The Best Daycare Centers in Morristown, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Morristown. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Morristown
The Learning Tree Child Care Center
Independent
The Learning Tree provides comprehensive early childhood education with a play-based curriculum that emphasizes social-emotional development and school readiness. Their experienced staff includes certified early childhood educators who create individualized learning plans for each child. The facility features secure, age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play areas, and nutritious meal programs. They maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios and offer flexible scheduling options. What sets them apart is their strong focus on nature-based learning and community involvement, serving families throughout Rice County including Morristown.
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Kiddie Korner Child Care & Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Korner offers a structured educational program that balances academic preparation with creative expression and physical development. Their curriculum includes STEM activities, literacy development, and character education. The center features secure facilities with monitored access, modern learning materials, and dedicated spaces for different age groups. Staff members are CPR/first-aid certified and participate in ongoing professional development. Parents consistently praise their excellent communication and the warm, nurturing environment. They serve as a reliable childcare option for Morristown area families seeking quality early education.
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New Horizons Academy
Independent
New Horizons Academy provides a comprehensive early childhood program with a research-based curriculum that focuses on whole-child development. Their approach integrates academic learning with social skills, physical activity, and creative arts. The facility includes secure, developmentally-appropriate classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and specialized learning centers. Their qualified teaching staff maintains small class sizes and individualized attention. The center is known for its inclusive environment, cultural diversity awareness, and strong parent partnerships. They offer transportation services that make them accessible to Morristown families seeking high-quality childcare.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Morristown, MN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Morristown, MN, and how can I verify a provider's license?
In Morristown, Minnesota, all licensed childcare providers must meet the regulations set by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS). This includes family childcare (in-home) providers and childcare centers. Key requirements include background checks for all adults in the home or center, health and safety training (including CPR and first aid), annual inspections for compliance with fire, health, and safety codes, and adherence to staff-to-child ratios based on age. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the "Find Child Care" lookup tool on the Minnesota DHS website, which shows the provider's license type, any licensing actions, and their current status. You can also contact the DHS Licensing Division directly for the most current information.
What is the typical cost range for full-time daycare in Morristown, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Morristown and the surrounding rural areas of Minnesota, costs can vary. For a licensed family childcare home, full-time care for an infant or toddler typically ranges from $150 to $225 per week. Center-based care in nearby larger towns like St. Peter or Mankato may be higher, often $225-$350 per week, but may offer more structured programs. Financial assistance is primarily available through the Minnesota Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which is administered by Watonwan County Human Services (Morristown is in Watonwan County). Eligibility is based on family income, size, and need for care due to work or education. It's crucial to apply through the county and get approved before selecting a provider, as not all providers accept CCAP.
How common are waitlists for daycare in Morristown, and what's the best strategy for securing a spot?
Due to the smaller, rural nature of Morristown, licensed daycare slots, especially for infants and toddlers, can be limited and often have waitlists. Many families rely on in-home family childcare providers, who may only have capacity for 6-10 children total. The best strategy is to start your search early—ideally 6-12 months before you need care, if possible. Contact multiple providers directly to inquire about openings and get on their waitlists. Be prepared to be flexible. Also, consider expanding your search to nearby communities like Madelia, St. James, or even St. Peter, which may have more options but involve a commute.
What are some key questions to ask a potential in-home daycare provider in Morristown, given the rural setting?
Beyond standard questions about curriculum and daily routines, parents in Morristown should ask location-specific questions. These include: "What is your plan for severe weather (like blizzards or tornadoes) and how will you communicate closures?" "Given our rural location, what is your policy on outdoor play and exposure to farm equipment or animals if your property is near agricultural land?" "How do you handle transportation or field trips, if any, given the distances to parks or libraries?" Also, ask about backup care plans if the provider gets sick, as alternative options in a small town are scarce. Finally, inquire about their network with other local providers for support and resources.
Are there any unique childcare options or programs in Morristown that cater to agricultural families or non-traditional hours?
Morristown's strong agricultural community means some providers may offer more flexibility for farm families, but structured "non-traditional hour" care is limited. Some licensed family childcare homes may offer early morning, evening, or occasional weekend care by private arrangement. There is no dedicated 24-hour center in the immediate area. For school-age children, the Morristown Public School district offers School-Age Care (SAC) programs before and after school, which is vital for working parents. For infants and toddlers, parents often need to build a patchwork solution, combining a primary provider with family help or a nanny share with another local family, especially during peak farming seasons like planting and harvest.