The Best Daycare Centers in Scandia, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Scandia. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Scandia
New Horizons Child Care & Preschool
Independent
New Horizons Child Care & Preschool is a highly-regarded facility located just minutes from Scandia in Forest Lake. They offer a comprehensive educational program with a play-based learning approach that incorporates Creative Curriculum standards. The center features dedicated infant rooms with low teacher-to-child ratios, qualified early childhood educators, and a secure facility with coded entry systems. Their preschool program focuses on kindergarten readiness with literacy, math, and social-emotional development. The center provides nutritious meals and snacks, has large outdoor play areas with age-appropriate equipment, and maintains excellent communication with parents through daily reports and regular conferences.
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Discovery Clubhouse Childcare & Learning Center
Independent
Discovery Clubhouse serves the Scandia area from their Forest Lake location with a strong emphasis on developmental learning and creative exploration. The center employs degreed teachers and maintains small class sizes with optimal staff-to-child ratios. Their curriculum blends Montessori principles with structured academic preparation, featuring hands-on learning centers, STEM activities, and literacy programs. The facility includes secure indoor environments with camera monitoring, modern playgrounds with safety surfaces, and dedicated art/music rooms. They offer flexible scheduling options and provide detailed progress reports to parents. The center is known for its warm, nurturing environment and strong community reputation.
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New Discoveries Childcare & Learning Center
Independent
New Discoveries Childcare has been serving the Scandia and Forest Lake communities for nearly two decades with a reputation for quality early childhood education. Their research-based curriculum focuses on whole-child development through structured learning activities and creative play. The center features state-licensed teachers with ongoing professional development, secure facilities with keypad entry, and comprehensive safety protocols. They offer age-specific programs including infant sign language, toddler socialization activities, and kindergarten readiness programs. The center provides healthy meals through their in-house nutrition program and maintains excellent parent communication through digital portfolios and regular family events. Their experienced staff and consistent quality make them a trusted choice for Scandia families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Scandia, MN
What types of licensed childcare options are available in Scandia, MN, and how do I find them?
In Scandia, licensed childcare options primarily consist of licensed family childcare homes, as the city's rural character means there are no large childcare centers within city limits. These in-home providers are licensed by the State of Minnesota's Department of Human Services (DHS) to care for a small group of children in a residential setting. To find licensed providers, you should use the Minnesota DHS online "Find a Child Care Provider" search tool, filtering by Scandia's zip code (55073). Additionally, contacting the local resource and referral agency, **Child Care Aware of Minnesota**, can provide personalized referrals and information on providers in Scandia and the surrounding Washington County area. Networking through local community groups like the Scandia-Marine Lions Club or the Scandia City Facebook page can also yield recommendations from other parents.
What is the typical cost for full-time childcare in Scandia, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
For licensed family childcare in Scandia and the surrounding rural areas of Washington County, typical costs for full-time infant care range from approximately $225 to $275 per week. For toddlers and preschoolers, costs are slightly lower, often between $200 and $250 per week. These rates can vary based on the provider's experience, hours, and included services like meals. Financial assistance is available through Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which helps eligible low- and middle-income families pay for childcare. Eligibility is based on household size, income, and reason for care (work, school, etc.). Applications are processed through the Washington County Community Services Department. Some local providers may also offer sibling discounts.
How long are waitlists for childcare in Scandia, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Due to the limited number of providers in Scandia's small, rural community, waitlists for quality licensed family childcare can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for infant spots. It is highly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a return to work begin their search during pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before they will need care. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current waitlist policy, estimated timeline, and if they require a deposit to hold a spot. Being flexible with your start date can improve your chances. Exploring providers in neighboring towns like Forest Lake, Lindstrom, or Hugo may offer additional options, though this will involve a longer commute for drop-off and pick-up.
What are the key state licensing requirements and safety standards I should verify with a Scandia childcare provider?
All licensed providers in Minnesota must meet strict standards set by the DHS. Key requirements you can verify include: 1) **Staff-to-Child Ratios and Capacity:** For family childcare, a maximum of 10 children with no more than 3 under 24 months. 2) **Background Checks:** All household members over 13 and any assistants must pass background studies. 3) **Health and Safety Training:** Providers must have CPR, First Aid, and Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID) training. 4) **Home Safety:** The home must pass fire and health inspections, have safe sleep practices for infants, and have emergency plans. 5) **Licensing Status:** You can confirm a provider's current license status, including any past violations, on the Minnesota DHS licensing lookup website. Don't hesitate to ask a provider to see their current license.
Are there part-time, drop-in, or summer-only childcare options available in Scandia for school-aged children?
Traditional licensed family childcare homes in Scandia often prioritize full-time, year-round enrollments, making part-time or drop-in care less common and highly sought-after. For school-aged children, especially during summer and school breaks, your best options may include: 1) **Summer Camps:** The City of Scandia Parks & Recreation department typically offers summer day camp programs for school-aged children, which operate on a weekly registration basis. 2) **In-Home Providers:** Some licensed providers may offer "school-age only" contracts for before/after school care and summer care; you must inquire directly. 3) **Neighboring Communities:** Looking to larger nearby towns like Forest Lake, which has community education and private camp offerings, may provide more flexible part-time and seasonal solutions. Planning and registration for summer programs often begins as early as March.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Scandia: