The Best Daycare Centers in Inver Grove Heights, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Inver Grove Heights. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Inver Grove Heights
Primrose School of Eagan
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Eagan is a nationally accredited early education center that serves families throughout the southern metro area, including Inver Grove Heights. They implement the exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum, which blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The school features STEM labs, music rooms, and age-appropriate outdoor playgrounds. All lead teachers hold four-year degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the facility maintains rigorous safety protocols including secured entry systems and comprehensive background checks. Their approach focuses on developing character, creativity, and critical thinking skills through hands-on learning experiences.
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New Horizon Academy - Inver Grove Heights
New Horizon Academy
As part of Minnesota's largest childcare provider, New Horizon Academy in Inver Grove Heights offers comprehensive early childhood education with research-based curriculum. Their program includes STEAM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. The center features secure keypad entry, live streaming for parents, and nutritious meals prepared on-site. Teachers receive ongoing professional development and maintain CPR/first aid certification. The facility includes separate age-appropriate playgrounds and classrooms designed to stimulate learning through exploration and play-based activities.
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Step By Step Montessori - Woodbury
Step By Step Montessori
Step By Step Montessori in nearby Woodbury serves families across the eastern metro, including Inver Grove Heights residents. This AMI-recognized school offers authentic Montessori education with certified Montessori teachers and carefully prepared environments. The curriculum emphasizes independence, practical life skills, and individualized learning progression. Classrooms feature natural Montessori materials, and the campus includes organic gardens and nature-based outdoor spaces. The school maintains low student-teacher ratios and employs comprehensive security measures while fostering a nurturing, child-centered community focused on whole-child development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Inver Grove Heights, MN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Inver Grove Heights, MN?
In Inver Grove Heights, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the type of provider and the child's age. For licensed daycare centers, infant care (under 18 months) typically ranges from $350 to $450 per week. Toddler care (18 months to 3 years) is slightly lower, averaging $300 to $400 per week. Licensed family childcare homes often offer more affordable rates, ranging from $225 to $350 per week for full-time care. These costs are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, and facility amenities. It's important to note that Minnesota offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families, and some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts.
How can I find and verify licensed childcare providers in Inver Grove Heights?
The primary resource for finding licensed childcare in Inver Grove Heights is through Minnesota’s Department of Human Services (DHS) "Find Child Care" online search tool. This database allows you to search by zip code (55076, 55077) and filter by type (center, family, school-based). Each listing includes the provider's license status, capacity, and any recorded licensing violations. You can also contact the Dakota County Community Services Department for local referrals. Always verify a provider's license is current and in good standing by checking the DHS website or calling the DHS Licensing Division. Additionally, local resources like the "Inver Grove Heights Community Education" department may have information on preschool and school-age care programs.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Inver Grove Heights, and how early should I apply?
Yes, waitlists are common for many daycare centers and highly-regarded family childcare homes in Inver Grove Heights, especially for infant care slots. Due to high demand and limited infant-to-staff ratios mandated by Minnesota law, it is advisable to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during your second trimester of pregnancy or at least 6-12 months before your needed start date. For toddler or preschool spots, 3-6 months' lead time is often recommended. When contacting providers, ask specific questions about their waitlist process, including any fees, how often you should check in, and estimated availability timelines. Some centers affiliated with local employers or the school district may have different enrollment cycles.
What are the options for before and after-school care for school-age children in Inver Grove Heights?
Inver Grove Heights offers several options for school-age care. The Inver Grove Heights Community Schools (ISD 199) operates "Kids' Choice," a school-age care program for children in grades K-5, held at elementary school sites. This program provides care before school, after school, and on non-school days. Registration typically opens in the spring for the following school year and fills quickly. Additionally, private daycare centers and some licensed family providers in the area offer school-age programs with transportation to and from local schools like Salem Hills, Pine Bend, or Hilltop Elementary. The local YMCA and other community organizations may also offer after-school enrichment and care. It's best to contact ISD 199 Community Education directly for the most current information and availability.
What specific licensing standards and safety regulations should I look for in an Inver Grove Heights childcare provider?
All licensed providers in Inver Grove Heights must comply with Minnesota Rules, Chapter 9503. Key standards to inquire about include: staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:7 for toddlers), background checks (DHS NetStudy 2.0) for all employees, ongoing staff training in CPR, First Aid, and SIDS/Shaken Baby Syndrome prevention, and annual licensing reviews. Providers must also have written policies on health and safety, emergency preparedness (including tornado and fire drills specific to Minnesota), safe sleep practices for infants, and child nutrition. You can ask to see a provider's most recent licensing report, which details compliance. Additionally, Dakota County Public Health supports licensed programs with health and safety consultations. Choosing a licensed provider ensures these minimum standards are met.
Nearby Cities
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