The Best Daycare Centers in Norcross, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Norcross. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Norcross
Little Learners Child Care Center
Independent
Little Learners Child Care Center serves the Norcross area from nearby Elbow Lake with a comprehensive early childhood education program. The center features a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. Certified early childhood educators maintain low teacher-to-child ratios, with all staff trained in CPR, First Aid, and early childhood development. The facility includes secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Parents praise the center's strong communication, nutritious meal program, and individualized attention to each child's developmental needs.
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Kiddie Korner Child Care
Independent
Kiddie Korner Child Care has been serving the Norcross region for over 15 years with a focus on creating a nurturing, home-like environment. The center implements Creative Curriculum with emphasis on hands-on learning experiences and developmental milestones tracking. Qualified early childhood professionals provide individualized care with emphasis on language development, motor skills, and social interaction. The facility features secure environments, modern learning materials, and structured daily routines that balance educational activities with play. The center is noted for its family-oriented approach and strong community connections.
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Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center serves the greater Norcross area from Morris with a research-based educational approach that blends Montessori principles with structured academic preparation. The center features state-licensed early childhood teachers with specialized training in child development and inclusive education practices. Curriculum includes literacy-rich environments, mathematics readiness, science exploration, and creative arts. The facility offers secure, technology-enhanced classrooms, multiple outdoor play areas, and dedicated spaces for different developmental stages. Parents consistently praise the center's transparent communication, experienced staff retention, and excellent school readiness outcomes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Norcross, MN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Norcross, MN, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Norcross and the surrounding Grant County area, full-time daycare for an infant (under 2 years) typically ranges from $175 to $225 per week, while toddler care (ages 2-3) is slightly lower, averaging $150 to $200 per week. These rates are generally more affordable than in larger Minnesota cities but can vary based on the type of provider (licensed center vs. in-home). For financial assistance, Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is the primary resource. Eligibility is based on family size and income, and applications are processed through the Grant County Human Services office. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Norcross is properly licensed and check their compliance history?
All licensed childcare providers in Minnesota are regulated by the Department of Human Services (DHS). To verify a provider's license and review their history, you can use the online "Look Up a License" tool on the Minnesota DHS website. This public portal allows you to search by provider name, city (Norcross), or zip code. The report will show the license status, capacity, ages served, and any serious licensing violations or corrective actions from the past three years. For in-home providers (Family Child Care), you can also contact the local DHS licensor for Region 4, which covers Grant County, for additional context. It's highly recommended to use this tool as a first step in your search.
Are there any licensed childcare centers in Norcross, or are most options in-home family providers?
Due to Norcross's small, rural population, there are no large, standalone childcare centers within the city limits. The primary childcare options are licensed Family Child Care homes, which are operated out of a provider's residence. These in-home settings often offer mixed-age groups and a home-like environment, which can be beneficial for children. For center-based care, parents in Norcross often look to nearby larger towns such as Elbow Lake (approx. 15 miles away) or Morris (approx. 25 miles away). It's common for families in the area to commute a short distance for childcare, so expanding your search radius is a practical necessity.
What is the waitlist situation like for daycare in Norcross, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Given the limited number of providers in a small community like Norcross, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant care. It is strongly advised to begin your search and make inquiries at least 6 to 9 months before you need care, and even earlier if you are expecting a new baby. Many licensed family childcare homes in the area may only have capacity for 1-2 infants at a time, leading to long waits. When contacting providers, be sure to ask directly about their current waitlist length and if they charge a fee to hold a spot. Being proactive and putting your name on multiple lists is a common strategy for parents in rural Minnesota.
What are some local resources or networks in Grant County to help me find and evaluate childcare options near Norcross?
A key local resource is the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency that serves Grant County, which is part of the Lakes and Prairies Community Action Partnership. They maintain a free, updated database of licensed providers in the county, including those in Norcross. You can contact them for a customized referral list and get guidance on what to look for during a visit. Additionally, connecting with other parents through local community hubs like the Norcross Community Center, the Grant County Herald newspaper's community bulletins, or local Facebook groups (e.g., "Grant County, MN Chatter") can provide word-of-mouth recommendations and insights into provider reputations that you won't find online.