The Best Daycare Centers in Lismore, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lismore. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lismore
New Horizon Academy - Worthington
New Horizon Academy
New Horizon Academy in Worthington is a highly-regarded childcare center known for its research-based curriculum that emphasizes early literacy, STEM education, and social-emotional development. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor play areas designed for safe exploration. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing training in child development best practices. The center offers nutritious meals and snacks through their meal program and maintains low teacher-to-child ratios to ensure individualized attention. Parents praise the center's consistent communication through daily reports and a parent app, as well as its inclusive environment that celebrates diversity. With a strong focus on school readiness and a play-based learning approach, this center has built a reputation for excellence in southwestern Minnesota.
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Kids' Korner Child Care Center
Independent
Kids' Korner Child Care Center is a locally-owned facility celebrated for its family-oriented atmosphere and comprehensive developmental programs. The center implements a balanced curriculum that combines structured learning activities with creative play, focusing on cognitive, physical, and emotional growth. Safety is paramount with secured facilities, regular drills, and strict hygiene protocols. Qualified staff members have backgrounds in early childhood education and maintain CPR/first aid certifications. The center features stimulating indoor environments and spacious outdoor play areas, and they provide healthy meals aligned with USDA guidelines. Parents consistently highlight the center's warm, nurturing environment and strong community connections, making it a trusted choice for families in the Lismore area.
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Worthington Christian School Early Childhood Center
Worthington Christian School
Worthington Christian School Early Childhood Center offers a faith-based educational approach integrated with academic readiness skills. The curriculum emphasizes phonics, math concepts, and social development through hands-on learning and biblical principles. The facility includes modern classrooms, a dedicated playground, and safety features like surveillance cameras and controlled access. Teachers are certified in early childhood education and trained in developmental milestones tracking. The center promotes parent involvement through regular events and detailed progress reports. With a focus on character building and a supportive learning environment, it has earned high parent satisfaction for its dedicated staff and holistic child development programs, serving families from Lismore and surrounding communities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lismore, MN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Lismore, MN, and how can I verify a provider's license?
In Lismore, Minnesota, all childcare providers caring for unrelated children must be licensed by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS), unless they are legally exempt (like caring for only one family's children). Licensed providers must meet strict standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and ongoing training. To verify a provider's license and check their compliance history, you can use the "Look Up a Child Care Provider" search tool on the Minnesota DHS website. You can also contact the DHS Licensing Division directly. It's highly recommended to choose a licensed provider in Lismore to ensure your child's safety and a regulated standard of care.
What is the typical cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Lismore, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Lismore and the surrounding Nobles County area, full-time daycare for an infant can range from approximately $175 to $250 per week, while toddler care is typically slightly lower, around $150 to $225 per week. Costs can vary based on the type of care (center-based vs. in-home), the provider's specific programs, and hours of operation. For financial assistance, Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps eligible low- and middle-income families pay for childcare. You apply through the Nobles County Community Services agency. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are daycare waitlists typically in Lismore, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the limited number of licensed providers in a smaller community like Lismore, waitlists for infant and toddler spots can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months or more. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as soon as you know you will need care, ideally during pregnancy or at least 9-12 months in advance. For preschool-age children, waitlists may be shorter but can still be several months. Proactively contacting all licensed centers and family childcare homes in Lismore and nearby towns like Adrian or Worthington is crucial to securing a spot.
What types of childcare options are available specifically within the city of Lismore, MN?
Lismore primarily offers licensed family childcare homes, where a provider cares for a small group of children in their own residence. These are often the most accessible option within the city limits. There are currently no large, center-based daycare facilities located directly in Lismore. For center-based care, parents often look to nearby larger communities such as Adrian (approx. 7 miles away) or Worthington (approx. 20 miles away). Some families also utilize legally unlicensed "relative, neighbor, or friend" care for flexibility. Checking the Minnesota DHS provider map is the best way to see an updated list of all licensed options in and immediately around Lismore.
Are there any childcare programs in Lismore that offer part-time, drop-in, or after-school care for school-age children?
Finding part-time or drop-in care in a small town like Lismore can be challenging, as most family childcare homes require set, full-time schedules to maintain their enrollment and income. For school-age children, the Lismore Public School may offer a School-Age Care (SAC) program before and after school, which is a common solution in Minnesota communities. You should contact the Lismore School District office directly to inquire about SAC availability, hours, and costs. For occasional drop-in needs, your best bet is to network with other local parents or inquire with licensed providers if they have any flexibility for children of existing families.