The Best Daycare Centers in Long Lake, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Long Lake. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Long Lake
The Goddard School of Long Lake
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Long Lake offers a premier early childhood education program grounded in the F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience), which emphasizes play-based learning and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) activities. The center features highly qualified teachers with degrees in early childhood education, low student-to-teacher ratios, and a safe, nurturing environment with secure entry systems and daily cleanliness protocols. Parents praise the school's focus on individualized development, regular communication through a proprietary app, and enriching indoor and outdoor play spaces that support physical and cognitive growth. The curriculum is designed to prepare children for kindergarten with a balance of academic readiness and social-emotional skills.
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KinderCare at Minnetonka
KinderCare Education
KinderCare at Minnetonka provides a comprehensive early learning curriculum that integrates literacy, math, and social skills through hands-on activities and structured play. The center is known for its strong safety record, including secured facilities, background-checked staff, and emergency preparedness drills. Teachers hold certifications in early childhood development and participate in ongoing training to support developmental milestones. The program includes nutritious meal options, inclusive environments that celebrate diversity, and flexible scheduling to accommodate family needs. Parents highlight the center's engaging learning materials, consistent parent-teacher communication, and vibrant outdoor play areas that encourage physical activity and exploration.
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New Horizon Academy - Wayzata
New Horizon Academy
New Horizon Academy in Wayzata focuses on a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum that emphasizes social-emotional learning, language development, and school readiness. The center boasts low teacher-to-child ratios, certified educators with specialized training in early childhood education, and a safe, clean facility with modern security features. Programs include age-appropriate learning centers, outdoor playgrounds, and activities that foster creativity and critical thinking. The academy is praised for its transparent communication with families, nutritious meals and snacks, and inclusive approach that supports children of all backgrounds. Parent satisfaction is high due to the center's commitment to tracking developmental progress and providing a warm, engaging atmosphere.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Long Lake, MN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Long Lake, MN, and are there any local resources to help with affordability?
In Long Lake and the surrounding western Twin Cities metro area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $350 to $450 per week, while toddler care is generally $300 to $400 per week. Preschool programs often cost slightly less. These rates are influenced by factors like the type of facility (center vs. in-home), staff-to-child ratios, and included amenities. For financial assistance, Minnesota offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) through Hennepin County, which eligible families can apply for. Additionally, many local providers participate in the state's Early Learning Scholarships program. It's also worth checking if your employer offers a Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
How long are waitlists for licensed daycare centers and in-home providers in Long Lake, and when should I start looking?
Waitlists in Long Lake and nearby communities like Orono and Wayzata can be significant, especially for infant spots in highly-rated centers. It's not uncommon for waitlists to be 6 to 12 months long, or even longer for popular providers. For in-home licensed family childcare, availability can be more variable but still competitive. We strongly recommend starting your search during your second trimester of pregnancy at the latest. When touring facilities, always ask for their specific waitlist policy, including any deposit requirements and how often you need to confirm your continued interest to stay on the list.
What specific licensing and safety regulations should I verify for a childcare provider in Minnesota?
All legal childcare providers in Long Lake must be licensed by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS). You should verify a provider's license is current and view their full licensing report, including any past violations, on the DHS Licensing Information Lookup website. Key Minnesota regulations include mandatory background checks for all staff, specific staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:7 for toddlers), annual training in Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID) and Abusive Head Trauma (AHT), and compliance with state health and safety standards. Also, ask about their emergency preparedness plan for situations like severe Minnesota weather or fires.
Are there unique seasonal or part-time childcare options available in Long Lake for school-aged children?
Yes, Long Lake offers several community-focused options for school-aged care. The Long Lake Parks and Recreation Department typically runs a popular and affordable Summer Adventure Club program for children entering grades K-5, which includes field trips and activities. For before and after-school care during the school year, the Orono School District (which serves Long Lake) partners with organizations like the YMCA to provide school-age care programs, often hosted at the elementary schools. Additionally, local organizations like the Long Lake Ice Arena and community education programs offer seasonal sports camps and workshops that can supplement childcare needs.
What is the difference between a licensed family childcare home and a child care center in Long Lake, and how do I decide which is right for my family?
Licensed Family Childcare Homes are run out of the provider's residence in your neighborhood, usually caring for a smaller, mixed-age group of up to 10 children (with specific infant limits). They often offer a more home-like environment, flexible hours, and potentially lower costs. Child Care Centers are commercial facilities, like those you might find in nearby Wayzata or Plymouth, offering structured classrooms by age, multiple staff, and often more extensive curricula and facilities. Your choice depends on your priorities: a family home may offer more consistency with a single caregiver, while a center might provide more social interaction with peers and structured preschool preparation. Tour both types in the Long Lake area to compare philosophies, environments, and daily routines.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Long Lake: