The Best Daycare Centers in Lakeland, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lakeland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lakeland
Primrose School of Woodbury
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Woodbury offers a nationally accredited Balanced Learning® curriculum that blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The facility features age-appropriate learning environments, secure entry systems, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Their approach focuses on character development, literacy, and STEM activities, with teachers holding early childhood education credentials. The center provides nutritious meals and maintains low student-teacher ratios, serving families throughout the Woodbury area and nearby communities including Lakeland.
Daycare Services:
New Horizon Academy - Stillwater
New Horizon Academy
New Horizon Academy in Stillwater provides comprehensive early childhood education with a research-based curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, certified teachers with early childhood degrees, and developmentally appropriate classrooms. Their program includes daily communication with parents, nutritious meals prepared on-site, and outdoor learning environments. As part of Minnesota's largest childcare provider, they maintain high standards for safety and quality, serving families from Lakeland and surrounding communities.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Woodbury
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Woodbury offers a play-based F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that promotes social, emotional, and academic development. The facility features bright, modern classrooms, secure entry systems, and multiple outdoor play areas. All teachers are early childhood education professionals who receive ongoing training in child development and safety protocols. The curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development, with daily updates provided to parents through a proprietary mobile app. Serving the broader Woodbury area including Lakeland families, the school maintains NAEYC-accredited standards for excellence in early childhood education.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lakeland, MN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Lakeland, MN, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Lakeland, MN, full-time daycare costs can vary significantly based on the child's age and the type of facility. For an infant at a licensed center, parents can expect to pay between $1,400 to $1,800 per month. For toddlers and preschoolers, costs typically range from $1,100 to $1,500 per month. Licensed family childcare homes in the area often offer slightly lower rates. It's important to note that Lakeland, being part of the Twin Cities metro area, experiences higher childcare costs than rural parts of Minnesota. For financial assistance, Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is the primary resource for eligible families based on income. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees. We recommend contacting the Washington County Community Services Department or checking the Minnesota Department of Human Services website for the most current CCAP eligibility guidelines and application process.
How long are daycare waitlists typically in Lakeland, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Due to high demand and limited licensed childcare slots in Lakeland and the surrounding St. Croix River Valley area, waitlists can be substantial, especially for infant care. It is not uncommon for popular centers or highly-regarded family childcare homes to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. For infant care, we strongly recommend beginning your search and getting on waitlists as early as your second trimester of pregnancy. For toddler or preschool openings, starting your search at least 4-6 months in advance is advisable. Many facilities in Lakeland maintain continuous waitlists, so it's wise to contact multiple providers. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee, which is a common practice locally.
What are the main differences between licensed childcare centers and licensed family childcare homes in Lakeland?
In Lakeland, parents typically choose between two main licensed options. Licensed Childcare Centers are facilities in commercial or dedicated buildings, often with multiple staff, structured classrooms, and set operating hours (e.g., 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM). They may offer more peer interaction and specialized curricula. Licensed Family Childcare Homes operate out of the provider's residence, with a smaller, mixed-age group of children (up to 10, including the provider's own children under age 12). This setting often provides a more home-like, flexible environment and may be more accommodating for non-standard work hours. Both are regulated by the Minnesota Department of Human Services and must meet the same core health, safety, and training standards. Your choice may depend on your child's temperament, your schedule, and your preference for environment.
Are there any unique outdoor or nature-based childcare programs available in the Lakeland area?
Yes, the natural setting of Lakeland along the St. Croix River makes it conducive for nature-based programming. While specific "forest school" models are more common in nearby cities like Stillwater or the Twin Cities, several local providers in Lakeland prioritize extensive outdoor play and exploration. Some family childcare homes have large, natural yards, and centers may have partnerships with local parks. When touring facilities, ask about their daily outdoor time policy, even in colder Minnesota weather, and if they incorporate elements like gardening, nature walks, or outdoor learning stations. This emphasis aligns well with the community's access to parks like Lakeland Hills Park and the St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park.
What should I look for during a daycare tour in Lakeland to ensure it meets Minnesota's quality and safety standards?
During a tour, first verify the provider's license is current and posted, as required by Minnesota law. Look for clear evidence of safety: secured entrances, covered electrical outlets, safe sleep practices for infants (cribs with firm mattresses, no loose bedding), and age-appropriate, well-maintained toys and equipment. Check that cleaning supplies and medications are locked away. Observe staff-child interactions; providers should be engaged, responsive, and seem to enjoy their work. Ask about staff qualifications, including ongoing training in CPR, First Aid, and SUIDS/Abusive Head Trauma, which are state mandates. Inquire about their emergency plans for severe Minnesota weather and their sick child policy. A quality program will welcome these questions and be transparent about their practices and policies.
Childcare Insights for Lakeland
Finding the right childcare is one of the most significant decisions a family makes, and for parents in Lakeland, Minnesota, the search for "private daycares near me" comes with its own unique considerations. Nestled along the scenic St. Croix River, our community offers a blend of small-town charm and proximity to larger metro areas, which shapes the childcare landscape. Your search is not just about convenience; it’s about finding a nurturing extension of your family that aligns with your values and your child’s needs.
When beginning your search in Lakeland, it’s helpful to understand the local options. Many private daycares in our area are often licensed family childcare homes, which provide a cozy, home-like environment with smaller group sizes. This can be an excellent fit for young children, offering consistency and a family setting. There are also private center-based options in nearby communities like Stillwater, Woodbury, and Hudson, which some Lakeland families choose for their structured programs and extended hours. A key first step is to define your priorities: Are you looking for a location strictly within Lakeland for a shorter commute, or are you willing to drive a few extra minutes towards a neighboring town for a specific educational philosophy or schedule?
Given Lakeland’s location, many parents commute to jobs in the Twin Cities or western Wisconsin. Therefore, inquiring about hours of operation and flexibility is crucial. A private daycare that opens early or accommodates occasional late pick-ups can be a lifesaver for navigating traffic on I-94 or the St. Croix River crossings. Don’t hesitate to ask about their policies for local school district snow days or delays, as weather can impact schedules here. Furthermore, explore the opportunities for outdoor play. The best private daycares in our area will take full advantage of Minnesota’s beautiful seasons, whether it’s summer explorations or winter fun, fostering a love for the natural world right in our own backyard.
Building your list requires local legwork. While online directories are a start, some of the most trusted recommendations in a close-knit community like Lakeland come from personal connections. Talk to neighbors at the Lakeland City Hall community events or other parents at the local parks. These firsthand accounts are invaluable. Once you have a shortlist, schedule in-person visits. This allows you to observe the caregiver-child interactions, ask about their educational approach, and get a feel for the daily rhythm. Pay attention to the safety and cleanliness of the environment, and trust your instincts about the warmth and professionalism of the provider.
Finally, remember that the right fit will give you peace of mind. Look for a provider who communicates openly and makes you feel like a partner in your child’s day. They should be willing to discuss how they handle the milestones and challenges specific to your child’s age. Choosing a private daycare in Lakeland is about finding a place where your child will thrive, build friendships, and feel secure, allowing you to start your day with confidence. Your careful search will help ensure those early years are filled with growth, discovery, and joy right here in our community.