The Best Daycare Centers in Goodhue, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Goodhue. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Goodhue
The Goddard School of Red Wing
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Red Wing offers a premier early childhood education program serving families in the Goodhue area. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) focuses on play-based learning across seven learning domains. The facility features modern classrooms, secure entry systems, and age-appropriate playgrounds. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The curriculum includes STEAM learning, sign language for infants, and character development programs. Parents appreciate the daily communication through the proprietary mobile app and the nutritious meal program included in tuition.
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Little Wonders Child Care Center
Little Wonders Child Care Center
Little Wonders Child Care Center has been serving Goodhue County families for over 15 years with a comprehensive early childhood program. Their developmentally appropriate curriculum emphasizes social-emotional learning, literacy development, and kindergarten readiness. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and employs experienced early childhood educators. Safety features include secured entrances, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The facility includes separate infant and toddler rooms, a preschool learning center, and outdoor play areas designed for different age groups. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, clean environment, and strong communication about child development progress.
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Zumbrota Area Learning Center
Zumbrota-Mazeppa School District
Zumbrota Area Learning Center provides high-quality early childhood education services to families throughout Goodhue County. Operating within the Zumbrota-Mazeppa School District, the center offers research-based curriculum aligned with Minnesota Early Childhood Indicators of Progress. The program focuses on school readiness through structured play, literacy development, and social skills building. Certified early childhood teachers and licensed staff provide individualized attention to each child. The facility includes modern classrooms, a gymnasium for indoor play, and secure outdoor playgrounds. The center partners with local elementary schools to ensure smooth transitions to kindergarten and offers flexible scheduling options for working families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Goodhue, MN
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available to families in Goodhue, MN?
In Goodhue, parents typically have access to three main types of licensed childcare options. First, licensed family childcare homes, which are operated in a provider's residence and can care for up to 10 children (with no more than 3 under 24 months). These are common in residential areas of Goodhue and offer a home-like setting. Second, licensed childcare centers, which are larger facilities; while Goodhue itself is a smaller community, some centers may operate in nearby towns or within local schools or churches. Third, certified license-exempt providers, often relatives, who care for children from a single family. All licensed providers in Minnesota are regulated by the Department of Human Services (DHS) and must meet state standards for safety, staff-to-child ratios, and training. Due to Goodhue's rural nature, family childcare homes are often the most prevalent local option.
How can I find and verify the license of a childcare provider in Goodhue?
The most reliable resource is Minnesota's Department of Human Services (DHS) online "Child Care Lookup" tool. You can search for providers by city (Goodhue), zip code (55027), or provider name. This public database shows a provider's license status, capacity, age ranges served, any licensing violations or corrective actions, and the date of their last inspection. You can also contact the DHS Licensing Division's Southeast Regional office, which oversees Goodhue County, for additional information. It's highly recommended to use this tool and then schedule an in-person visit to any potential provider to observe the environment, ask about their daily routines, and meet the staff.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Goodhue, and are there any financial assistance programs?
In Goodhue and surrounding Goodhue County, costs can vary. For a licensed family childcare home, full-time care for an infant may range from approximately $175 to $225 per week. For a toddler or preschooler, it might be $150 to $200 per week. Center-based care, if available locally or in a neighboring town like Red Wing, tends to be higher. Financial assistance is available for eligible families through the Minnesota Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP). This state and federally funded program is administered by Goodhue County Health and Human Services. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and reason for care (work, training, etc.). You can apply directly through the Goodhue County agency.
Are waitlists common for daycare in Goodhue, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common due to the limited number of providers in a smaller community like Goodhue. High-quality licensed homes, in particular, often have limited openings. It is strongly advised to begin your search during pregnancy, ideally 6 to 12 months before you need care to secure a spot. When contacting providers, ask immediately about current availability and their waitlist process (e.g., if there's a fee to be on the list, how often they update families). Exploring options in nearby communities such as Zumbrota, Pine Island, or Red Wing can broaden your choices, but be prepared for potentially longer commute times for drop-off and pick-up.
What are some local resources or organizations in Goodhue County that can help parents with childcare searches and early childhood development?
A key local resource is **First Steps of Goodhue County**, which is the county's Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) program. They offer classes, parenting resources, and can often provide referrals to local childcare providers. Another vital organization is **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R)** for Southern Minnesota, which serves Goodhue County. They maintain a database of providers, offer consumer education on choosing care, and support providers with training. You can contact them via phone or online. Additionally, connecting with other parents through community groups like the Goodhue Area Community Forum on social media or at local events can yield personal recommendations and insights into provider reputations.