When contacting providers, ask specifically about their waitlist process: if there's a fee to be placed on it, how often they update families on their position, and if they offer guaranteed enrollment. Exploring multiple options, including providers in nearby towns like Byron or St. Charles, can increase your chances of finding an opening sooner.
What are the options for part-time or drop-in childcare in Dover, MN?
Part-time and drop-in care can be challenging to find in a small community like Dover. Most licensed family childcare homes and centers prioritize full-time enrollments to maintain stable income and staffing. However, some family providers may offer part-time schedules (e.g., 2-3 days a week) if they have availability. For occasional drop-in care, your best options are typically in Rochester, which has a few drop-in childcare centers. Another resource is to inquire with local churches or community organizations in Dover that may host parent-day-out programs or seasonal camps. Networking with other parents through local Facebook groups can sometimes lead to shared nanny arrangements or recommendations for flexible providers.
What unique factors should I consider when choosing a daycare in a rural area like Dover compared to a city?
Choosing daycare in rural Dover involves several specific considerations. First, **transportation and distance** are key; you'll need to evaluate the provider's location relative to your home, workplace, and backup plans for pickup/dropoff. Second, **emergency preparedness** is crucial; ask about their plan for severe weather (like blizzards common in Minnesota), power outages, and how they handle medical emergencies given potentially longer EMS response times. Third, **enrichment opportunities** may differ; while a home-based setting offers a family-like environment, inquire about how they facilitate socialization with other children and access to activities like library visits or outdoor play. Finally, check their **communication methods**, as reliable cell service or internet can be inconsistent in some rural parts of Olmsted County.