The Best Daycare Centers in Henning, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Henning. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Henning
New Horizon Academy Fergus Falls
New Horizon Academy
New Horizon Academy Fergus Falls provides comprehensive early childhood education with a research-based curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math, and social-emotional development. The center features highly qualified teachers with CPR and First Aid certifications, maintained low teacher-to-child ratios, and secure entry systems for safety. Their programs include age-appropriate learning activities, nutritious meals, and outdoor play spaces. Parent communication is prioritized through daily updates and regular conferences, making it a trusted choice for families in the Henning area.
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Perham Early Childhood Family Education
Perham-Dent Public Schools
Perham Early Childhood Family Education offers a holistic approach to early learning, focusing on school readiness through play-based curricula and family involvement. Staff include licensed early childhood educators who provide individualized attention and track developmental milestones. The program emphasizes safety with certified facilities and inclusive environments. Services include parent education workshops and flexible scheduling, catering to the needs of Henning residents seeking quality early childhood programs.
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Wadena-Deer Creek Early Childhood Family Education
Wadena-Deer Creek School District
Wadena-Deer Creek Early Childhood Family Education delivers high-quality early learning experiences with a focus on developmental appropriate practices and community engagement. The center employs certified teachers who use evidence-based curricula to foster cognitive, physical, and social skills. Safety protocols include background-checked staff and secure facilities. Parents appreciate the strong communication and involvement opportunities, making it a reliable option for families from Henning and surrounding areas.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Henning, MN
What types of licensed childcare options are available in Henning, MN, and how do I find them?
In Henning, licensed childcare options primarily include family childcare homes and potentially a childcare center. Family childcare providers operate out of their residences and are licensed for smaller groups, which can offer a home-like environment. To find licensed providers, the most reliable resource is Minnesota’s Department of Human Services (DHS) “Find a Child Care Provider” online search tool. You can filter by city (Henning), zip code (56551), and type of care. Additionally, connecting with local networks like the Otter Tail County Public Health or asking for recommendations in community Facebook groups (e.g., "Henning, MN Community") can provide personal insights and lead you to providers who may have immediate openings.
What is the typical cost for full-time childcare in Henning, and are there financial assistance programs for local families?
In Henning and surrounding Otter Tail County, full-time childcare costs are generally lower than in major metro areas but vary by provider type. For a family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $150 to $225 per week per child for full-time care. A center-based program, if available locally, could be slightly higher. Minnesota offers financial assistance through the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which is administered by Otter Tail County. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and need (like work or school attendance). You can apply through the Otter Tail County Human Services department. Some local providers may also offer sibling discounts.
Are there long waitlists for childcare in Henning, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to Henning's smaller size and limited number of providers, openings can be sporadic and waitlists are common, especially for infants and toddlers. It is strongly recommended to begin your search at least 6-9 months before you need care, if possible. Many family childcare homes have limited capacity (often 6-10 children total, including their own), so a single opening fills quickly. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current availability and waitlist policy. Being flexible with your start date and considering providers in nearby towns like Battle Lake or Fergus Falls can broaden your options if you are willing to commute.
What are the state licensing requirements for childcare providers in Minnesota that I should verify for a Henning provider?
All licensed providers in Minnesota, including those in Henning, must meet strict standards set by the MN DHS. Key requirements you can verify include: background checks for all adults in the home, annual training in topics like SIDS, shaken baby syndrome, and CPR/first aid certification, compliance with health and safety standards (safe sleep, medication administration, emergency plans), and adherence to staff-to-child ratios and maximum group sizes. Licensed providers are subject to unannounced monitoring visits. You can ask any provider for their license number and look up their licensing history, including any violations, on the DHS website. This due diligence is crucial for your child's safety.
Besides basic care, what kind of early learning or preschool programs are integrated into childcare in Henning?
While Henning does not have a large number of dedicated preschools, many licensed family childcare providers participate in Minnesota’s Parent Aware quality rating system. A Parent Aware-rated provider (earning 1 to 4 stars) intentionally incorporates early learning and school readiness activities into their daily program. You can search specifically for rated providers in the Henning area. Additionally, the Henning Public School District offers early childhood family education (ECFE) and potentially preschool programs for older toddlers, which may be part-day. Some childcare providers may coordinate with these programs to offer wraparound care. Asking providers about their daily curriculum and learning philosophy is key to finding a program that aligns with your educational goals for your child.