The Best Daycare Centers in Stillwater, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Stillwater. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Stillwater
New Horizons Academy
New Horizons Academy
New Horizons Academy stands out with its comprehensive educational approach featuring the Creative Curriculum system combined with STEM-focused learning activities. The center employs highly qualified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development requirements. Facilities include secure, age-appropriate classrooms with observation windows, dedicated outdoor playgrounds with safety surfaces, and modern security systems including coded entry. The program emphasizes social-emotional development through structured play and offers nutritious meal programs prepared on-site. Parent communication includes daily digital reports and regular developmental assessments.
Daycare Services:
Primrose School of Stillwater
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Stillwater operates under the nationally recognized Balanced Learning® curriculum that blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained early childhood professionals. The facility features bright, well-equipped classrooms, secure outdoor learning environments, and comprehensive safety protocols including strict visitor policies. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and maintain low student-teacher ratios. The program emphasizes character development and literacy skills through their exclusive Harmony & Heart® curriculum components. Parents receive regular updates through the Primrose Schools mobile app and participate in family engagement events.
Daycare Services:
New Discoveries Montessori Academy
New Discoveries Montessori
New Discoveries Montessori Academy offers authentic Montessori education guided by AMI-trained teachers in carefully prepared environments designed to foster independence and natural curiosity. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning with Montessori materials across practical life, sensorial, language, mathematics, and cultural studies. The facility includes child-sized furniture, beautiful outdoor gardens, and peaceful learning spaces that encourage concentration and respect. Safety features include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. The school maintains strong parent partnerships through observation opportunities, parent education nights, and detailed progress reports tracking developmental milestones.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Stillwater, MN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Stillwater, MN, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Stillwater, MN, full-time daycare costs vary significantly based on the child's age and the type of facility. For an infant, you can expect to pay between $1,400 and $1,800 per month at a licensed center, while toddler care typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,500 per month. In-home family childcare is often more affordable, generally ranging from $800 to $1,200 monthly. These rates are influenced by the provider's experience, program offerings, and facility amenities. For financial assistance, Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is a primary resource for eligible families based on income. Additionally, local organizations like the Family Means in Stillwater may offer resources or referrals. It's also worth checking with individual centers about possible sliding scale fees or sibling discounts.
How long are daycare waitlists in Stillwater, and what can I do to secure a spot for my infant?
Waitlists for infant care in Stillwater can be quite long, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for highly-regarded centers. This is due to Minnesota's strict staff-to-child ratios for infants (1:4) limiting capacity. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy, ideally in the second trimester. Contact multiple providers—including licensed centers, family childcare homes, and newer facilities—to get on multiple lists. Be proactive: follow up every few months to confirm your spot remains active. Consider flexible options like a nanny share with other Stillwater families or a licensed family childcare provider, which may have shorter wait times. Utilizing the "Find Child Care" tool on the Minnesota Department of Human Services website can help identify all licensed options in the 55082 area.
What are the key differences between a licensed childcare center and a licensed family childcare home in Stillwater?
In Stillwater, both options are licensed by the State of Minnesota but offer different environments. Licensed childcare centers are typically larger facilities with multiple staff, structured classrooms, and often offer preschool curricula. They may have more resources and amenities but can feel more institutional. Licensed family childcare homes operate out of the provider's residence, offering a smaller, home-like setting with mixed-age groups, which can be beneficial for siblings. They often provide more flexible hours but may have limited backup if the provider is ill. Both must meet state standards for safety, staff training, and ratios, but centers are subject to more frequent unannounced inspections. Your choice may depend on your child's temperament, your need for schedule flexibility, and the specific philosophy of the provider.
Are there any unique outdoor or nature-based childcare programs available in the Stillwater area?
Yes, Stillwater's proximity to the St. Croix River Valley and numerous parks supports a growing interest in nature-based childcare. Several local providers incorporate significant outdoor play and learning into their daily routines, regardless of weather, following the "there's no bad weather, only bad clothing" philosophy. While dedicated forest schools are less common, some family childcare homes and centers, particularly those with a Montessori or Reggio Emilia influence, emphasize outdoor exploration. You can inquire about daily outdoor time, garden programs, and field trips to local spots like Lily Lake or the St. Croix Boom Site. The Minnesota Department of Human Services licensing allows for such programs, provided safety plans are in place. Networking with local parent groups on social media can help identify these specific providers.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare facility in Stillwater?
When touring a daycare in Stillwater, go beyond the basics. First, verify the license is current and posted, and ask about staff tenure and turnover—low turnover indicates a positive work environment. Observe interactions: are caregivers engaged at the children's level, and is the atmosphere calm and happy? Check for cleanliness and safety, including secured entrances, covered electrical outlets, and safe sleep practices for infants. Inquire about their sick policy and how they handle common childhood illnesses. Ask about their curriculum and daily communication with parents (many use apps like Brightwheel or Tadpoles). Given Stillwater's seasons, see if they have appropriate outdoor gear and a plan for active outdoor play year-round. Finally, trust your gut feeling about the environment and how the staff answers your questions.