The Best Daycare Centers in Foley, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Foley. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Foley
Little Saints Academy - Sartell
Little Saints Academy
Little Saints Academy is a highly-regarded childcare center serving the Foley area with a comprehensive educational approach. They offer a structured curriculum that includes STEAM activities, literacy development, and faith-based values integration. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Teachers hold early childhood education degrees and maintain low student-to-teacher ratios. The center is known for its strong parent communication system, nutritious meal program, and emphasis on social-emotional development. Their extended hours and summer camp programs make them a popular choice for working families in the region.
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Kiddie Korner Child Care & Preschool
Kiddie Korner
Kiddie Korner provides quality childcare services to families in the Foley area with a focus on developmental milestones and school readiness. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum elements with hands-on learning activities, literacy programs, and mathematics foundations. The center features secure facilities with camera monitoring, dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, and structured outdoor play spaces. Staff members maintain CPR and First Aid certifications with ongoing professional development. Parents appreciate the daily communication through the Brightwheel app, consistent routines, and the center's commitment to creating a nurturing, inclusive environment for all children.
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New Horizon Academy - St. Cloud
New Horizon Academy
As Minnesota's largest childcare provider with locations serving the Foley area, New Horizon Academy brings decades of early childhood education expertise. Their research-based curriculum focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills development through play-based learning. The St. Cloud location features state-of-the-art security systems, age-appropriate learning centers, and spacious outdoor playgrounds. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education, and the center maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios. The program includes healthy meals and snacks, regular developmental assessments, and strong parent partnerships. Their comprehensive approach and long-standing reputation make them a trusted choice for central Minnesota families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Foley, MN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Foley, MN, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Foley and the surrounding Benton County area, full-time daycare for an infant or toddler typically ranges from $175 to $250 per week. Preschool programs for 3-5 year-olds are often slightly less, averaging $150 to $220 per week. These costs can vary based on the type of provider (in-home vs. center-based), the specific program offerings, and the age of your child. For financial assistance, Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is the primary resource for eligible families, administered locally through Benton County Human Services. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's also worth checking with employers in the area, such as those in St. Cloud or local manufacturing, as some may offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).
How can I find and verify licensed childcare providers in Foley, and what should I look for during a tour?
The best resource to find licensed providers is Minnesota's Department of Human Services (DHS) "Find Child Care" online search tool, which allows you to filter by location (Foley, MN 56329), type of care, and age of child. All licensed providers in Foley must meet state standards for health, safety, and staff training. When touring a facility, whether it's a family child care home or a center, look for: a valid license posted, clean and safe environments with secure outdoor play areas, age-appropriate toys and learning materials, and a low child-to-staff ratio. Ask about their daily schedule, discipline policy, and emergency procedures. In Foley, also consider practicalities like their policy on school closure days for the local Foley Public Schools, as this affects care for school-age children.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Foley, and how far in advance should I start looking for care?
Yes, waitlists are common, especially for infant care slots and at the more established centers in Foley. Due to the smaller number of providers compared to larger cities, availability can be limited. It is strongly recommended to begin your search at least 6 to 9 months before you need care, and if you are expecting, to get on lists during your second trimester. For popular preschool programs that follow the school year, inquiries should be made by January or February for a fall start. When contacting providers, ask specifically about their waitlist process: if there's a fee, how often you should check in, and estimated timeline. Exploring options in nearby communities like Sartell or St. Cloud can provide more alternatives, though this adds commute considerations.
What are the options for school-age childcare in Foley, particularly before/after school and during summer?
For school-age children attending Foley Public Schools, the district itself often operates a School Age Care (SAC) program at the elementary school(s), providing before and after-school care on-site. This is a convenient and popular option. Additionally, several licensed family child care homes in Foley offer school-age slots and may provide transportation to/from school. During the summer, these same providers, along with the Foley Community Education and Recreation department, typically offer full-day summer camp or childcare programs. These local summer programs often incorporate field trips, swimming at the Foley Pool, and activities at Foley's parks. It's crucial to register early for summer care, as spaces fill quickly.
How does Minnesota's "Parent Aware" rating system work, and are there rated providers in the Foley area?
Parent Aware is Minnesota's voluntary quality rating and improvement system for early childhood programs. Ratings range from 1 to 4 stars, with higher stars indicating a program uses best practices in early learning and school readiness. While not all Foley providers are rated, seeking a rated provider is a great way to identify quality. You can search for rated programs on the Parent Aware website. A 3 or 4-star rating means the program has a structured curriculum, trained teachers, and regular assessments of child development. Families using a 3- or 4-star program may also be eligible for the state's Early Learning Scholarship, which can significantly reduce childcare costs. Several providers in and around Foley participate in this system, so it's a valuable filter in your search.
Childcare Insights for Foley
Finding the right daycare center for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. If you’re searching for a “daycare center near me” in Foley, Minnesota, you’re likely looking for a place that feels like a second home—a nurturing environment where your little one can learn, play, and grow while you’re at work. The good news is that Foley and the surrounding Benton County area offer several wonderful options, each with its own unique approach to early childhood education. The key is finding the one that aligns best with your family’s values, schedule, and your child’s individual needs.
When beginning your search in Foley, consider what matters most to you. Are you looking for a structured preschool curriculum, a focus on outdoor play, or perhaps a faith-based program? Many local centers offer tours, and taking the time to visit is invaluable. Pay attention to the atmosphere: do the children seem engaged and happy? Is the space clean, safe, and stimulating? Don’t hesitate to ask about staff qualifications and turnover rates; consistent, well-trained caregivers are crucial for your child’s sense of security. In a community like Foley, you’ll often find that providers are deeply connected to the area, understanding the rhythms of local life and often participating in community events, which can add a lovely layer of familiarity for your family.
Practical logistics are especially important in our region. Given Minnesota’s distinct seasons, inquire about the center’s policies for outdoor time. A great daycare will have plans for safe summer play and ways to get the wiggles out during our long winters, whether through indoor gross motor spaces or appropriate outdoor gear for colder days. Also, consider your commute. A center conveniently located near your home, your workplace, or along your regular route through Foley can make daily drop-offs and pick-ups significantly less stressful. It’s also wise to ask about flexibility for the occasional early drop-off or late pickup, understanding that farming schedules or shifts at local employers can sometimes run long.
Finally, trust your community connections. Talk to other parents at the park, the library, or local shops. Personal recommendations in a tight-knit town like Foley are gold. You can also reach out to local resources like the United Way of Benton County or Minnesota’s Parent Aware rating system, which can help you identify quality-rated programs. Remember, the right daycare center in Foley won’t just care for your child; it will become a partner in your parenting journey. It’s a place where your child will make their first friends, celebrate local traditions, and build the foundation for a lifelong love of learning, all within the supportive fabric of our community. Take a deep breath, trust your instincts, and know that a welcoming and reliable childcare solution is here for you.