The Best Daycare Centers in Pease, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Pease. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Pease
Princeton Early Childhood Center
Princeton School District
Princeton Early Childhood Center is a highly-regarded facility operated by Princeton School District, serving the broader Princeton area including Pease. They offer comprehensive early childhood education with a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation. The center features state-licensed teachers with early childhood degrees, low student-teacher ratios, and a curriculum focused on social-emotional development, literacy, and kindergarten readiness. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, secure entry systems, and dedicated outdoor play areas. Parents consistently praise the qualified staff, engaging learning environment, and strong communication about child development progress.
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Little Blessings Childcare & Preschool
Independent
Little Blessings Childcare & Preschool serves families throughout Mille Lacs County, including the Pease community. This faith-based center combines Christian values with a comprehensive early education curriculum featuring Creative Curriculum components. The facility maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios with lead teachers holding early childhood credentials. Safety features include secured access, comprehensive background checks, and modern security systems. The program emphasizes whole-child development through hands-on learning centers, music and movement activities, and structured outdoor play. Parents particularly appreciate the nurturing environment, consistent staff retention, and individualized attention given to each child's developmental needs.
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New Horizon Academy
New Horizon Academy
New Horizon Academy in Cambridge is part of a respected regional chain with a strong presence in Minnesota, serving families from Pease and surrounding communities. They implement a research-based curriculum focused on literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills development. The center features highly qualified teaching staff with ongoing professional development and maintains NAEYC accreditation standards. Facilities include secure, age-appropriate learning environments, modern playground equipment, and comprehensive safety protocols. The program emphasizes parent partnership through regular progress updates and family engagement events. Multiple parents highlight the consistent quality of care, educational programming excellence, and the center's commitment to creating a stimulating learning environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Pease, MN
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available to families in Pease, MN?
In Pease, MN, and the surrounding Mille Lacs County area, parents typically have access to three main types of licensed childcare. These include licensed family childcare homes, which are operated in a provider's residence and often offer a smaller, home-like setting. There are also licensed childcare centers, which are larger facilities with multiple staff and classrooms; the nearest centers may be in nearby cities like Princeton. Additionally, some in-home providers operate as legally unlicensed (but legal) Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) care, which is exempt from licensing if they care for children from a single related family. For licensed options, all providers are regulated by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS), which sets standards for health, safety, staff training, and ratios. Due to Pease's smaller size, exploring providers in neighboring communities is often necessary.
How much does full-time childcare typically cost in Pease, and are there financial assistance programs?
Childcare costs in the Pease area are generally lower than in the Twin Cities metro but can vary. For a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $150 to $225 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. Rates for preschool-aged children are often slightly less. Childcare center rates, if utilizing one in a nearby town, can be higher, potentially ranging from $200 to $300 per week. Financial assistance is available for qualifying families through Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), administered by Mille Lacs County. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or education). It's crucial to apply through the county and ensure your chosen provider is registered to accept CCAP subsidies.
Are there long waitlists for daycare in Pease, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Given that Pease is a small community with limited providers, waitlists for the most sought-after licensed family childcare homes can be common, especially for infant care. It is highly recommended that parents begin their search during pregnancy, ideally 6 to 9 months before their needed start date. For care needed in the summer or fall, starting inquiries in the winter or early spring is wise. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current waitlist status, estimated timeline, and any deposit requirements to hold a spot. Being flexible with your start date and considering providers in adjacent communities like Milaca, Foreston, or Princeton can significantly increase your options and reduce wait times.
What should I look for when visiting and evaluating a daycare provider in the Pease area?
When visiting a potential childcare provider in Pease, start by verifying their current Minnesota DHS license is posted and check for any past licensing violations online. Observe the environment: Is it clean, safe, and child-proofed? Are there ample age-appropriate toys and books? Notice how the provider interacts with the children—are they engaged and responsive? Ask about their daily schedule, philosophy on discipline and learning, sick policies, and emergency procedures. Inquire about their experience, training (including CPR/First Aid), and whether they have backup help. Given the rural setting, ask about outdoor play areas and policies for weather-related closures. Trusting your instincts about the caregiver's warmth and professionalism is key.
What resources are available locally to help me find and choose a childcare provider in Mille Lacs County?
The primary local resource is the Child Care Aware of Minnesota referral service. You can contact them online or by phone for a personalized list of licensed providers in Pease and Mille Lacs County based on your specific needs (age of child, hours, location). Another vital resource is the Minnesota DHS Licensing Information Lookup website, where you can verify a provider's license status and review any past correction orders. Connecting with other parents through local community groups, Facebook pages (e.g., "Pease, MN Community"), or at the Pease City Hall can yield personal recommendations. For assistance with applications and subsidies, contact the Mille Lacs County Health and Human Services department directly.