The Best Daycare Centers in Fairfax, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Fairfax. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Fairfax
Fairfax Early Learning Center
Independent
Fairfax Early Learning Center is a highly-regarded local childcare facility serving the Fairfax community with comprehensive early childhood education programs. The center employs state-licensed early childhood educators who implement a play-based learning curriculum focused on social-emotional development, literacy, and kindergarten readiness. Features include secure entry systems, nutritious meal programs, and age-appropriate learning environments with dedicated infant, toddler, and preschool classrooms. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and emphasizes individualized attention for each child's developmental needs. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, clean facilities, and strong communication about their child's progress and daily activities.
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New Horizons Childcare & Preschool
Independent
Located in nearby Redwood Falls (approximately 15 miles from Fairfax), New Horizons Childcare & Preschool serves families throughout Renville and Redwood counties with a comprehensive early education program. The center features a structured curriculum that balances academic preparation with creative expression and physical development. Qualified early childhood teachers implement age-appropriate learning activities in well-equipped classrooms with modern educational materials. Safety protocols include secure access systems, regular safety drills, and thorough staff background checks. The facility offers both full-time and part-time care options with flexible scheduling to meet family needs. Parent reviews highlight the center's engaging learning environment and experienced, dedicated teaching staff.
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New Ulf Childcare Center
Independent
Serving the broader regional area including Fairfax families (approximately 25 miles away), New Ulm Childcare Center is a well-established facility with nearly two decades of operation. The center employs degreed early childhood educators who implement a research-based curriculum emphasizing literacy, STEM exploration, and social skills development. The facility features secure indoor and outdoor play areas, modern classroom technology, and specialized learning centers for different age groups. The center maintains excellent state licensing compliance records and offers nutritional meal programs meeting USDA guidelines. Parents consistently rate the center highly for its professional staff, comprehensive educational approach, and nurturing environment that supports children's holistic development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Fairfax, MN
What are the typical costs for daycare in Fairfax, MN, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Fairfax and the surrounding Martin County area, 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, with rates slightly lower for toddlers and preschoolers. Center-based care is less common locally but may be found in nearby larger towns at a higher weekly rate. Minnesota offers several financial assistance programs. The most relevant is the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), administered by Martin County Human Services. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or education). Additionally, local providers may offer sibling discounts. It's highly recommended to contact the Martin County Family Services office or visit the Minnesota Department of Human Services website to apply for CCAP before finalizing your childcare arrangement.
How can I find and verify licensed childcare providers in Fairfax, MN?
The State of Minnesota requires all non-relatives providing care for more than one unrelated family to be licensed. To find licensed providers in Fairfax, your primary resource is the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) "Find a Child Care Provider" online search tool. You can filter by city (Fairfax), zip code (55332), and type of care (Family Child Care or Center). This tool provides licensing status, capacity, and any recorded licensing actions. For local word-of-mouth recommendations, the Fairfax community is tight-knit; checking with the Fairfax Public Schools early childhood staff, local churches, or community Facebook groups can yield personal referrals. Always verify a provider's current license by asking to see their DHS-issued license certificate and checking for the required postings of rules and emergency plans in their home.
Are waitlists common for daycare in Fairfax, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the smaller number of providers in a rural community like Fairfax, waitlists for high-quality, licensed family childcare homes can be common, especially for infant spots, which have very low provider-to-child ratios. It is advisable to begin your search at least 3-6 months before you need care, and if you are expecting a child, to start inquiring during your second trimester. Some providers maintain a consistent waitlist, while others may have openings more sporadically. Be proactive: contact multiple providers, ask to be placed on their waitlist, and check in periodically. Don't overlook providers in neighboring towns like Gibbon, Winthrop, or Redwood Falls, as a short commute may be necessary to secure a spot.
What are the options for school-age childcare in Fairfax, particularly before/after school and during the summer?
For school-age children attending Fairfax Public Schools (ISD 497), the district itself may offer a Community Education program that includes before and after-school care, often held at the school. This is a convenient and popular option. You should contact the Fairfax Public Schools district office directly for current program availability, schedules, and fees. During the summer, options become more limited. Some local family childcare providers accept school-age children for full-day summer care. Additionally, the City of Fairfax may offer summer recreation programs or day camps, which can provide partial-day activities. Planning for summer care should begin in the early spring, as spots fill quickly.
What specific questions should I ask a potential daycare provider in Fairfax, given the rural setting?
Beyond standard questions about curriculum and daily routines, parents in Fairfax should ask location-specific questions. Inquire about their emergency preparedness plan for severe weather common to southern Minnesota (tornadoes, blizzards) and their policy for transportation/school drop-offs if applicable. Ask about their outdoor play space and how they handle farm safety if the home is near agricultural operations. Given the community's demographics, you might ask if they participate in the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program, which ensures nutritious meals. Also, clarify their policies for local school closure days (e.g., "cold days") and whether they provide care. Finally, ask for references from other local families to get a sense of their reputation and reliability within the small community.