The Best Daycare Centers in Harris, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Harris. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Harris
North Branch Early Childhood
North Branch Area Public Schools
North Branch Early Childhood provides high-quality preschool education through North Branch Area Public Schools, serving the broader Harris community. The program focuses on school readiness with a play-based learning approach that emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy, and math skills. Certified early childhood educators lead small classes with low student-teacher ratios. The facility features age-appropriate learning centers, outdoor play areas, and comprehensive safety protocols. Parents praise the program's structured curriculum, experienced staff, and strong communication. The center partners with families to ensure smooth transitions to kindergarten.
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Cambridge-Isanti Early Childhood Family Center
Cambridge-Isanti Public Schools
Serving the Harris area through Cambridge-Isanti Public Schools, this early childhood center offers comprehensive preschool and family education programs. The curriculum emphasizes developmental appropriateness with structured learning activities, creative play, and social skill building. Licensed teachers with early childhood degrees implement research-based practices in literacy, numeracy, and motor skills development. The facility includes modern classrooms, specialized learning materials, and secure access systems. The program is noted for its inclusive environment, regular developmental assessments, and strong community partnerships that benefit Harris families.
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Little Blessings Childcare & Preschool
Independent
Little Blessings Childcare & Preschool serves Harris families with a comprehensive early childhood program located in nearby Cambridge. The center provides age-appropriate curricula including Creative Curriculum for preschoolers and developmental activities for infants and toddlers. The staff includes qualified early childhood educators who maintain low child-to-teacher ratios and implement structured daily schedules. The facility features secure entry systems, modern learning environments, outdoor play spaces, and nutritious meal programs. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, clean facilities, and the center's focus on both academic preparation and character development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Harris, MN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Harris, MN?
In Harris and the surrounding Chisago County area, full-time daycare costs can vary based on the type of provider. For a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $175-$225 per week for an infant. Center-based care in nearby larger towns like North Branch or Forest Lake tends to be higher, often ranging from $225-$300 per week. It's important to note that Harris is a smaller, rural community, so there are fewer centers directly in town, which can sometimes keep local in-home provider rates slightly more competitive. Always inquire about what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, and supplies. Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is available for eligible families to help offset these costs.
How can I verify that a daycare provider in Harris is properly licensed and what should I look for in their licensing record?
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 using the "Look Up a License" feature on the Minnesota DHS website. When looking up a provider in Harris, pay close attention to their license type (Family, Center, or Group Family), the capacity and ages they are licensed for, and the license expiration date. Crucially, review any recent licensing reports for notes on compliance or non-compliance with state rules. For local context, you can also contact the Chisago County Public Health or Social Services departments, as they may have additional community-specific insights or resources for parents evaluating providers.
Are there long waitlists for daycare openings in Harris, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to Harris's smaller size and limited number of providers, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care, which has stricter staff-to-child ratios. It is highly advisable to begin your search at least 6-9 months before you need care, and if you are expecting, to get on lists during your second trimester. Many popular family childcare homes in the area may only have openings when an older child transitions to preschool. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current waitlist length and process. Expanding your search to include licensed providers in neighboring communities like North Branch, Stacy, or Wyoming can increase your options, though you'll need to factor in commute time.
What are the options for part-time or drop-in childcare in the Harris area?
Regular part-time and drop-in childcare options are very limited in Harris itself, as most licensed providers prioritize full-time enrollments to maintain stable income and staffing. However, some family childcare homes may offer part-time slots (e.g., 2-3 days a week) if they have availability. For occasional drop-in care, your best bet is to look at larger childcare centers in nearby cities like Forest Lake or Cambridge, some of which may offer drop-in services based on daily availability. Another resource is to check with local churches in Harris and North Branch, as they sometimes host parent's day out programs or have connections to in-home providers willing to accommodate occasional care.
What resources are available in Chisago County to help me find and choose a quality childcare provider near Harris?
Your primary local resource is the **Child Care Aware of Minnesota** referral service. You can call their hotline or use their online search tool, specifying your zip code (55032) to get a list of licensed providers in and around Harris. Additionally, the **Chisago County Family Services Collaborative** can be a valuable point of contact for local parent support and early childhood information. They may host community events or have staff who can offer guidance. For hands-on vetting, always schedule interviews and tours, ask for references from current parents, and observe how the provider interacts with children. Checking with local Facebook community groups for Harris/Chisago County can also yield personal recommendations from other parents.
Childcare Insights for Harris
Finding quality daycare is one of the most significant decisions a family makes, blending logistics, trust, and a deep hope for your child's happiness and growth. For parents in Harris, Minnesota, navigating the search for "daycare around me" comes with its own unique community context. Harris, with its blend of small-town closeness and proximity to the broader Forest Lake and Twin Cities metro area, offers a range of childcare options that reflect both its rural character and the needs of commuting families. Your search is not just about finding a service, but about finding a supportive extension of your family right here in our community.
A great first step is to tap into the local networks that make Harris special. Conversations at the Harris Community Center, word-of-mouth recommendations from other parents at the park, or insights from your neighbors can lead to discovering licensed in-home providers who offer a nurturing, family-like setting. These smaller settings often provide flexible hours and a consistent caregiver, which can be incredibly comforting for young children. Simultaneously, many families in Harris also consider registered centers in nearby towns like North Branch or Forest Lake, which may offer structured preschool curricula and larger peer groups. Balancing commute time with the program's philosophy is a key practical consideration for daily life in our area.
When evaluating any option, whether a local in-home daycare or a center a short drive away, licensing is your foundation. You can verify a provider's standing through Minnesota’s Department of Human Services website, ensuring they meet state health, safety, and staff training standards. Beyond the license, schedule visits. Notice if the children seem engaged and content. Ask about daily routines, how they handle challenging moments, and their policy on outdoor play—something we Minnesotans value in all seasons! Inquire about their communication style; a provider who sends photos or brief notes about your child’s day can bridge the gap when you’re at work.
Remember that availability in Harris and the surrounding region can be limited, with waiting lists common. Starting your search early, even during pregnancy, is a proactive move that can reduce stress. Financially, explore resources like the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) through Chisago County or potential sliding-scale fees some providers offer. Trust your instincts during visits. The right environment will feel safe, warm, and aligned with your family's values. It’s the feeling that your child will be known, not just supervised. Finding that perfect fit provides immeasurable peace of mind, allowing you to work or manage your day knowing your little one is thriving right here in the Harris community. Your careful search is an investment in your child’s joyful present and a strong foundation for their future.