The Best Daycare Centers in Hopkins, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Hopkins. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Hopkins
Primrose School of Hopkins
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Hopkins follows the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach, blending purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The curriculum focuses on developing literacy, math, science, and social skills through hands-on activities. Features include secure entry systems, daily health screenings, and age-appropriate playgrounds. Teachers hold early childhood credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes character development and social-emotional learning, with parents praising the consistent communication and individualized attention children receive.
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New Horizon Academy - Hopkins
New Horizon Academy
As part of Minnesota's largest childcare provider, New Horizon Academy in Hopkins offers comprehensive early education programs with research-based curriculum. The center features secure keypad entry, comprehensive safety protocols, and nutritious meal programs. Their curriculum focuses on school readiness through STEM activities, literacy development, and social skills. Teachers maintain low child-to-staff ratios and participate in ongoing training. Parents consistently praise the clean facilities, experienced staff, and the center's commitment to creating a nurturing, educational environment for all age groups.
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The Goddard School of Minnetonka
Goddard Systems, Inc.
Located just minutes from Hopkins in Minnetonka, The Goddard School provides F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. The school features secure entry systems, daily safety checks, and modern classroom technology. All teachers are early childhood education qualified and participate in continuous professional development. The curriculum emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies through hands-on learning centers. Parents highlight the school's excellent communication, comprehensive learning assessments, and the strong sense of community among families and staff.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Hopkins, MN
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Hopkins, MN?
In Hopkins and the surrounding western Twin Cities metro, full-time daycare costs typically range from $1,400 to $1,900 per month for an infant, and $1,300 to $1,700 per month for a toddler. These rates are for licensed center-based care; licensed family childcare homes may be slightly less, averaging $1,100 to $1,500 monthly. Costs can vary based on the program's curriculum, staff-to-child ratios, and amenities. It's important to note that Minnesota offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families, and many Hopkins providers accept it. Always ask providers about their specific tuition, registration fees, and whether supplies or meals are included.
How long are waitlists for daycare centers in Hopkins, and how can I improve my chances of securing a spot?
Waitlists for highly-regarded daycare centers in Hopkins can be significant, especially for infant rooms. It's common to encounter waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Get on multiple waitlists (even if there's a small fee) and check in with providers every 2-3 months to confirm your interest remains active. Consider expanding your search to neighboring communities like Minnetonka, St. Louis Park, or Golden Valley. Also, explore licensed family childcare providers, which often have shorter wait times and can offer a home-like setting. The Minnesota Department of Human Services' "Find Child Care" website is a crucial tool for locating licensed options.
What are the key Minnesota state licensing requirements I should look for when evaluating a Hopkins daycare?
All legal childcare providers in Hopkins must be licensed by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS). Key requirements to verify include: **Staff-to-Child Ratios** (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:7 for toddlers, 1:10 for preschoolers), **Background Checks** for all staff, **Health and Safety Training** including SIDS/Shaken Baby Syndrome prevention, and **Annual Licensing Reviews**. You can view a provider's full licensing report, including any correction orders, on the DHS website. Additionally, look for providers that go beyond minimums, such as those with Parent Aware Star Ratings (Minnesota's quality rating system), accredited programs (like NAEYC), or staff with higher education in early childhood development.
Are there any unique or popular childcare programs in Hopkins that incorporate outdoor or nature-based learning?
Yes, Hopkins and the immediate area have a strong emphasis on nature-based and outdoor learning, aligning with Minnesota's culture. Several local providers incorporate daily outdoor time in all weather (with proper gear). Specifically, the **Hopkins Public Schools Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE)** program offers classes that emphasize outdoor play and exploration. Furthermore, nearby nature-based preschools in Minnetonka and Eden Prairie are popular choices for Hopkins families. The **Hopkins Activity Center** also offers seasonal outdoor-focused kids' programs. When touring facilities, ask about their outdoor play philosophy, the security and features of their playgrounds, and if they participate in programs like "I Can Play Outside" initiatives.
What resources are available in Hopkins for finding last-minute or backup childcare?
Finding reliable backup care in Hopkins can be challenging, but several resources exist. First, inquire if your primary daycare center offers a "drop-in" day for enrolled families when space allows. For more structured options, you can use licensed **Drop-In Childcare Centers** located in nearby Edina or Minneapolis. The website **Care.com** and local Facebook groups (e.g., "Hopkins, MN Community") are often used by parents to find vetted babysitters for occasional care. For a more formal service, consider **Bright Horizons Backup Care**, which partners with many local employers. Additionally, the **Hopkins Community Education** department sometimes offers school-break camps and workshops that can serve as partial-day coverage. Planning ahead and having a shortlist of trusted babysitters is highly recommended.
Nearby Cities
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