The Best Daycare Centers in Taylors Falls, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Taylors Falls. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Taylors Falls
Creative Kids Learning Center
Independent
Creative Kids Learning Center provides comprehensive early childhood education with a play-based curriculum that emphasizes social-emotional development and school readiness. Their qualified teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and maintain low teacher-to-child ratios. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor learning environments. They offer nutritious meals and snacks, regular parent communication through digital platforms, and a STEM-focused curriculum that includes music, art, and physical education. Their strong community reputation stems from consistent quality care and developmental milestone tracking.
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New Horizons Childcare & Learning Center
Independent
New Horizons offers a structured educational program focusing on whole-child development through Creative Curriculum and hands-on learning experiences. Their state-licensed teachers provide individualized attention with small class sizes and developmentally appropriate activities. The center features secure facilities with surveillance systems, modern classrooms, and expansive outdoor play areas. They emphasize literacy development, social skills, and kindergarten readiness through structured lesson plans and enrichment activities. Parent satisfaction is high due to their transparent communication, experienced staff, and commitment to creating a nurturing, educational environment.
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Kiddie Academy of Chisago Lakes
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Chisago Lakes implements the nationally recognized Life Essentials® curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. Their degreed educators focus on STEAM learning, literacy development, and social-emotional skills through structured daily routines. The facility includes secure entry systems, modern learning centers, technology-integrated classrooms, and safe outdoor playgrounds. They provide healthy meals and snacks, regular developmental assessments, and comprehensive parent communication through mobile apps. As part of a respected national network, they maintain high standards for safety, curriculum quality, and staff professional development while serving the broader Chisago Lakes area including Taylors Falls families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Taylors Falls, MN
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Taylors Falls, MN, and how do they differ?
In Taylors Falls and the surrounding Chisago County area, parents typically have three main licensed options. First, licensed family childcare homes, which are run out of a provider's residence and often have a smaller, home-like setting for up to 10 children. These are common in residential areas of Taylors Falls. Second, licensed childcare centers, though there are very few directly within the city limits; parents often look to nearby communities like Lindstrom or Chisago City for center-based care. Third, certified in-home providers, who care for children from a single unrelated family. The key differences are group size, setting, and often cost—family childcare is frequently the most accessible and affordable local option. All are regulated by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) and must meet state health, safety, and training standards.
How far in advance should I get on a waitlist for childcare in Taylors Falls, and what is the typical cost?
Due to limited providers in Taylors Falls itself, planning ahead is crucial. For infant care, which has the strictest staff-to-child ratios, it's recommended to get on waitlists during pregnancy, ideally 6-12 months before you need care. For toddler or preschool spots, 3-6 months lead time is common. Costs vary by provider type. As of 2024, in the Taylors Falls/Chisago County area, full-time weekly rates average approximately $225-$275 for family childcare and $300-$375+ for center-based care in neighboring towns. Infant care is typically at the higher end of these ranges. We recommend contacting providers directly for current rates and inquiring about potential assistance through the Minnesota Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) if eligible.
Are there any unique outdoor or nature-based childcare programs near Taylors Falls that take advantage of the local environment?
Yes, the natural landscape of the St. Croix River Valley is a significant draw for certain programs. While there may not be a formally licensed "forest school" directly in Taylors Falls, several family childcare providers and centers in the region emphasize outdoor play and exploration. Given the proximity to Interstate State Park, the St. Croix River, and numerous trails, many local providers incorporate daily outdoor time, nature walks, and seasonal activities like maple sugaring or river studies into their curriculum. When touring providers, ask specifically about their outdoor philosophy, daily schedule for outside play (in all weather, following Minnesota's "weather permitting" guidelines), and if they utilize local parks. This is a common strength of childcare in this area.
What should I look for when verifying the license and quality of a childcare provider in Minnesota, specifically for Taylors Falls?
Every licensed provider in Minnesota, including those in Taylors Falls, must have their license and the most recent DHS licensing review report (which includes any correction orders) posted in a visible location. You should review this. Crucially, you can also use the state's online "Look Up a License" tool on the MN DHS website to check the provider's current status, capacity, and any serious licensing violations. For quality beyond basic compliance, ask about the provider's participation in Minnesota's Parent Aware Quality Rating System (a voluntary 1-4 star rating). Also, check with the Chisago County Public Health and Human Services departments for any local resources or referrals. Don't hesitate to ask for references from other local families.
Given Taylors Falls' smaller size, what are my options if I cannot find an opening with a local provider?
This is a common challenge. Your primary options are to expand your search geographically or consider alternative arrangements. First, look at licensed providers in adjacent communities like Lindstrom, Chisago City, Shafer, or even across the river in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin (note: MN CCAP funds can sometimes be used with WI-licensed providers, but check specifics). Second, explore forming a nanny share with another local family, which can be a cost-effective solution for a small community. Third, check if your employer offers any Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) or resources. Finally, utilize the free referral service through Child Care Aware of Minnesota, which can help you search a wider radius based on your specific needs, including commute to work in nearby cities like Forest Lake or the Twin Cities metro.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Taylors Falls: