The Best Daycare Centers in Lake Hubert, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lake Hubert. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lake Hubert
Bright Horizons at Baxter
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Baxter is a highly-regarded early education center serving the Lake Hubert area with research-based curriculum and comprehensive developmental programs. The center features age-appropriate learning environments with dedicated infant rooms, toddler classrooms, and preschool spaces. Their World at Their Fits curriculum emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and social-emotional development through hands-on learning. Teachers hold early childhood credentials and maintain low teacher-to-child ratios. The facility includes secure entry systems, modern playgrounds with safety surfaces, and nutritious meal programs. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, experienced staff, and the visible developmental progress children make.
Daycare Services:
New Horizon Academy - Brainerd
New Horizon Academy
New Horizon Academy's Brainerd location provides comprehensive childcare services to Lake Hubert families with their well-established educational programs. The center offers a structured curriculum that balances academic preparation with social development, including their proprietary Early Foundations curriculum for infants through preschoolers. Features include secure keypad entry, daily electronic communication with parents, large outdoor play areas, and enrichment programs in music and movement. Staff members receive ongoing professional development and maintain CPR/first aid certifications. The center is known for its clean, organized environment and strong emphasis on creating nurturing relationships between teachers and children.
Daycare Services:
Pequot Lakes KinderCare
KinderCare Learning Companies
Pequot Lakes KinderCare serves the Lake Hubert community with their nationally-recognized early childhood education programs located just minutes away. The center implements KinderCare's balanced learning approach that combines teacher-directed instruction with child-initiated activities across literacy, math, science, and creative arts. Special features include phonics-based reading readiness programs, STEM learning stations, and inclusive classrooms that accommodate diverse learning needs. The facility maintains high safety standards with secured entrances, fenced playgrounds, and comprehensive health protocols. Teachers participate in continuous training and many hold degrees in early childhood education. Families appreciate the consistent routines, transparent communication, and the center's commitment to each child's individual growth.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lake Hubert, MN
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Lake Hubert, MN, and how do I verify a provider's license?
In Lake Hubert and the surrounding Brainerd Lakes area, licensed childcare primarily comes in two forms: licensed family childcare homes (caring for up to 10 children in a residential setting) and licensed child care centers. Due to Lake Hubert's smaller, lakeside community size, family childcare homes are more common than large centers. To verify a provider's license, you must use the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) Licensing Information Lookup. This online tool shows the provider's license status, capacity, any licensing violations, and the date of their last review. You can also contact the DHS Northern Licensing Division directly, as they oversee Crow Wing County. Always confirm licensing, as it ensures the provider meets Minnesota's health, safety, and staff training standards.
Are there typically long waitlists for childcare in Lake Hubert, and what's the best strategy for securing a spot?
Yes, waitlists for quality, licensed childcare in Lake Hubert and the broader Brainerd Lakes region can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 18 months, especially for infant care. This is due to high seasonal demand from both year-round residents and families with seasonal homes. The best strategy is to start your search early—ideally during pregnancy. Contact multiple licensed family childcare homes and nearby centers in communities like Nisswa or Pequot Lakes. Get on multiple waitlists, but be prepared for non-refundable deposit fees. Follow up with providers every few months to express continued interest. For more immediate needs, consider expanding your search to include licensed providers in neighboring towns or exploring a nanny share with other local families.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare for an infant or toddler in Lake Hubert, MN?
Costs in Lake Hubert are generally aligned with regional averages for Crow Wing County. For a licensed family childcare home, you can expect to pay approximately $175 to $250 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. A child care center in a nearby town like Brainerd or Baxter may range from $225 to $325 per week. These rates are typically lower than the Twin Cities metro but reflect the high demand in a popular resort area. Be sure to ask what is included in the weekly rate (meals, snacks, supplies). Financial assistance may be available through Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families, administered through the Crow Wing County Community Services department.
How does the seasonal tourism in the Brainerd Lakes Area affect childcare availability and operations in Lake Hubert?
The summer tourism surge significantly impacts childcare. Many providers, especially licensed family homes, may have enrolled children of year-round residents and have limited or no summer openings. Conversely, some providers may offer special summer-only programs, but these fill quickly. It's crucial to discuss a provider's year-round policy during your tour. Ask if they prioritize year-round families over seasonal ones and if their hours, rates, or enrollment change between summer and winter. Traffic around Lake Hubert increases dramatically in summer, so also inquire about drop-off/pick-up flexibility and any adjusted schedules. Planning for consistent, year-round care requires clear communication about these seasonal dynamics.
What local resources or organizations in Crow Wing County can help me find and evaluate childcare options near Lake Hubert?
Your primary local resource is **Child Care Aware of Minnesota**, which serves the region. Their referral specialists can provide customized lists of licensed providers in your specific zip code (56449) and surrounding areas. They also offer guidance on what to look for during a visit. Additionally, the **Crow Wing County Community Services** department can provide information on licensing and the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP). For networking and personal recommendations, connect with local parent groups on social media, such as "Brainerd Lakes Area Moms" on Facebook, or inquire at the **Lake Hubert Community Center** or the **Nisswa Family Center**. These local hubs often have bulletin boards with provider information and can offer community insights.