The Best Daycare Centers in Norwood, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Norwood. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Norwood
Norwood Young America Child Care Center
Independent
Norwood Young America Child Care Center is a highly-regarded local facility serving the Norwood community with comprehensive early childhood education programs. The center features a developmentally appropriate curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning, social-emotional development, and school readiness. Their qualified teaching staff maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and focuses on individualized attention. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and follows rigorous safety protocols. Parents consistently praise the center's nurturing environment, experienced staff, and strong communication. The center serves children from infancy through school-age with flexible scheduling options and emphasizes creating a home-like atmosphere while providing structured educational activities.
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Kiddie Korner Child Care & Learning Center
Independent
Located in nearby Cologne, Kiddie Korner serves families throughout the Norwood Young America area with a comprehensive early childhood program. The center employs a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation for kindergarten readiness. Their curriculum includes literacy development, math concepts, science exploration, and creative arts. The facility features secure, age-specific classrooms, modern learning materials, and safe outdoor play spaces. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified with ongoing professional development. Parents highlight the center's clean facilities, engaging curriculum, and the staff's dedication to each child's individual development. The center maintains excellent safety records and offers nutritional meal programs.
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Carver Elementary Early Childhood Family Center
Eastern Carver County Schools
As part of the Eastern Carver County School District, this highly-rated early childhood center serves families in the Norwood area with exceptional preschool and pre-kindergarten programs. The center employs licensed early childhood educators and follows research-based curriculum standards aligned with district elementary programs. Their approach balances academic readiness with social-emotional learning through structured play, literacy-rich environments, and hands-on activities. The facility includes purpose-built classrooms, developmentally appropriate learning materials, and secure access systems. Parents consistently rate the program highly for its qualified teachers, comprehensive curriculum, and smooth transition to kindergarten. The center offers part-time and full-time options with family education components and community resources.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Norwood, MN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Norwood, MN?
In Norwood and the surrounding Carver County area, full-time daycare costs can vary based on the type of provider. Licensed family childcare homes typically range from $175 to $250 per week for infants and toddlers. Larger daycare centers in nearby towns like Waconia or Chaska may charge between $225 and $350 per week. It's important to note that Minnesota offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families, and some local providers participate. Costs often include meals and basic supplies, but always confirm what's included. Due to Norwood's smaller size, options are limited, so some families may need to budget for commuting to neighboring communities for care.
How can I find licensed and reputable childcare providers in or near Norwood, MN?
The best starting point is Minnesota’s Department of Human Services (DHS) Licensing Division website, where you can search for licensed family childcare homes and centers in Norwood (ZIP code 55368) and nearby Carver County communities. You can view their licensing status, capacity, and any past violations. For local recommendations, consider contacting the Carver County Public Health Department or connecting with the Norwood Young America School District's community education office, as they often have connections to preschool and early childhood programs. Additionally, local Facebook groups like "Norwood Young America Community" are frequently used by parents to share experiences and provider referrals.
Are waitlists common for daycare spots in Norwood, and how far in advance should I apply?
Yes, waitlists are very common due to the limited number of providers in Norwood itself. For in-home family daycare, spots can fill up quickly, especially for infants. It is strongly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists at least 6 to 9 months before you need care, and if you are expecting, to start inquiring during your second trimester. Many providers serving the area have consistent enrollment, so planning ahead is crucial. If you are flexible and can consider providers in adjacent towns like Hamburg, Cologne, or Waconia, you may find shorter wait times, but early planning is still the best strategy.
What are the key Minnesota state licensing requirements I should look for in a Norwood daycare provider?
All legal childcare providers in Minnesota must be licensed by the DHS unless they care only for relatives. Key requirements include: passing background checks for all adults in the home or center, meeting specific health and safety standards (like safe sleep practices for infants), completing ongoing training in topics like SIDS prevention and shaken baby syndrome, and adhering to staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants). Licensed providers are also subject to unannounced inspections. In Norwood, you can verify a provider's license status online and review their compliance history. Choosing a licensed provider ensures a baseline of safety and oversight regulated by the state.
What alternative or part-time childcare options exist for families in Norwood outside of traditional full-time daycare?
Given Norwood's smaller community, alternatives include: 1. **Preschool Programs:** The Norwood Young America School District offers early childhood family education (ECFE) and preschool programs that provide part-time care and education, typically for children ages 3-5. 2. **In-Home Family Daycare:** Many providers offer flexible part-time or drop-in schedules, which can be more accommodating than centers. 3. **Nanny Shares:** Some families in the area coordinate to share a nanny, which can be a cost-effective and personalized option. 4. **Seasonal/Day Camps:** For school-age children, the local community education and parks programs offer summer and school-break camps. 5. **Care from a Licensed Relative:** Minnesota has a "Licensed Relative" category, allowing grandparents or other relatives to become licensed providers and receive CCAP subsidies if eligible. Exploring these options often requires networking within local parent groups or community boards.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Norwood: