The Best Daycare Centers in Minnetonka, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Minnetonka. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Minnetonka
Primrose School of Minnetonka
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Minnetonka follows the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach, blending teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a focus on character development and academics. The curriculum includes literacy, math, science, social studies, and creative arts with dedicated foreign language instruction. All teachers meet state certification requirements and receive ongoing professional development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, engaging classrooms. Parents consistently praise the school's communication, structured environment, and the way children develop both academically and socially.
Daycare Services:
New Horizon Academy - Minnetonka
New Horizon Academy
New Horizon Academy in Minnetonka provides comprehensive early childhood education with a research-based curriculum that focuses on school readiness. The center emphasizes STEM learning, literacy development, and social-emotional skills through hands-on activities. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the center maintains low student-teacher ratios. The facility includes secure keypad entry, multiple playgrounds with safety surfaces, and classrooms equipped with modern learning materials. The center is known for its nutritious meal program, inclusive environment, and strong parent-teacher partnerships.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Minnetonka
Goddard Systems, Inc.
Located just minutes from Minnetonka in Plymouth, The Goddard School offers F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. The curriculum includes language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and technology, with additional enrichment programs in yoga, music, and Spanish. All teachers are professionally trained and participate in ongoing development. The state-of-the-art facility features secure entry systems, age-specific learning centers, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. The school is highly regarded for its individualized approach to learning, excellent communication with parents, and commitment to preparing children for elementary school success.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Minnetonka, MN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Minnetonka, MN, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Minnetonka, the cost of full-time daycare varies significantly based on the child's age and the type of facility. For an infant, you can expect to pay between $1,600 to $2,200 per month at a licensed center. For toddlers and preschoolers, costs typically range from $1,300 to $1,800 per month. In-home family childcare is often more affordable, ranging from $900 to $1,500 monthly. It's important to note that these are metro-area rates and Minnetonka tends to be on the higher end. For financial assistance, Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is available for eligible families based on income. Additionally, many local centers offer sliding scale fees or scholarships. We recommend contacting the Minnetonka Family Resource Center or checking with the Minnesota Department of Human Services for the most current eligibility guidelines and application processes.
How long are daycare waitlists in Minnetonka, and what's the best strategy for securing a spot?
Waitlists in Minnetonka can be lengthy, especially for highly-rated centers and for infant care, where spots are most limited. It's not uncommon for waitlists to be 6 to 12 months long, and sometimes even longer for popular facilities. The best strategy is to start your search and get on multiple lists as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before you need care. Be proactive: contact centers directly, schedule tours, and ask specific questions about their list (e.g., Is there a fee? How often do they update it? What is the typical turnover?). Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in surrounding neighborhoods like Hopkins, Excelsior, or Eden Prairie, as they may have shorter wait times and offer a more personalized setting.
What are the key differences between a Minnesota-licensed daycare center and a licensed family childcare home in Minnetonka?
Both are regulated by the Minnesota Department of Human Services, but they operate differently. Licensed **Centers** in Minnetonka are typically larger facilities in commercial buildings, with multiple staff and classrooms grouped by age. They often have structured curricula, more resources (like gyms or commercial kitchens), and stricter staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants). **Licensed Family Childcare Homes** operate out of the provider's residence, caring for a smaller, mixed-age group of up to 10 children (with no more than 2 under 16 months). They often offer a more home-like, flexible environment and may be more accommodating to non-standard hours. For parents in Minnetonka, centers might offer more programming and backup staff, while family homes can provide closer relationships and potentially more convenient locations in residential areas. You can verify the license and review any past violations for any provider on the Minnesota DHS Licensing Information Lookup website.
Are there any unique early childhood programs or resources in the Minnetonka area that daycares might partner with or incorporate?
Yes, Minnetonka is part of the Minnetonka Public School District (ISD 276), which offers renowned early childhood family education (ECFE) programs. Many local daycares and preschools align their curricula with the district's early learning standards to prepare children for Minnetonka schools. Furthermore, the area has excellent access to nature-based learning. Some providers incorporate regular outings to local parks like the Minnetonka Regional Park, the Noerenberg Gardens, or the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. There are also partnerships with community resources like the Minnetonka Community Center for swimming or gym time, and the Hennepin County Library system for storytime visits. When touring facilities, ask about their community partnerships and how they utilize Minnetonka's local assets in their daily programming.
What should I look for during a daycare tour in Minnetonka, and what are some red flags specific to Minnesota licensing standards?
During a tour, observe the cleanliness, safety (outlet covers, secure gates), and how staff interact with children—they should be engaged and responsive. Ask about staff qualifications, turnover rates, and their emergency procedures for Minnesota weather (e.g., tornado drills, severe winter storm policies). Specifically for Minnesota licensing, you should verify the license is current and posted. Key red flags include: **Ratio violations**—count the children and staff in a room to ensure they meet MN ratios; **Improper sleep environments for infants** (cribs should have firm mattresses with only a fitted sheet, and blankets/bumpers are not allowed); **Lack of a visible and detailed daily schedule;** and **Unsupervised outdoor play areas** that are not securely fenced. You can and should check a provider's licensing history online for any serious maltreatment or rule violations. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it likely is.