The Best Daycare Centers in Hibbing, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Hibbing. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Hibbing
Kids & Company Learning Center
Independent
Kids & Company Learning Center is a highly-regarded local childcare facility offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. They feature a research-based curriculum that emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM activities. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios with qualified staff holding early childhood education credentials. Their facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor play areas designed for different age groups. They provide nutritious meals and snacks through their in-house food program and offer flexible scheduling to accommodate working families in the Hibbing community.
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New Horizon Daycare & Preschool
Independent
New Horizon Daycare & Preschool provides a nurturing environment with a strong focus on early childhood development. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum elements with hands-on learning activities, music, and art. The center features certified teachers with specialized training in early childhood education and maintains excellent safety protocols including secure access and comprehensive background checks. Their facility includes separate infant and toddler rooms, a preschool learning center, and fenced outdoor playgrounds. They emphasize parent communication through daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences.
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Mesabi Family YMCA Childcare Center
YMCA of the North
The Mesabi Family YMCA Childcare Center serves the broader Iron Range area including Hibbing families, offering a comprehensive early childhood program rooted in the YMCA's values-based approach. Their curriculum focuses on whole-child development with emphasis on character values, literacy, and physical activity. The center features state-licensed teachers with ongoing professional development and maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios. Facilities include modern classrooms, indoor gross motor spaces, and access to YMCA amenities. They offer financial assistance options and partner with Early Head Start to provide inclusive programming for diverse family needs in the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Hibbing, MN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Hibbing, MN?
In Hibbing, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the type of provider and the child's age. For licensed daycare centers, you can expect to pay approximately $175 to $250 per week for an infant or toddler. In-home family childcare providers often range from $125 to $200 per week. These rates are generally lower than the Minnesota state average, reflecting Hibbing's cost of living. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. Financial assistance is available for qualifying families through programs like the Minnesota Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which can be applied for through the St. Louis County office.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Hibbing is properly licensed and check their compliance history?
All licensed childcare providers in Hibbing must be regulated by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS). The best way to verify a provider's status and history is to use the online "Look Up a License" tool on the Minnesota DHS website. This public database shows the provider's license type (family, center, or group family), capacity, any licensing actions, and the results of their most recent monitoring visits. You can also contact the St. Louis County Public Health and Human Services department for local insights. Always visit the facility in person, ask to see their current license, and request references from other Hibbing-area parents.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Hibbing, and what's the best way to secure a spot?
Waitlists for infant care at popular daycare centers in Hibbing can be significant, often ranging from 3 to 9 months. This is due to limited slots and high demand for this age group. For toddler and preschool-age children, availability is generally better, but it's still wise to plan ahead. The best strategy is to start your search during pregnancy or at least 6 months before you need care. Contact multiple providers—both centers and licensed in-home programs—to get on their lists. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $25-$75). Follow up every few months to express continued interest. Exploring providers in nearby towns like Chisholm or Virginia can also expand your options.
What unique childcare options or programs are available in Hibbing for school-age children during the summer and school breaks?
Hibbing offers several community-focused options for school-age childcare outside of school hours. The Hibbing Community Education department typically runs a popular and affordable "Summer Adventure Club" program with activities, field trips, and care. The Hibbing Family YMCA also offers summer day camps and school's out programs. For more structured enrichment, the Hibbing Public Library hosts summer reading programs and events. Some local daycare centers also offer summer-only slots for school-age children. These programs fill quickly, so registration usually opens in early spring. It's a good idea to connect with your school district's community ed office in late winter for the upcoming summer schedule.
How does Hibbing's weather and rural location impact daycare operations and what should parents plan for?
Hibbing's severe winters and occasional heavy snowfalls directly impact childcare. Daycares follow the Hibbing Public Schools' decisions for snow days and late starts; if schools are closed, most daycare centers will also be closed. In-home providers may have more flexibility but will communicate their policy. Parents should have a confirmed backup plan for these days. During winter, ensure your child has appropriate snow gear (boots, snow pants, mittens, hat) at daycare for outdoor play, as many follow "there's no bad weather, only bad clothing" policies for fresh air. Furthermore, due to the rural location, field trips are often limited to local venues like parks, the library, or the Hull-Rust Mine View. Always inquire about the provider's emergency preparedness plan for weather-related power outages or delays in parent pick-up.