The Best Daycare Centers in Emily, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Emily. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Emily
Emily Cooperative Preschool
Emily Cooperative Preschool
Emily Cooperative Preschool is a community-based early childhood education center that emphasizes play-based learning and parent involvement. The center follows a developmentally appropriate curriculum that focuses on social-emotional development, early literacy, and kindergarten readiness. With low student-teacher ratios and qualified early childhood educators, the program offers a nurturing environment where children learn through hands-on activities, creative play, and outdoor exploration. The cooperative model encourages strong parent-teacher partnerships and community engagement, making it a trusted choice for families in the Emily area.
Daycare Services:
New Horizon Academy - Crosby
New Horizon Academy
New Horizon Academy in Crosby is part of a respected regional childcare network serving the Emily area with comprehensive early childhood programs. The center features a research-based curriculum that includes STEM activities, literacy development, and social skills building. Their highly qualified staff maintains low teacher-child ratios and participates in ongoing professional development. The facility includes secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and modern classrooms equipped with educational materials. With nutritious meal programs and extended hours, this center provides reliable, high-quality care for working families throughout the Brainerd Lakes region.
Daycare Services:
Little Blessings Childcare & Preschool
Little Blessings Childcare
Little Blessings Childcare & Preschool in Brainerd serves families throughout the greater Emily area with a comprehensive early childhood program that balances academic preparation and Christian values. The center offers age-appropriate curricula including Creative Curriculum for younger children and a structured preschool program focusing on literacy, mathematics, and social development. Their experienced teaching staff holds early childhood credentials and maintains small class sizes for individualized attention. The facility features secure environments, modern learning centers, and outdoor play areas designed for different age groups. Parents appreciate the strong communication, consistent routines, and nurturing atmosphere that supports children's holistic development.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Emily, MN
What are the typical costs for daycare in Emily, MN, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Emily, MN, daycare costs vary based on the child's age and the type of care. For a licensed family childcare home, you can expect to pay approximately $150-$225 per week for full-time infant care, while toddler care may range from $130-$200 per week. Center-based care in nearby larger towns like Crosby or Brainerd tends to be higher, often $200-$300+ per week. Minnesota offers several financial assistance programs. Locally, you can apply for the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) through Crow Wing County Community Services, which helps eligible families pay for childcare. Additionally, the Minnesota Department of Revenue offers a Child and Dependent Care Credit on state taxes. It's recommended to contact the Crow Wing County Human Services office directly for the most current eligibility guidelines and application process.
How do I verify if a daycare provider in Emily is properly licensed, and what are Minnesota's key licensing requirements?
All licensed childcare providers in Emily, MN, are regulated by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS). You can verify a provider's license status and view any past licensing actions through the DHS online "License Lookup" tool. Key state requirements for licensure include: background studies for all household members and staff, annual training in Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID), Abusive Head Trauma, and CPR/First Aid certification. Providers must also meet specific ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:7 for toddlers in family settings) and follow health, safety, and nutritional standards. In Emily's more rural setting, many options are licensed family childcare homes, which are inspected regularly. Always ask the provider for their license number and feel free to check their record.
Given Emily's rural location, what are the main types of childcare options available, and how long are typical waitlists?
Emily, being a smaller, rural community, primarily offers licensed family childcare homes operated out of a provider's residence. These are often the most accessible and may provide a home-like setting with mixed-age groups. There are also a limited number of licensed childcare centers, though you may need to look in neighboring communities like Outing, Crosby, or Brainerd (a 20-30 minute drive) for more center-based options. Due to limited slots, waitlists are common, especially for infant care. It's not unusual for popular providers in the Emily area to have waitlists of 3 to 9 months. We strongly recommend starting your search during pregnancy or at least 6 months before you need care. Networking through local Facebook groups (e.g., "Emily, MN Community") can also help find smaller in-home providers who may not advertise widely.
Are there any unique seasonal or part-time childcare considerations for families in Emily, given its proximity to lakes and seasonal tourism?
Yes, Emily's location in the heart of the lakes area creates unique childcare patterns. Many families involved in seasonal tourism or resort work may need part-time or variable-hour childcare during the busy summer months (May-September). Conversely, some providers may have reduced hours or close for vacations in the winter. It's crucial to discuss your specific seasonal needs upfront with providers. Some family childcare homes may offer flexible "drop-in" or part-week schedules to accommodate shift workers. Additionally, the Emily Public Library and the surrounding community centers sometimes offer seasonal preschool or summer camp programs for older toddlers and preschoolers, which can supplement care. Planning ahead is key, as summer slots fill quickly.
What should I look for and ask about during a daycare tour specifically in a small town like Emily?
When touring a daycare in Emily, beyond general questions about curriculum and daily routines, ask location-specific questions. Inquire about their plan for severe weather, given Minnesota's winters and the rural setting—how do they handle snow days or power outages? Ask about outdoor play and nature-based activities, leveraging the beautiful natural environment. For family homes, understand how they integrate their own family life into the daycare day. Verify their transportation and field trip policies, as trips might be to local parks or the Emily Public Library. Given the tight-knit community, ask for references from other local families you might know. Finally, discuss their communication style; in a small town, word-of-mouth is strong, but ensure they have a reliable method (e.g., daily sheets, app) for direct updates.