The Best Daycare Centers in Gatzke, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Gatzke. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Gatzke
Kids' Junction Daycare & Preschool
Independent
Kids' Junction is a highly-regarded childcare center serving the greater Marshall County area, including Gatzke families. They offer a comprehensive early childhood education program with a play-based learning approach that incorporates Creative Curriculum standards. The center features certified early childhood educators with an average of 8+ years experience, maintaining low teacher-to-child ratios. Their facility includes secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and modern learning environments. The program emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy readiness, and STEM activities. They provide nutritious meals and snacks through their in-house food program and maintain excellent state licensing compliance records.
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Little Learners Child Care Center
Independent
Little Learners serves families throughout the Gatzke region with a focus on individualized developmental care. Their curriculum blends Montessori principles with Minnesota Early Childhood Indicators of Progress. The center employs degreed early childhood professionals who participate in ongoing training. Safety features include secured access, comprehensive background checks, and emergency preparedness protocols. The facility offers separate learning centers for different age groups, outdoor nature exploration areas, and technology-integrated learning stations. Parent communication is emphasized through daily reports and a dedicated app. They're known for their inclusive environment and flexible scheduling options for rural families.
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New Horizons Childcare & Preschool
Independent
New Horizons provides quality childcare services to families in Roseau County and surrounding areas including Gatzke. They offer a structured educational program that prepares children for kindergarten through a balanced approach of direct instruction and child-directed play. The center features state-licensed teachers with specialized training in early childhood development. Their facility includes modern security systems, commercial-grade kitchen for meal preparation, and developmentally appropriate learning materials. The program focuses on building foundational academic skills while promoting social competence and emotional resilience. They maintain strong community partnerships and offer transportation services for school-age children in the broader region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Gatzke, MN
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in and around Gatzke, MN?
In the Gatzke area, which is a small, rural community in Marshall County, licensed childcare options are primarily in-home family childcare programs. Due to the population size, there are no large childcare centers in Gatzke itself. Parents often look to nearby towns like Middle River, Greenbush, or Warroad for additional options, including licensed centers. The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) licenses both family childcare homes (caring for up to 10 children) and childcare centers. Given the rural setting, securing a spot in a local in-home program is common, but it's crucial to verify the provider's current DHS license and any specific certifications they hold.
How can I find and verify licensed childcare providers in Gatzke?
The most reliable resource is Minnesota’s statewide online tool, "Find Child Care," managed by the Department of Human Services. You can search by city (Gatzke) or zip code to see a list of licensed providers, their capacity, and any recorded licensing violations. For local word-of-mouth recommendations, checking with the Gatzke Community Club, local churches, or the Marshall County Social Services office can be very helpful. Always schedule an in-person visit to any prospective in-home provider to observe the environment, ask about their daily schedule, discipline policy, and emergency plans, and request references from other parents in the area.
Are there any childcare assistance programs available for families in Gatzke?
Yes, eligible families in Marshall County, which includes Gatzke, can apply for the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP). This state and federally funded program helps low- and moderate-income families pay for childcare so parents can work or attend school. You apply through the Marshall County Social Services department. Additionally, some local providers may offer private sliding scale fees. It's important to note that not all licensed providers accept CCAP, so you must confirm this during your search. The Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) also includes childcare support for qualifying participants.
What is the typical cost for daycare in Gatzke, and are waitlists common?
Costs in rural areas like Gatzke are generally lower than in Minnesota's metropolitan areas, but options are more limited. For a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $125 to $200 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. Rates can vary based on the provider's experience, meals provided, and hours of operation. Waitlists are very common due to the limited number of providers in a small community. It is strongly advised to begin your search during pregnancy or several months before you need care. Building a relationship with a local provider early can be key to securing a spot.
What should I look for regarding safety and preparedness in a Gatzke daycare, given our rural location?
Given Gatzke's remote setting, specific safety protocols are vital. First, ensure the provider is licensed by MN DHS, which requires background checks, safe sleep training (for infants), and CPR/first aid certification. Ask about their emergency plan for severe weather (like blizzards common in northwest Minnesota) and medical emergencies. How would they handle a situation if roads were impassable? Do they have backup power or a stocked emergency kit? Also, inquire about their transportation policy if school-age children need to be taken to or from the bus stop on rural roads. A quality provider will have clear, communicated plans for these scenarios.