The Best Daycare Centers in Saint Hilaire, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Saint Hilaire. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Saint Hilaire
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center is a highly-regarded childcare facility serving the Saint Hilaire area from nearby Thief River Falls. They implement a comprehensive early childhood education curriculum that balances structured learning with play-based activities. The center features state-certified teachers with specialized training in early childhood development, maintaining excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Their facility includes secure, age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor playgrounds with safety surfaces, and a nutrition program that provides balanced meals. Parents consistently praise their communication, developmental progress tracking, and the caring, professional staff. The center emphasizes social-emotional development alongside academic readiness.
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New Horizon Children's Center
Independent
New Horizon Children's Center has been serving families in the Saint Hilaire and Thief River Falls region for over 15 years. They offer a research-based curriculum that incorporates Montessori principles with traditional early childhood education. The center boasts highly qualified staff with degrees in early childhood education and ongoing professional development. Safety is paramount with secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. Their facility includes dedicated learning centers for different age groups, large outdoor play areas, and a focus on STEM activities. Parents appreciate their transparent communication, inclusive environment, and the strong foundation children receive for kindergarten readiness.
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Trinity Lutheran Preschool & Childcare
Trinity Lutheran Church
Trinity Lutheran Preschool & Childcare provides faith-based early childhood education while serving families from Saint Hilaire and surrounding communities. Their program integrates Christian values with a comprehensive academic curriculum that prepares children for elementary school. The center features experienced, degreed educators who create nurturing learning environments with small class sizes. Their facility includes modern classrooms, secure outdoor play spaces, and a structured daily schedule that balances learning, play, and rest. The program emphasizes character development, social skills, and academic foundation through hands-on activities and individualized attention. Parents consistently note the caring atmosphere, excellent communication, and the center's commitment to each child's holistic development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Saint Hilaire, MN
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Saint Hilaire, MN?
In Saint Hilaire, parents primarily have access to two types of licensed childcare: Family Child Care and Child Care Centers. Family Child Care is provided in a caregiver's home for smaller groups (up to 10 children, with specific age ratios) and is common in residential areas of Saint Hilaire, offering a home-like setting. Licensed Child Care Centers are less common in this small community but may be found in nearby towns. Many Saint Hilaire families also utilize in-home providers or licensed family providers in neighboring communities like Thief River Falls or Crookston. All providers must be licensed through the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS), which ensures they meet state standards for safety, staff training, and program quality.
How can I find and verify the license of a daycare provider in Saint Hilaire?
The most reliable resource is Minnesota's "Parent Aware" website and the DHS Licensing Information Lookup. You can search for licensed providers by city, including Saint Hilaire. This public lookup shows the provider's license status, any licensing violations, and the ages they are licensed to serve. For Saint Hilaire specifically, due to the smaller number of providers, you can also contact the local school district office or the Pennington County Public Health Department for referrals. Always ask any potential provider for their license number and verify it online. Minnesota law requires licensed providers to post their license in a visible location, so you can check during a visit.
What is the typical cost for full-time childcare for an infant or toddler in Saint Hilaire?
Costs in Saint Hilaire tend to be moderately lower than in larger Minnesota cities but can vary. For a licensed Family Child Care 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. Availability is a significant factor; with fewer providers, prices can be firm. It's crucial to ask what the weekly fee includes (meals, snacks, supplies). For financial assistance, Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is available for eligible families in Pennington County, and some providers in the area accept it. Always get a written agreement detailing all costs.
Are there long waitlists for daycare in Saint Hilaire, and when should I start looking?
Yes, due to the limited number of providers in a small community like Saint Hilaire, waitlists are common, especially for infant care. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a move begin their search at least 6 to 9 months before they need care. Contact providers directly to inquire about current openings and waitlist procedures. Some may charge a small fee to hold a spot. Be prepared to consider providers in nearby towns such as Thief River Falls (a 15-20 minute drive) if no immediate openings exist in Saint Hilaire. Networking with other local parents through community groups or the school can also yield leads.
What are the key questions to ask a potential daycare provider during a tour in Saint Hilaire?
Beyond general questions, tailor your inquiries to the rural and small-town context of Saint Hilaire. Key questions include: "What is your backup plan if you are sick or on vacation?" (Critical for single-provider in-home care). "What is your policy and procedure for severe weather, given our Minnesota winters?" "How do you incorporate outdoor play and activities appropriate for our community setting?" "Can you provide references from other local families?" Also, ask about their transportation or pickup/drop-off logistics if your child will attend a preschool program at the local school. Verify their emergency preparedness plan and how they communicate with parents, as reliable internet/cell service can vary in rural areas.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Saint Hilaire: