The Best Daycare Centers in Sherburn, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Sherburn. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Sherburn
Sherburn Daycare Center
Independent
Sherburn Daycare Center is a locally-owned facility that has served the community for over 15 years. They provide comprehensive early childhood education with a play-based learning approach that emphasizes social-emotional development and school readiness. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, experienced staff with early childhood certifications, and a secure facility with monitored access. Their curriculum includes daily structured activities, outdoor play in their fenced playground, and age-appropriate learning centers. The center is known for its family-like atmosphere and strong community connections, offering flexible scheduling to accommodate working families in the Sherburn area.
Daycare Services:
New Horizons Daycare
Independent
Located in nearby Fairmont (approximately 15 minutes from Sherburn), New Horizons Daycare offers a high-quality educational program with a focus on developmental milestones and kindergarten readiness. Their curriculum blends structured academic preparation with creative play, featuring STEM activities, literacy development, and social skills building. The center employs qualified early childhood educators who maintain ongoing professional development. Facilities include modern classrooms, secure entry systems, and age-appropriate outdoor learning environments. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, nutritious meal program, and the individualized attention children receive. They serve many families from the Sherburn area with convenient hours and reliable care.
Daycare Services:
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center in Welcome (approximately 10 minutes from Sherburn) provides a nurturing educational environment with a comprehensive early learning curriculum. Their approach emphasizes hands-on learning through centers, project-based activities, and outdoor exploration. The center features certified teachers, small class sizes, and a security system ensuring child safety. Their program includes music and movement, early literacy development, and character education. The facility offers bright, well-equipped classrooms and a large outdoor play area with natural elements. Parents appreciate the center's transparent communication, experienced staff, and commitment to each child's individual development, making it a popular choice for Sherburn-area families seeking quality childcare.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Sherburn, MN
What types of licensed childcare options are available in Sherburn, MN, and how do I verify their licensing status?
In Sherburn, parents typically have access to licensed family childcare homes and possibly smaller childcare centers. Due to the city's size, there are no large corporate daycare chains. Family childcare homes are common, where a provider cares for children in their own residence, often offering a more home-like environment with mixed-age groups. To verify a provider's licensing status, you must check with the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS). You can use the DHS online "Child Care Lookup" tool or contact your local county licensing office (Martin County). Always confirm the license is current and check for any history of serious licensing violations. This step is crucial for ensuring your child's safety and the program's compliance with state standards for staff-to-child ratios, safety inspections, and provider training.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in Sherburn, and when should I start looking for care?
Given Sherburn's smaller population, the number of licensed childcare slots is limited, which can lead to significant waitlists, especially for infants and toddlers. It is not uncommon for popular providers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. We strongly recommend that expecting parents or families planning a move begin their search as early as possible—ideally during the second trimester of pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before you need care. Contact providers directly to inquire about their current waitlist procedures, any fees to join the list, and how often they update families on their status. Being proactive and getting on multiple lists increases your chances of securing a spot.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Sherburn, and are there any local or state financial assistance programs?
The cost of childcare in Sherburn is generally lower than in larger Minnesota metros but varies by provider type and the child's age. For full-time care, you can expect to pay approximately $150-$225 per week for a preschooler and $175-$275 per week for an infant in a licensed family childcare home. Financial assistance is available through the Minnesota Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), administered by Martin County. Eligibility is based on family income, size, and need (such as employment or education). We recommend contacting the Martin County Human Services office to apply. Additionally, you may qualify for federal tax credits like the Child and Dependent Care Credit.
Are there any childcare programs in Sherburn that offer part-time, drop-in, or after-school care for school-age children?
Options for non-standard care schedules in Sherburn are limited but do exist. Some licensed family childcare providers may offer part-time slots or drop-in care based on availability, but this is not guaranteed and often requires pre-arrangement. For school-age children (K-5), the Sherburn area is served by the Martin County West School District. The district may offer a School-Age Care (SAC) program, often housed at the elementary school, providing before and after-school care, as well as full-day care on non-school days. You should contact the Martin County West Schools district office directly for the most current information on availability, registration, and costs for their SAC program.
What are the key questions I should ask a potential childcare provider in Sherburn during a tour or interview?
Beyond general questions, tailor your inquiries to the local context. Essential questions include: 1) "Are you licensed by the State of Minnesota, and may I see your current license?" 2) "What is your policy for severe weather days or emergency closures, given our rural location?" 3) "How do you handle transportation or outings, if any, within the community?" 4) "Can you describe your experience and training, specifically in areas like pediatric first aid/CPR and Minnesota's required ongoing education?" 5) "What is your philosophy on outdoor play and utilizing local spaces like Sherburn City Park?" 6) "How do you communicate with parents daily and handle developmental updates?" Asking these specific questions will help you assess the provider's professionalism, preparedness, and fit for your family in the Sherburn community.