The Best Daycare Centers in Lastrup, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lastrup. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lastrup
Little Falls Community Child Care
Independent Non-Profit
Little Falls Community Child Care is a highly-regarded non-profit center known for its comprehensive early childhood education programs. The center employs a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation, focusing on social-emotional development and school readiness. All lead teachers hold Minnesota early childhood credentials, and the center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios. The facility features secure access systems, nutritious meal programs, and age-appropriate outdoor play areas. Parents consistently praise the center's warm environment, experienced staff, and strong communication practices that keep families involved in their children's development.
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Pierz Early Childhood Family Center
Independent
The Pierz Early Childhood Family Center offers a unique blend of childcare and family education services, serving the Lastrup area with a focus on holistic child development. The center utilizes a research-based curriculum that incorporates Montessori-inspired activities and developmental appropriate practices. Staff members include licensed early childhood teachers with specialized training in infant and toddler development. The facility features secure classrooms, modern learning materials, and a fenced outdoor playground. The center is particularly noted for its strong parent involvement programs and community partnerships, with many reviews highlighting the caring staff and excellent preparation for kindergarten.
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Kindercare Learning Center - Brainerd
Kindercare Education
This Kindercare Learning Center location serves families across central Minnesota, including Lastrup residents, with a nationally-recognized early childhood curriculum. The center employs a balanced learning approach that combines academic preparation with social development activities. All teachers meet Minnesota licensing requirements, with many holding degrees in early childhood education. The facility includes secure keypad entry, dedicated age-based classrooms, and developmentally appropriate learning centers. Parents consistently report high satisfaction with the center's communication, safety protocols, and the visible progress children make in literacy and social skills. The center also offers flexible scheduling and enrichment programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lastrup, MN
What types of licensed childcare options are available in and around Lastrup, MN?
In Lastrup and the surrounding Todd County area, parents typically have access to a few primary types of licensed childcare. These include licensed family childcare homes, which are smaller, home-based settings often caring for up to 10 children. Given Lastrup's small, rural community, these are the most common. For center-based care, parents may need to look in nearby larger towns like Long Prairie or Little Falls, which are within a reasonable commuting distance. The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) licenses all providers, and you can use their online "Find a Child Care" tool to search for licensed options by zip code (56345 for Lastrup). It's also common in rural areas like ours to find certified license-exempt providers for more flexible or occasional care.
How long are waitlists for daycare in Lastrup, and how early should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small town like Lastrup, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant care. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search during pregnancy, ideally by the second trimester. For family childcare homes, which may only have one or two infant slots, waitlists of 6 to 12 months are not uncommon. Contacting providers as early as possible to get on their interest list is crucial. Be prepared to expand your search radius to include neighboring communities such as Browerville, Grey Eagle, or Swanville to increase your options and potentially reduce wait times.
What is the average cost of childcare in Lastrup, and are there financial assistance programs?
In Todd County, which includes Lastrup, the average cost for full-time childcare in a family home setting typically ranges from $150 to $225 per week per child. Infant care is often at the higher end of that range. Center-based care in nearby towns can be slightly more expensive. Minnesota offers several financial assistance programs. The most prominent is the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), administered by Todd County Family Services. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or education). You can apply through the county office in Long Prairie. Additionally, you may qualify for federal tax credits like the Child and Dependent Care Credit.
What should I look for when touring a family childcare home in Lastrup?
When touring a home-based provider in our community, look beyond the cozy setting. First, verify their current Minnesota DHS license is posted and check for any past licensing violations online. Ask about their daily schedule, philosophy on discipline and learning, and emergency preparedness for our rural location (e.g., severe weather, power outages). Observe how the provider interacts with the children and check that the home is childproofed and has a safe, designated outdoor play area. Inquire about their policies on sick children, given the proximity in a small setting, and their backup plan if they are ill. Don't hesitate to ask for references from other local parents—word-of-mouth is powerful in a tight-knit town like Lastrup.
Are there any unique resources or programs for finding childcare in a rural area like Lastrup?
Yes, there are specific resources tailored for rural Minnesota families. A key resource is the **Child Care Aware of Minnesota** referral service. You can call their hotline or use their website to get personalized referrals for licensed providers in your area, including Lastrup and Todd County. They can also help you understand licensing and financial assistance. Locally, connecting with the **Todd County Public Health** department or the **Long Prairie Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE)** program can provide leads and support. Furthermore, community hubs like the Lastrup Co-op, church bulletins, and local Facebook groups (e.g., "Lastrup Community" or "Todd County Talk") are often where providers post openings and parents share recommendations, making them invaluable for networking in our rural setting.