The Best Daycare Centers in Franklin, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Franklin. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Franklin
KinderCare Learning Center - Olivia
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare in Olivia is a highly-rated childcare center serving the Franklin area with a research-based curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math, and social-emotional development. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, state-licensed educators with CPR and First Aid certifications, and secure facilities with keypad entry. Programs include age-appropriate learning activities, nutritious meal plans, and outdoor play spaces. Parent communication is prioritized through daily reports and regular conferences, contributing to strong satisfaction ratings and a reputation for nurturing child development in a safe, inclusive environment.
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New Horizons Child Care - Redwood Falls
New Horizons Child Care Inc.
New Horizons Child Care in Redwood Falls provides comprehensive early childhood education services to families in the Franklin region, featuring a play-based curriculum that integrates STEM activities, arts, and literacy. The center employs qualified staff with degrees in early childhood education and maintains rigorous safety protocols, including background checks and emergency drills. Facilities include modern classrooms, shaded outdoor play areas, and on-site kitchens serving healthy meals. With a focus on individualized learning and parent partnerships, the center has built a strong track record for fostering developmental milestones and school readiness.
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Franklin Child Development Center
Independent
Franklin Child Development Center is a local, community-focused facility offering personalized care with a emphasis on hands-on learning and social skills development. The curriculum blends Montessori-inspired activities with structured play, supported by experienced teachers who participate in ongoing professional development. Safety is prioritized through secure entry systems, regular cleanliness audits, and small group sizes. The center features indoor learning centers and outdoor playgrounds, and emphasizes family involvement through open houses and progress updates. Its long-standing presence in Franklin reflects a commitment to high-quality, accessible childcare.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Franklin, MN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Franklin, MN?
In Franklin and the surrounding Renville County area, full-time daycare costs are generally lower than in major Minnesota metro areas but can vary based on the type of provider. For a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $150 to $225 per week per child. Licensed childcare centers, which are less common in smaller towns like Franklin, may range from $200 to $275 per week. It's important to note that these rates are often all-inclusive (meals, snacks, activities). To help with costs, Minnesota offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families, and you can apply through the Renville County Human Services department. Always ask providers for a detailed breakdown of what's included.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Franklin is properly licensed and check their compliance history?
All licensed childcare providers in Minnesota are regulated by the Department of Human Services (DHS). You can verify a provider's license and review their history online through the Minnesota DHS Licensing Information Lookup tool. Simply enter the provider's name or license number. This report will show their license status, capacity, any serious licensing violations (called "corrective actions"), and the dates of their last inspections. For Franklin specifically, you can also contact the Renville County Public Health or Social Services offices for local referrals and information. Always visit a potential provider in person and ask to see their current license certificate, which must be posted.
Are there long waitlists for daycare spots in Franklin, and what's the best way to secure a spot?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small, rural community like Franklin, waitlists are common, especially for infant care and year-round spots. It's not unusual for popular family childcare homes to have a waitlist of 6 to 12 months. The best strategy is to start your search early—ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. Contact multiple providers to get on their lists. Be proactive: check in every few months to confirm your spot on the list and express continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to nearby towns like Olivia, Bird Island, or Redwood Falls, but factor in the commute.
What types of childcare settings are most common in Franklin, and what are the key differences?
The most common type in Franklin is the licensed family childcare home, where care is provided in the provider's residence. These are often smaller, home-like environments with mixed-age groups. Licensed childcare centers are less prevalent in towns of Franklin's size but may be found through larger employers or churches. Another option is a legally unlicensed (but registered) family childcare provider, who can care for one family's children plus one other unrelated family. The key differences are in group size, setting, and often, program structure. Family homes offer more flexibility and a family setting, while centers (if available) may have more structured curricula and multiple staff. Your choice will depend on your child's needs and your schedule.
What resources are available in Franklin, MN, to help me find and choose a quality childcare provider?
Your primary local resource is **First Children's Finance - Minnesota**, which partners with local agencies. You can use their online referral search at **MNChildCare.com** and filter for Franklin and Renville County. For personalized help, contact the **Southwest Minnesota Opportunity Council (SMOC)** Child Care Resource and Referral program, which serves our region. They can provide free referrals, information on quality indicators, and guidance on what to look for during a visit. Additionally, the **Franklin Public School** district's community education office may have information on preschool and school-age care programs. Always schedule visits, ask for references from current parents, and trust your instincts about the environment.