The Best Daycare Centers in Elizabeth, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Elizabeth. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Elizabeth
New Horizons Preschool & Childcare
New Horizons Preschool & Childcare
New Horizons Preschool & Childcare is a highly-regarded facility serving the Elizabeth area with a comprehensive educational approach. They employ Minnesota-licensed teachers and maintain low student-to-teacher ratios. The curriculum focuses on developmental milestones through play-based learning, structured academic preparation, and social-emotional development. Their facility features secure access systems, modern classrooms, and age-appropriate outdoor play areas. They offer nutritious meal programs and emphasize parent communication through daily updates and regular conferences. Special programs include music education, STEM activities, and seasonal events that engage families from the broader region.
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Growing Years Childcare Center
Growing Years Childcare Center
Growing Years Childcare Center serves families throughout the region with a research-based curriculum that balances academic readiness and social development. Their staff includes early childhood education specialists with CPR and first aid certification. The center features secure entry systems, comprehensive safety protocols, and developmentally appropriate learning environments. Their program includes literacy development, mathematics concepts, science exploration, and creative arts. They maintain strong parent partnerships through regular communication, portfolio assessments, and family engagement events. The center is known for its inclusive environment and flexible scheduling options for working families.
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Kid Zone Daycare & Preschool
Kid Zone Daycare & Preschool
Kid Zone Daycare & Preschool provides quality early childhood education with a focus on individualized learning plans and whole-child development. Their qualified teaching staff creates engaging learning centers that promote cognitive, physical, and social growth. The facility includes secure indoor environments and safe outdoor playgrounds with age-appropriate equipment. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum elements with supplemental literacy and math programs. Safety is prioritized through strict pick-up procedures, regular safety drills, and comprehensive staff training. The center offers extended hours to accommodate families' schedules and serves nutritious meals meeting USDA guidelines. Parent involvement is encouraged through classroom volunteering and regular progress updates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Elizabeth, MN
What types of licensed childcare options are available for families in Elizabeth, MN?
In Elizabeth, MN, parents have several licensed childcare options. The primary types are licensed family childcare homes, which are smaller, home-based settings typically caring for up to 10 children, and licensed childcare centers, which are larger facilities. Given Elizabeth's smaller, rural community, family childcare homes are a very common and popular choice, offering a home-like environment. All licensed providers in Minnesota must meet state health, safety, and developmental standards set by the Department of Human Services (DHS). You can search for all licensed providers in and around Elizabeth using the Minnesota DHS online "Child Care Finder" tool, which is an essential resource for local parents.
How much does full-time childcare typically cost in Elizabeth, and are there financial assistance programs available?
Childcare costs in Elizabeth, MN, are generally lower than in larger Minnesota metro areas but can vary based on the provider type and the child's age. For a full-time slot in a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $150-$225 per week for an infant/toddler. Childcare centers, if available nearby, may be slightly higher. The Minnesota Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is a key resource for eligible families in Otter Tail County to help offset these costs. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. You can apply through the Otter Tail County Human Services department. Additionally, some providers may offer sibling discounts.
Are there long waitlists for childcare in Elizabeth, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of providers in a smaller community like Elizabeth, waitlists are common, especially for infant care which has stricter staff-to-child ratios. It is highly recommended to begin your search during pregnancy, ideally 6-9 months before your needed start date. When contacting providers, be sure to ask directly about their current waitlist length, their policy for securing a spot (e.g., a deposit), and how often they update availability. Being flexible with your start date can improve your chances. Don't hesitate to also explore options in nearby towns like Fergus Falls if necessary, as commuting for childcare is a reality for many rural families.
What should I look for when visiting and evaluating a daycare provider in Elizabeth?
Beyond checking the provider's current Minnesota DHS license, which should be visibly posted, there are several local factors to consider. First, observe the environment: Is it clean, safe, and engaging for children? Ask about their daily schedule, philosophy on learning and play, and policies on outdoor time—important in our rural setting. Inquire about their emergency plans for severe weather common to Minnesota. Ask for references from other local parents. Crucially, trust your instincts on the caregiver's interaction with the children and their communication style. Given the close-knit nature of Elizabeth, a provider's reputation in the community is also a valuable indicator.
What resources are available in Otter Tail County to help me find and choose quality childcare near Elizabeth?
Your most valuable local resource is the Child Care Aware of Minnesota referral agency that serves Otter Tail County. They offer free, personalized referrals to licensed providers, help understanding Minnesota's quality ratings (Parent Aware), and guidance on what to look for. You can contact them via their statewide phone line or website. Additionally, the Otter Tail County Public Health department may have information on local early childhood resources. For networking, consider asking for recommendations in local community spaces like the Elizabeth Community Church or the Elizabeth City Hall, as word-of-mouth is powerful in small towns. Online community Facebook groups for Elizabeth and Otter Tail County are also frequently used by parents to share childcare leads.