The Best Daycare Centers in Fountain, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Fountain. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Fountain
Fountain City Preschool & Childcare
Independent
Fountain City Preschool & Childcare is a highly-regarded local facility serving the Fountain community with comprehensive early childhood programs. The center features a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation, focusing on social-emotional development and kindergarten readiness. Their qualified teaching staff maintains low student-teacher ratios, with all lead teachers holding early childhood education credentials. The facility includes secure indoor learning environments, age-appropriate outdoor play areas, and nutritious meal programs. Parents consistently praise the center's family-like atmosphere, experienced staff, and strong communication about child development progress.
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Harmony Kids Corner
Independent
Located in nearby Harmony, this highly-rated childcare center serves families throughout Fillmore County including Fountain. Harmony Kids Corner offers a comprehensive early childhood curriculum emphasizing literacy development, STEM exploration, and creative arts. The center features secure, modern facilities with dedicated infant rooms, toddler learning centers, and preschool classrooms. Their team includes experienced early childhood educators with ongoing professional development. The program includes outdoor nature exploration, family engagement events, and transportation services for school-age children. Safety protocols exceed state requirements with secure entry systems and comprehensive background checks for all staff.
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Rochester Montessori School - Fountain Satellite Program
Rochester Montessori Schools
As part of the respected Rochester Montessori network, this program serves families in the Fountain region with authentic Montessori education from infancy through elementary years. The center features AMI-certified teachers and carefully prepared classroom environments that foster independence, concentration, and love of learning. Their infant and toddler programs focus on developmental milestones through purposeful movement and language development, while preschool and elementary programs offer comprehensive academic foundations. The facility includes beautiful outdoor classrooms, natural play spaces, and enrichment programs in music, art, and foreign languages. Transportation services are available for Fountain-area families, making this prestigious program accessible to rural communities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Fountain, MN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Fountain, MN, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Fountain and the surrounding Fillmore County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $175 to $225 per week, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging $150 to $200 per week. These costs can vary based on the type of provider (in-home vs. center-based) and the specific services offered. For financial assistance, Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is the primary resource for eligible families based on income and household size. Additionally, local organizations like the Fillmore County Family Services office can provide guidance and applications. It's also worth checking with individual providers, as some may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees based on income.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Fountain is licensed and in good standing with Minnesota state regulations?
All licensed childcare providers in Minnesota, including those in Fountain, are regulated by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS). You can verify a provider's license and review their compliance history through the DHS online Licensing Information Lookup tool. This public database shows the provider's license status, capacity, any serious licensing violations (called "corrective actions"), and the dates of their last inspections. You can also contact the DHS Licensing Division directly. For added peace of mind, you can ask the provider to see their current license certificate, which must be posted in a visible location at their facility.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers or in-home providers in Fountain, and what's the best way to secure a spot?
Due to the smaller, rural nature of Fountain, licensed childcare slots can be limited, and it's common for reputable providers, especially infant care spots, to have waitlists of several months. The best strategy is to start your search early—ideally during pregnancy or 6-9 months before you need care. Contact providers directly to inquire about availability and get on their waitlist, which may involve a small fee. Networking with other parents in the community through local Facebook groups (e.g., "Fountain, MN Community") or contacting the Fillmore County Public Health department for referrals can also help you discover lesser-known or newly licensed in-home providers.
What are the options for before and after-school care for school-age children in the Fountain area?
For school-age children attending Fountain Elementary (part of Fillmore Central School District), structured before and after-school care programs are limited directly in Fountain. However, many licensed family childcare homes in the area offer before and after-school care, including transportation to and from the school bus stop or directly to the school. Some parents also form small, shared nanny arrangements or utilize in-home babysitters. For more structured programs, you may need to look at providers in nearby towns like Preston or Harmony, which may offer transportation from Fountain. Coordinating with other local parents for a carpool can expand your options.
What unique factors should I consider when choosing an in-home daycare versus a center in a small town like Fountain?
In a close-knit community like Fountain, the choice often comes down to personal preference and logistics. In-home family childcare is more common and may offer a home-like environment, mixed-age groups (which can be good for siblings), and potentially more flexible hours. Centers, while less common in the immediate area, offer structured curricula and multiple staff. Key considerations include: **Transportation**—centers are likely in neighboring towns; **Backup Care**—in-home providers may take personal days or vacations, so ask about their backup plans; **Community Reputation**—in a small town, ask other parents and neighbors for firsthand experiences; and **Licensing**—ensure any in-home provider is licensed, as unregistered care is more prevalent in rural areas. Visiting both types in the local context is crucial.