The Best Daycare Centers in Marine On Saint Croix, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Marine On Saint Croix. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Marine On Saint Croix
New Horizons Academy
New Horizons Academy
New Horizons Academy is a highly-regarded early childhood education center located just minutes from Marine On Saint Croix in Lake Elmo. They offer a comprehensive educational program with a research-based curriculum that focuses on cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and rigorous safety protocols. Their experienced teaching staff includes early childhood education professionals with specialized training in age-appropriate developmental practices. The facility includes spacious classrooms, dedicated outdoor play areas with age-appropriate equipment, and specialized learning centers for literacy, STEM, and creative arts. Parents consistently praise their excellent communication, nutritious meal program, and the center's ability to prepare children for kindergarten readiness.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Academy of Oakdale
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Oakdale provides premium educational childcare services to families in the Marine On Saint Croix area through their nationally recognized Life Essentials® curriculum. This academy emphasizes character development, social skills, and academic preparation through hands-on learning experiences. The facility maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios with lead teachers holding degrees in early childhood education or related fields. Safety features include secure entry systems, comprehensive emergency protocols, and regular safety drills. The curriculum integrates technology, literacy development, and STEM activities appropriate for each age group. Parents particularly appreciate the daily communication through their mobile app, the focus on health and nutrition, and the center's commitment to creating a nurturing environment that supports each child's individual development.
Daycare Services:
Primrose School of Woodbury
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Woodbury offers a premium early education experience for families in the Marine On Saint Croix region with their Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance. The school features a nationally accredited curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development and life skills. Their dedicated faculty includes experienced early childhood educators with ongoing professional development training. The state-of-the-art facility includes secure classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and specialized learning environments for music, art, and physical activity. Safety protocols include restricted access entry, comprehensive staff background checks, and regular safety assessments. The school is particularly noted for its strong parent partnerships, regular developmental assessments, and exceptional kindergarten readiness program that has earned outstanding feedback from local elementary schools.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Marine On Saint Croix, MN
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Marine On Saint Croix, MN, and how do I find them?
In Marine On Saint Croix and the surrounding Washington County area, your primary licensed options are licensed family childcare homes and childcare centers. Given Marine's small, semi-rural character, licensed family childcare homes operating out of a provider's residence are the most common local option. There are no large childcare centers within the village itself; parents often look to nearby communities like Stillwater, Scandia, or Forest Lake for center-based care. The best resource for finding licensed providers is Minnesota’s Department of Human Services (DHS) "Find a Child Care Provider" online search tool. You can filter by zip code (55047), type of care, and ages served. Additionally, contacting the local Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency for Washington County, which is part of Think Small, can provide personalized referrals and information on current openings.
Given the limited local providers, how long are typical waitlists for daycare in the Marine On Saint Croix area, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists in the Marine On Saint Croix area can vary significantly but are often lengthy, especially for infant care and popular family childcare homes. It's not uncommon for waitlists to be 6 to 12 months long, or even longer. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Be proactive: contact multiple providers in Marine and the neighboring towns, get on their waitlists even if the timing seems far off, and ask about their specific policies (e.g., if a deposit is required to hold a spot). Consider expanding your search radius to include Stillwater, Scandia, and Wyoming. Networking through local community groups, like the Marine Mills Folk School or the Marine General Store bulletin board, can sometimes yield leads on smaller, unadvertised in-home providers or nanny shares with other local families.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare for a toddler in Marine On Saint Croix, MN, and are there any financial assistance programs?
While costs can vary, the average cost for full-time toddler care in a licensed family childcare home in the Marine On Saint Croix/Washington County region ranges from approximately $225 to $325 per week. Care at a center in a nearby town like Stillwater tends to be higher, often between $300 and $400+ per week. Minnesota offers financial assistance through the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families based on income, household size, and need. You apply through Washington County Community Services. Additionally, all Minnesota families can benefit from the new Child and Dependent Care Credit on state taxes, and many can use a Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA) through their employer to pay for care with pre-tax dollars.
How does Minnesota state licensing ensure the safety and quality of home-based daycares in a small community like ours?
All licensed family childcare providers in Minnesota, including those in Marine On Saint Croix, must meet stringent state rules set by the Department of Human Services (DHS). Key requirements include: passing comprehensive background studies for all adults in the home, completing CPR and First Aid certification, adhering to strict child-to-staff ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:7 for preschoolers), completing ongoing training in topics like SIDS prevention and shaken baby syndrome, and maintaining a safe home environment with regular fire and health inspections. You can view a provider's full licensing record, including any past violations, on the DHS licensing lookup website. This state oversight provides a consistent baseline for safety and quality, which is especially important in areas with fewer informal networking options.
Are there any unique childcare considerations or resources for parents in Marine On Saint Croix related to its rural location and seasonal activities?
Yes, Marine On Saint Croix's location presents unique considerations. First, transportation is a key factor; most providers do not offer transportation, so you must factor in your commute to a provider's home or to a center in a neighboring town. Second, some family childcare providers may incorporate the natural environment into their programs, aligning with the community's outdoor-oriented culture—ask about outdoor playtime and activities. Third, be aware that some providers may follow the local school district (Stillwater Area Public Schools) calendar for major holidays and snow closures, which can impact your care schedule. Finally, for school-age care, the Marine Elementary School (part of Stillwater district) may offer before/after-school programs or you may need to arrange care with a local provider who offers school transportation to/from the school.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Marine On Saint Croix: