The Best Daycare Centers in Hendricks, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Hendricks. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Hendricks
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center is a highly-regarded local childcare facility serving the Hendricks community with comprehensive early childhood education programs. The center employs state-licensed teachers with degrees in early childhood development and maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Their curriculum focuses on play-based learning, social-emotional development, and school readiness skills. The facility features secure access controls, modern safety protocols, and age-appropriate learning environments with both indoor and outdoor play spaces. Parents consistently praise the center's nurturing atmosphere, consistent communication, and individualized attention given to each child's developmental needs.
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New Horizon Children's Center
Independent
Located in nearby Marshall (approximately 25 minutes from Hendricks), New Horizon Children's Center serves families throughout Lincoln County with high-quality childcare services. The center features a comprehensive early learning curriculum that incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and creative arts. All staff members are CPR/First Aid certified and participate in ongoing professional development. The facility includes secure entry systems, modern playground equipment, and dedicated learning centers for different age groups. Parents particularly appreciate the center's transparent communication, nutritious meal program, and commitment to creating a supportive learning environment that prepares children for academic success.
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Kindercare Learning Center - Marshall
KinderCare Education
As part of the nationally recognized KinderCare network, this Marshall location provides structured early childhood education programs serving families from Hendricks and surrounding communities. The center implements KinderCare's proprietary curriculum that focuses on literacy, math, science, and social skills development through hands-on learning experiences. Features include secure building access, age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play areas, and experienced teaching staff with early childhood credentials. The center offers flexible scheduling options and maintains strong parent partnerships through regular progress updates and family engagement activities. Their comprehensive approach balances academic preparation with social development in a safe, nurturing environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Hendricks, MN
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Hendricks, MN, and how do I find them?
In Hendricks, parents typically have access to licensed family childcare homes and potentially a childcare center. Family childcare homes are more common in smaller communities like Hendricks and operate out of a provider's residence, offering a home-like setting for a smaller group of children. To find licensed providers, your primary resource is Minnesota’s Department of Human Services (DHS) "Find a Child Care Provider" online search tool. You can filter by Hendricks (Zip Code 56136) to see a list of currently licensed programs, their type, capacity, and any recent licensing reports. Additionally, contacting the Lincoln, Lyon, and Murray Human Services office or checking with the Hendricks School District for potential preschool partnerships can be helpful.
Are there typically long waitlists for childcare in Hendricks, and when should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small town like Hendricks, waitlists can be common and sometimes lengthy, especially for infants and toddlers. It is highly recommended to begin your search as early as possible—ideally 6 to 12 months before you need care, or as soon as you know you are expecting. Contact providers directly to inquire about current openings and their waitlist process. Being flexible with your start date can improve your chances. Don't hesitate to also explore providers in nearby towns such as Ivanhoe or Lake Benton if you are willing to commute.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Hendricks, and are there financial assistance programs?
Costs in Hendricks are generally lower than in major metro areas but can vary. For a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $150 to $250 per week for full-time care for a preschooler. Infant care is typically more expensive. The State of Minnesota offers financial assistance through the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families based on income, family size, and need. You apply through Lincoln, Lyon, and Murray Human Services. Additionally, you may be eligible for federal tax credits. Always ask providers if they accept CCAP, as not all do.
What should I look for during a tour of a Hendricks childcare provider to ensure quality and safety?
First, verify the provider's license is current and posted, and ask to see their most recent licensing review report. Observe the environment: Is it clean, safe, and well-organized? Are there age-appropriate toys and books? Notice how the provider interacts with the children—are they engaged and responsive? Ask about their daily schedule, discipline policy, sick child policy, and emergency procedures. Inquire about their training, including CPR/First Aid and SIDS prevention. For a small community, personal references from other Hendricks parents are invaluable. Trust your instincts about the warmth and professionalism of the setting.
How does Minnesota state licensing ensure the quality of childcare in a town like Hendricks?
All licensed providers in Hendricks must comply with Minnesota's detailed Rule 3 (for family childcare) or Rule 2 (for centers) regulations. These rules set standards for staff-to-child ratios, maximum group sizes, health and safety practices (e.g., safe sleep for infants, immunization records, emergency plans), background studies for all adults in the home, and ongoing training requirements. Licensing specialists from the Minnesota DHS conduct unannounced visits at least once a year to monitor compliance. You can review a provider's public licensing file, which includes any correction orders, to understand how they meet these state-mandated standards designed to protect your child.