The Best Daycare Centers in Frazee, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Frazee. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Frazee
Frazee-Vergas Early Childhood Center
Frazee-Vergas Public School District
The Frazee-Vergas Early Childhood Center is a highly-regarded public school district program that provides comprehensive early childhood education services. Operating within the Frazee school system, this center focuses on school readiness through developmentally appropriate practices and play-based learning. The program employs licensed early childhood educators with specialized training in child development. They offer structured preschool programs, early intervention services, and family education components. The center is known for its strong community connections, safe learning environment, and emphasis on social-emotional development alongside academic preparation. Their curriculum aligns with Minnesota Early Childhood Indicators of Progress and includes regular developmental screenings.
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New Horizon Learning Center
Independent
Located approximately 15 miles from Frazee in Detroit Lakes, New Horizon Learning Center serves families throughout Becker County. This NAEYC-accredited facility offers a comprehensive educational program from infancy through school age. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum and Teaching Strategies Gold assessment system, providing individualized learning experiences. The center features highly qualified staff with low child-to-teacher ratios, secure entry systems, and modern facilities with age-appropriate learning environments. They emphasize literacy development, STEM activities, and social skills building. The center operates year-round with flexible scheduling options and provides nutritious meals and snacks following USDA guidelines.
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Stepping Stones Early Learning Center
Perham Health
Stepping Stones Early Learning Center, located about 20 miles from Frazee in Perham, is operated by Perham Health and serves as a high-quality childcare option for the region. This state-licensed facility offers research-based curriculum with focus on whole-child development. The center features Parent Aware-rated programs, qualified early childhood teachers, and comprehensive safety protocols including health screening procedures. Their educational approach balances structured learning with play-based activities, incorporating literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts. The facility includes secure indoor environments and safe outdoor play areas. They maintain strong parent partnerships through regular communication and family engagement events, and offer backup care options for working families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Frazee, MN
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Frazee, MN, and how do I find them?
In Frazee, licensed childcare options primarily include family childcare homes and child care centers. Family childcare providers operate out of their own homes and are licensed for smaller groups, often offering a more home-like setting. Child care centers are larger facilities with multiple staff. To find licensed providers, the most reliable resource is Minnesota’s Department of Human Services (DHS) "Find Child Care" online tool. You can filter by location (Frazee, 56544), type of care, and age group. Additionally, local resources like the Becker County Family Services Collaborative or the Lakes Area Child Care Coalition can provide referrals and information on current openings in the area.
What is the typical cost range for full-time childcare in Frazee, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Frazee and surrounding Becker County, full-time childcare costs can vary. For an infant in a family childcare home, you might expect to pay approximately $150-$200 per week, while a center-based program could range from $180-$250 per week. Rates for toddlers and preschoolers are generally slightly lower. Financial assistance is available through Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which helps eligible low- and middle-income families. Applications are processed through the Becker County Human Services office in Detroit Lakes. Some local providers may also offer sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Frazee, and how far in advance should I start looking for care?
Yes, waitlists are common for many licensed childcare providers in Frazee, particularly for infant and toddler spots, due to limited capacity in this smaller community. It is strongly recommended that you begin your search at least 6 to 9 months before you need care, especially if you require care for a child under two. For popular providers or if you need care by a specific date (like a return to work), starting a year in advance is not unusual. When contacting providers, always ask about their current waitlist policy, estimated timeline, and if they require a deposit to hold a spot.
What are the key Minnesota state licensing requirements I should verify when choosing a daycare provider in Frazee?
All licensed providers in Frazee must meet Minnesota DHS standards. Key requirements to verify include: staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:7 for toddlers), background checks for all staff, annual training in topics like Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and shaken baby syndrome, and compliance with health and safety standards for the facility. Providers must also have a license visibly posted. You can view a provider's licensing record, including any past violations, on the DHS website. Don't hesitate to ask a provider directly about their license status, staff qualifications, and emergency procedures.
Given Frazee's rural location, what should I consider regarding transportation, hours of operation, and backup care options?
Childcare in Frazee often reflects the needs of a rural and working community. Hours may start early (around 6:30 or 7:00 AM) to accommodate commutes to Detroit Lakes or other employment hubs, but many providers close by 5:30 PM. Very few offer evening or weekend care. Transportation is typically not provided by daycare providers, so parents are responsible for drop-off and pick-up. For backup care, options are extremely limited. It's crucial to discuss a provider's sick policy and planned closure days upfront. Building a network with other local parents for occasional babysitting swaps is a common strategy to manage gaps in care.