The Best Daycare Centers in Jordan, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Jordan. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Jordan
New Horizon Academy
New Horizon Academy
New Horizon Academy in Jordan is highly regarded for its research-based early childhood curriculum that emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM activities through play-based learning. Staff members hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios for personalized attention. Safety is prioritized with secure entry systems, background checks, and regular safety drills. The facility features age-appropriate indoor classrooms and outdoor play areas, and parents appreciate the consistent communication through daily reports and family engagement events. Its longevity and strong parent satisfaction make it a top choice in the area.
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KinderCare Learning Centers
KinderCare
Located in nearby Shakopee, this KinderCare center serves families from Jordan with a comprehensive early learning curriculum that balances structured academics and creative play. The program includes phonics, math, science, and social skills development, tailored to each age group. All teachers are CPR and first aid certified, with ongoing professional development. The center boasts safe, clean facilities with dedicated playgrounds and learning centers. High parent satisfaction stems from transparent communication, nutritious meal programs, and a focus on individualized growth tracking. Its reputation for reliability and educational quality makes it a popular regional option.
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Jordan Early Childhood Family Center
Jordan Public Schools
As part of Jordan Public Schools, this center offers a school-ready curriculum aligned with state standards, focusing on literacy, numeracy, and social skills through hands-on activities. Staff include licensed early childhood teachers with expertise in developmental milestones. The facility provides a safe, inclusive environment with small class sizes and modern resources. Parents value the strong community ties, family involvement programs, and regular progress assessments. Its integration with the local school district ensures a smooth transition to kindergarten, backed by high safety standards and positive parent feedback.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Jordan, MN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Jordan, MN, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Jordan, the cost of full-time childcare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For an infant, you can expect to pay between $250 and $350 per week at a licensed center. For toddlers and preschoolers, weekly rates typically range from $200 to $280. In-home family childcare providers often have slightly lower rates, generally between $160 and $240 per week. To help with these costs, Minnesota offers several assistance programs. The Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is income-based and can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Additionally, you can apply for the state's Child and Dependent Care Credit on your income taxes. For local resources, contact the Scott County Community Development Agency or the Minnesota Department of Human Services to determine your eligibility and apply.
How long are daycare waitlists typically in Jordan, and what can I do to secure a spot sooner?
Waitlist times in Jordan can vary significantly. For highly sought-after centers or in-home providers, especially for infant care, waitlists can be 6 to 12 months long. For toddler and preschool spots, it's more common to see waitlists of 3 to 6 months. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Be proactive by contacting multiple providers, not just your top choice. Ask specific questions about their waitlist process: Is there a fee to be on it? How often do they update families? Can you tour while on the list? Consider expanding your search to nearby towns like Belle Plaine, Prior Lake, or Shakopee for more options. Many providers also give priority to siblings of current enrollees, so if you plan on having more children, this is a factor to consider.
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Jordan, and how can I verify a provider's license and complaint history?
All childcare providers in Jordan must be licensed by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) unless they care for only relatives' children or provide care for fewer than 10 hours a month. Licensing ensures providers meet health, safety, and developmental standards, including staff-to-child ratios, background checks, safe environments, and ongoing training. You can easily verify a provider's license status and review any past licensing violations or substantiated complaints through the Minnesota DHS Licensing Information Lookup website. This public portal is an essential tool for parents. You can search by the provider's name, facility name, or city. We strongly recommend using this resource before selecting a daycare to ensure you are choosing a properly regulated and reputable provider.
Are there any unique childcare options in Jordan that cater to specific needs, such as non-traditional hours, farm-based programs, or faith-based care?
Yes, Jordan offers a mix of traditional and specialized childcare options. While most centers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 6:30 am to 6:00 pm schedule, some in-home family providers may offer more flexible or non-traditional hours—it's important to inquire directly. Given Jordan's location in a more rural part of Scott County, there are a limited number of providers that may incorporate farm or nature-based learning into their curriculum. For faith-based care, Jordan is home to several church-affiliated preschools and daycare programs that integrate religious teachings. The best way to find these specialized options is to use the Minnesota DHS search tool with filters and to contact the Jordan Chamber of Commerce or local parent groups on social media for personal recommendations.
What should I look for during a daycare tour in Jordan, and are there any local resources to help me compare options?
During a tour in Jordan, look beyond the basics. Observe the cleanliness and safety of the environment, the interaction between staff and children (are they engaged and responsive?), and the overall mood of the classroom. Ask about staff qualifications, turnover rates, daily schedules, meal plans, and their policies on sick children and discipline. Inquire about their outdoor play space and how often children go outside. For local comparison help, utilize the "Parent Aware" rating system, a Minnesota voluntary quality rating program for early learning programs. A 4-star rating is the highest. You can also contact the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCRR) agency for Scott County, which serves Jordan. They can provide free, personalized referrals and checklists for evaluating providers. Finally, talk to other Jordan parents at community spots like the library or parks for firsthand insights.