The Best Daycare Centers in Merrifield, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Merrifield. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Merrifield
Little Blessings Child Care & Preschool
Little Blessings Child Care
Little Blessings is a highly-regarded Christian-based childcare center serving the Merrifield area with a comprehensive educational program. They feature a structured curriculum that includes literacy development, math readiness, science exploration, and social-emotional learning. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios with qualified staff holding early childhood credentials. Their facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and modern safety systems. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, strong communication, and the center's focus on developmental milestones. The program emphasizes character development alongside academic preparation.
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New Horizon Academy
New Horizon Academy
As part of Minnesota's largest childcare provider, this New Horizon Academy location brings proven educational excellence to the Brainerd Lakes area serving Merrifield families. They implement a research-based curriculum focusing on early literacy, STEM concepts, and social development. The center features highly qualified teachers with ongoing professional development, secure entry systems, and comprehensive health protocols. Their program includes nutritious meal service, indoor gymnasium, and structured outdoor learning environments. Parents highlight the consistent quality, engaging activities, and the center's commitment to individualized attention for each child.
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Kindercare Learning Center at Brainerd
Kindercare Education
This Kindercare location provides nationally-recognized early childhood education to the Merrifield community with a comprehensive curriculum that balances academic preparation and social development. Their program includes phonics-based reading readiness, hands-on math and science activities, and character education. The center features dedicated learning centers, secure playgrounds, and experienced teachers with early childhood degrees. Safety is prioritized with coded entry systems, regular safety drills, and strict health protocols. Families appreciate the structured learning environment, regular progress updates, and the center's focus on preparing children for kindergarten success through play-based and guided learning experiences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Merrifield, MN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Merrifield, MN, and are there any local assistance programs?
In Merrifield, MN, full-time daycare costs can vary significantly based on the provider type and the child's age. For an infant, you can expect to pay between $175 to $250 per week at a licensed family childcare home. Center-based care tends to be higher, often ranging from $225 to $325 per week. For toddlers and preschoolers, rates may drop slightly. It's important to note that as a rural community in Crow Wing County, options are more limited than in larger cities, which can impact pricing and availability. For financial assistance, Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is available to eligible families in Cass County (where Merrifield is located). You can apply through the Cass County Health, Human, and Veterans Services department. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How can I verify a daycare provider's license and inspection history in Merrifield?
All licensed childcare providers in Merrifield, MN, are regulated by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS). The primary tool for verification is the **Minnesota Licensing Information Lookup** website. You can search by provider name, city (Merrifield), or license number. This public portal provides crucial details including the license status (active, suspended, etc.), capacity, ages served, and any serious licensing violations or corrective actions. For family childcare, which is common in rural areas like Merrifield, ensure they are licensed as a "Family Child Care" provider. You can also contact the DHS Licensing Division's Northern Region office, which oversees Cass County, for specific questions. Always visit the facility in person and ask to see their current license, which must be posted.
Are there any licensed daycare centers in Merrifield, or is the care primarily in-home?
Merrifield is a small, unincorporated community, so licensed childcare options are primarily **licensed family childcare homes** operated in a provider's residence. There are no large, standalone daycare centers within Merrifield's immediate boundaries. Parents often look to nearby larger towns for center-based options, such as in Brainerd or Pine River, which are within a 15-30 minute drive. The family childcare homes in Merrifield offer a smaller, home-like environment which can be ideal for young children, often with mixed-age groups. To find these providers, use the Minnesota DHS lookup tool filtered for Merrifield or Cass County, and check local community boards, Facebook groups like "Merrifield, MN Community," or ask for referrals at the Merrifield Post Office or local churches.
What is the average waitlist time for daycare in the Merrifield area, and how can I secure a spot?
Due to the limited number of providers in a rural community like Merrifield, waitlists can be lengthy, especially for infant care. It is not uncommon for waitlists to be **6 to 12 months long**, or even longer for highly sought-after providers. We recommend starting your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. To secure a spot, contact providers directly to inquire about their enrollment process. Many will require a non-refundable deposit or registration fee to hold a future spot. Be prepared to get on multiple waitlists, including providers in neighboring communities like Pequot Lakes or Breezy Point. Building a personal connection with providers through a visit can also be beneficial. Persistence and flexibility with your start date are key in this market.
What unique factors should I consider when choosing a daycare in a rural area like Merrifield?
Choosing daycare in rural Merrifield involves considering factors distinct from urban settings. First, **transportation and distance** are critical; you may need to drive further, so consider the provider's location relative to your home or commute. Second, **backup care** plans are essential, as a single provider's illness or vacation can close their home, and alternative options are scarce. Third, inquire about their **emergency protocols** given the distance to major medical facilities. Fourth, many local providers integrate **nature-based play** and have large outdoor spaces, which is a great benefit. Finally, the close-knit community means reputation and word-of-mouth referrals are incredibly valuable—talk to neighbors and local parents. Also, verify their license includes any transportation services if they offer field trips.