The Best Daycare Centers in Morris, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Morris. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Morris
University of Minnesota Morris Childcare Center
University of Minnesota Morris
The University of Minnesota Morris Childcare Center is a highly-regarded facility offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. Operating as part of the university's educational ecosystem, the center employs degreed early childhood educators and maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Their curriculum emphasizes play-based learning, social-emotional development, and school readiness. The facility features modern classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and follows rigorous safety protocols. What sets this center apart is its integration with university resources, including access to educational research and student teachers from the education department, providing a rich learning environment for children.
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Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center is a locally-owned childcare facility known for its nurturing environment and comprehensive educational approach. The center implements a structured curriculum that balances academic preparation with social development, using Creative Curriculum framework adapted for different age groups. Their qualified teaching staff maintains low student-teacher ratios and receives ongoing professional development. The facility includes age-appropriate learning spaces, secure outdoor playgrounds, and follows strict health and safety protocols. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, individualized attention to children's needs, and the warm, family-like atmosphere that makes children feel comfortable and supported.
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Lil' Cougar Care
Independent
Lil' Cougar Care specializes in preschool and school-age programming with a strong focus on early literacy and kindergarten readiness. The center uses a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic activities to prepare children for elementary school. Their curriculum emphasizes language development, early math concepts, and social skills through hands-on activities and creative exploration. The facility features dedicated learning centers, a literacy-rich environment, and safe outdoor play spaces. The center stands out for its strong community connections, regular parent-teacher communication, and flexible scheduling options that accommodate working families in the Morris area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Morris, MN
What are the typical costs for daycare in Morris, MN, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Morris, MN, daycare costs vary based on the child's age and the type of care. For a licensed family childcare home, you can expect to pay approximately $150-$225 per week for full-time care. Center-based programs may range from $175-$275 per week. Infant care is typically at the higher end of this scale. To help with these costs, Minnesota offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which is administered through Stevens County Human Services. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and need. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's recommended to contact providers directly and apply for CCAP through the county to explore all financial support options.
How long are daycare waitlists in Morris, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the limited number of licensed providers in a smaller community like Morris, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant and toddler spots. It's not uncommon for popular centers or highly-regarded family childcare homes to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. For expectant parents, we strongly recommend beginning your search as early as your second trimester. For families moving to the area or needing care on a specific timeline, contacting providers at least 9-12 months in advance is a prudent strategy. Be prepared to get on multiple waitlists and to check in periodically with providers to express your continued interest.
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Morris, and how can I verify a provider's license status?
All childcare providers in Morris must be licensed by the State of Minnesota's Department of Human Services (DHS) unless they care for only relatives' children or provide very limited care. Licensing ensures providers meet standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, training (including CPR and first aid), and background checks. To verify a provider's license status and view any past licensing actions, you can use the "Look Up a License" feature on the Minnesota DHS website. You can also contact the DHS Licensing Division directly. It's a critical step for parents to ensure the program is legally operating and in good standing with the state.
Are there part-time or non-traditional hour childcare options available in Morris for students or shift workers?
Finding part-time or non-traditional hour care (evenings, weekends, overnight) in Morris can be challenging due to the smaller market. The University of Minnesota Morris may have resources or lists for student parents, and some licensed family childcare providers may offer flexible or part-time schedules based on their current enrollment. For shift workers, it's essential to be upfront about your needs when contacting providers. Your best bet is to network with other parents and contact providers directly to inquire about flexibility. As a backup, exploring in-home nanny shares with other families in similar situations might be a viable alternative in this community.
What resources are available in Morris to help me find and evaluate local daycare options?
The primary resource for finding licensed childcare in Morris is through Child Care Aware of Minnesota. You can use their online search tool or call their referral line to get a customized list of providers in the Morris area (ZIP code 56267). Additionally, the Stevens County Public Health and Human Services department may have local information. For evaluation, always schedule in-person tours, ask for references from current parents, and use Minnesota's "Parent Aware" ratings—a voluntary quality rating system for early learning programs. While not all Morris providers are rated, those who are have a star rating (1-4 stars) that can help you compare quality indicators like curriculum and teacher training.