The Best Daycare Centers in Wanda, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Wanda. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Wanda
Little Learners Child Care Center
Independent
Little Learners Child Care Center serves the Wanda area from nearby Olivia with a comprehensive educational program focused on developmental milestones. The center employs state-licensed teachers with Early Childhood Education credentials and maintains low student-to-teacher ratios. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum with hands-on learning activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and nutritious meal programs. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, experienced staff, and nurturing environment that prepares children for kindergarten readiness.
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New Horizons Child Care & Learning Center
New Horizons Child Care
New Horizons Child Care & Learning Center provides high-quality early childhood education to families in the Wanda region from their Olivia location. The center offers a structured educational program that balances academic preparation with play-based learning. Staff members hold Child Development Associate credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. The facility includes secure classrooms, outdoor play areas, and developmentally appropriate learning materials. The center is noted for its strong parent partnerships, regular progress updates, and focus on creating a safe, inclusive environment that supports each child's individual growth and development.
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Kindercare Learning Center - Redwood Falls
Kindercare Education
As part of the national Kindercare network, this Redwood Falls location serves the broader region including Wanda with a research-based curriculum developed by early childhood experts. The center features dedicated learning centers, technology-enhanced classrooms, and comprehensive safety protocols including secured entrances and emergency preparedness systems. Their educational approach focuses on literacy, math, science, and social skills development through both structured activities and child-directed play. The center employs qualified teachers with background checks and ongoing training, offering consistent programming with flexible scheduling options that accommodate working families in rural communities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Wanda, MN
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available for families in Wanda, MN?
In Wanda and the surrounding Redwood County area, parents typically have access to three main types of licensed childcare. First, licensed family childcare homes, which are often run by a provider in their residence and can care for up to 10 children, are a common option in smaller communities. Second, licensed childcare centers, though less common directly in Wanda, may be found in nearby larger towns like Redwood Falls. Third, certified in-home providers can care for one family's children plus one other unrelated family. Due to Wanda's rural nature, family childcare homes are often the most prevalent and accessible local option. All providers must be licensed through the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS), which ensures they meet state standards for safety, staff-to-child ratios, and programming.
How can I find and verify the license of a childcare provider in Wanda, MN?
The State of Minnesota provides a free, public online resource called "Minnesota’s Parent Aware" and the DHS Licensing Information Lookup. For any provider you consider in Wanda, you can search by their name or business name on the DHS website to view their current license status, any licensing actions, and the age groups they are approved to serve. It's crucial to verify this, as it confirms the provider meets health, safety, and training requirements. You can also contact the Redwood County Human Services office for local referrals. Always ask the provider directly to see their license and their most recent compliance review report during your visit.
What is the average cost of daycare in Wanda, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In Wanda and rural Minnesota, costs can vary. For a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $150 to $250 per week for full-time infant or toddler care, which is often lower than urban centers. Preschool-age care may be slightly less. Financial assistance is available for eligible families through the Minnesota Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), administered by Redwood County. Your eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (work, school, etc.). It's important to apply through the county and ensure your chosen provider is registered to accept CCAP subsidies. Some local providers may also offer private sliding scale fees.
Are there long waitlists for childcare in Wanda, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small community like Wanda, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care slots which have stricter staff-to-child ratios. It is highly recommended to begin your search at least 3-6 months before you need care, and if you are expecting a child, to get on lists during your second trimester. Don't hesitate to contact providers in neighboring towns like Lamberton, Sanborn, or Redwood Falls to expand your options. When you call, ask directly about their current capacity, waitlist process, and estimated timeline.
What local resources or programs support early childhood development and preschool readiness in Wanda?
While Wanda itself is small, it is part of the Redwood Area School District and the Southwest/West Central Service Cooperative, which provide resources. Many local family childcare providers participate in the state's voluntary Parent Aware Star Rating system, which evaluates and supports early learning quality. Additionally, the district may offer Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) classes or screenings in nearby towns. For children ages 3-5, Head Start programs in the region, often based in Redwood Falls, provide comprehensive preschool services for income-eligible families, with transportation sometimes available. Checking with the Wanda Community Center or city office can also point you to local playgroups or library reading times that support development.