The Best Daycare Centers in Warsaw, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Warsaw. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Warsaw
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center is a highly-regarded local childcare facility serving the Warsaw community with a comprehensive early childhood education program. They utilize a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation for preschool-aged children. The center features certified early childhood educators with an average of 8 years of experience, maintaining excellent teacher-to-child ratios that exceed state requirements. Their facility includes secure indoor learning environments, age-appropriate outdoor play areas, and a nutrition program that provides balanced meals and snacks. Parents consistently praise their strong communication, individualized attention to each child's development, and the warm, nurturing environment that makes children feel at home.
Daycare Services:
New Horizons Childcare & Learning Center
Regional Childcare Management
New Horizons Childcare & Learning Center offers a research-based curriculum that focuses on whole-child development through hands-on learning experiences. Their educational program incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning tailored to each age group. The center employs state-licensed teachers with backgrounds in early childhood education and provides ongoing professional development. Safety is prioritized with secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and regular safety drills. The facility features modern classrooms, dedicated nap areas, and expansive outdoor playgrounds with age-appropriate equipment. Families appreciate their flexible scheduling options and the center's commitment to creating inclusive, diverse learning environments.
Daycare Services:
Bright Beginnings Early Learning Center
Independent
Bright Beginnings Early Learning Center provides a balanced approach to early childhood education that combines academic readiness with creative expression and physical development. Their curriculum is designed to prepare children for kindergarten success while fostering curiosity and love for learning. The center features low student-to-teacher ratios, allowing for personalized attention and individualized learning plans. Their qualified teaching staff includes professionals with degrees in early childhood education and specialized training in child development. The facility offers bright, well-equipped classrooms, a dedicated art and music room, and secure outdoor play spaces. Parents consistently report high satisfaction with the center's communication, the visible progress in their children's development, and the caring, professional staff.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Warsaw, MN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Warsaw, MN, and how can I verify a provider's license?
In Warsaw, Minnesota, all childcare providers caring for children from unrelated families must be licensed by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS), unless they are legally exempt (like caring for only children from one other family). Licensed providers must meet strict standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, training (including CPR and first aid), and background checks. To verify the license status of a daycare center or family childcare home in the Warsaw area, you can use the "Look Up a Child Care Provider" tool on the Minnesota DHS website. This resource shows the license type, capacity, any past licensing violations, and the program's current status. It's a crucial first step for any parent in Wabasha County to ensure they are considering a legally compliant and monitored facility.
What is the typical cost range for full-time daycare in Warsaw, MN, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Warsaw and the surrounding Wabasha County area, childcare costs can vary. For a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $150-$225 per week for full-time infant care. Center-based care tends to be higher, potentially ranging from $225-$325 per week. These rates are generally lower than in the Twin Cities metro but are influenced by the provider's experience, program offerings, and meals. For financial assistance, Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps eligible low- and middle-income families pay for childcare. Applications are processed through Wabasha County's social services department. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts, and you can inquire about possible scholarships through community organizations or churches that host daycare programs.
How long are waitlists for daycare centers and in-home providers in the Warsaw area, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the rural nature of Wabasha County, licensed childcare slots in and around Warsaw can be limited, leading to waitlists, especially for infant care. It's not uncommon for popular centers or highly recommended in-home providers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. To secure a spot, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Contact multiple providers to get on their lists, even if their current availability is unknown. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee, which is common. Networking with other local parents through community groups, the Warsaw Town Hall, or churches can also provide leads on smaller, unadvertised home providers or upcoming openings.
What are the options for drop-in or part-time childcare in Warsaw, MN, for parents with irregular schedules?
Finding consistent drop-in or part-time care in a small community like Warsaw can be challenging, as most licensed providers prioritize full-time, set-schedule families to maintain stable income and ratios. Your best options are to: 1) Inquire directly with local family childcare homes to see if they have occasional slots or a flexible policy for children already enrolled part-time. 2) Explore licensed centers in nearby larger towns like Lake City or Wabasha, which may offer more structured part-time programs. 3) Consider forming a nanny-share with another family in the area, which can offer more flexibility. 4) Utilize the "Parent Aware" website to search for providers in the region and filter by those who may accept non-traditional schedules. Planning and communication well in advance are key.
Are there any unique outdoor or nature-based childcare programs available for families in the Warsaw, MN area?
While Warsaw itself is a small, unincorporated community, the surrounding region of southeastern Minnesota offers a rich natural environment that some childcare providers incorporate. You are more likely to find nature-focused programs in nearby towns. Some licensed family childcare homes in rural Wabasha County may have large outdoor play areas, gardens, or regular nature exploration as part of their curriculum. For a more formal nature-based preschool program, you may need to look at centers in Rochester or other larger cities within a commuting distance. When touring providers in the Warsaw area, specifically ask about their daily outdoor time, access to natural spaces, and philosophy on outdoor play—many rural providers take advantage of the local farmland, rivers, and trails for learning activities.