The Best Daycare Centers in Elko New Market, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Elko New Market. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Elko New Market
The Goddard School of Lakeville
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Lakeville offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social-emotional development. All teachers are highly qualified with degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. The school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and provides regular parent communication through daily reports and an interactive mobile app.
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New Horizon Academy - Lakeville
New Horizon Academy
New Horizon Academy in Lakeville provides comprehensive early childhood education with a research-based curriculum that includes literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, camera monitoring, and rigorous safety protocols. Their highly-trained teachers implement age-appropriate learning activities and maintain detailed developmental portfolios for each child. The academy offers nutritious meals and snacks, spacious indoor and outdoor play areas, and flexible scheduling options to meet family needs.
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Little Scholars Child Development Center
Little Scholars Child Development Center
Little Scholars Child Development Center offers a balanced educational approach combining structured learning with play-based activities. Their curriculum emphasizes early literacy, mathematics, science exploration, and character development. The center features modern, clean facilities with secure access, age-specific learning centers, and large outdoor playgrounds. Teachers are certified in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and provides regular progress updates to parents through digital portfolios and parent-teacher conferences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Elko New Market, MN
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Elko New Market, MN?
In Elko New Market, parents primarily have access to licensed family childcare homes and childcare centers. Family childcare homes are smaller, home-based settings typically caring for up to 10 children, offering a more intimate, family-like environment. Childcare centers are larger facilities, often located in commercial or dedicated buildings, which may offer more structured programs and extended hours. Due to Elko New Market's smaller, semi-rural community character, family childcare homes are a very common and popular option. All providers must be licensed by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS), which sets standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, and program activities. You can search for licensed providers in Scott County, which includes Elko New Market, on the Minnesota DHS online licensing lookup tool.
How much does full-time childcare typically cost in Elko New Market, and are there financial assistance programs?
Costs in Elko New Market are generally in line with the broader Twin Cities metro area but can be slightly lower than in larger urban cores. For an infant, you can expect to pay approximately $1,400 to $1,800 per month at a center and $900 to $1,300 per month in a licensed family childcare home. Rates decrease slightly for toddlers and preschoolers. Financial assistance is available through Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which is administered by Scott County. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and need (such as employment or education). Additionally, many providers participate in the state's Early Learning Scholarships program for 3- and 4-year-olds. It's crucial to apply for assistance early, as processing can take time.
Are daycare waitlists common in Elko New Market, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common, especially for infant care slots and at highly sought-after centers or family childcare providers. Elko New Market is a growing community, and the demand for quality childcare often exceeds immediate availability. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search at least 6 to 9 months before their needed start date, and for infant care, even earlier—up to a year in advance. When touring facilities, always ask about their current waitlist length and policy. Some providers may charge a small fee to hold a spot on their list. Being proactive and getting on multiple lists can significantly increase your chances of securing a spot when you need it.
What should I look for during a daycare tour specific to providers in this area?
Beyond universal checks for cleanliness, safety, and caregiver engagement, consider factors specific to the Elko New Market community. Ask about their policies for outdoor play and nature exploration, given the area's access to open spaces. Inquire about their plan for severe weather, as the region experiences harsh winters and occasional summer storms—how do they handle late pickups if roads are bad? For family childcare homes, understand their backup plan if the provider is sick. Also, ask about their connection to the local community; do they participate in local library programs or visits to nearby parks? Finally, verify their license is current and ask to see the most recent DHS licensing review report, which details any compliance issues.
How does Minnesota's "Parent Aware" rating system work, and are there rated providers in Elko New Market?
Parent Aware is Minnesota's voluntary quality rating and improvement system for early childhood programs. Ratings range from One Star (meeting licensing standards) to Four Stars (excellence in preparing children for kindergarten). A higher rating indicates a program uses research-based best practices in early learning. While not all providers participate, seeking a rated provider is a great way to identify quality. You can search for Parent Aware rated programs in the 55375 zip code or Scott County on the Parent Aware website. Several providers in and around Elko New Market participate. Choosing a rated program may also make you eligible for additional funding, like Early Learning Scholarships, to help offset the cost of care for 3- and 4-year-olds.