The Best Daycare Centers in Winona, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Winona. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Winona
Winona Area Public Schools Early Childhood Family Education
Winona Area Public Schools
This highly-regarded public school district program offers comprehensive early childhood education with certified teachers and developmentally appropriate curriculum. The program emphasizes family involvement and provides research-based early learning experiences. Features include licensed early childhood teachers, small class sizes, inclusive environments, and strong parent education components. The facility maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and follows state educational standards while incorporating play-based learning and social-emotional development.
Daycare Services:
New Horizon Academy
New Horizon Academy
As part of Minnesota's largest childcare provider network, this center offers a structured educational curriculum with emphasis on school readiness. Features include secure entry systems, certified early childhood teachers, and age-appropriate learning environments. The program utilizes Creative Curriculum with focus on literacy, math, science, and social skills development. The facility includes modern classrooms, outdoor play areas, and provides nutritious meals. Staff maintain CPR and first aid certifications with ongoing professional development requirements.
Daycare Services:
Winona Early Childhood Center
Independent
This established independent childcare center provides personalized care with a focus on individual child development. The program emphasizes hands-on learning experiences and maintains strong communication with families. Features include experienced lead teachers with early childhood degrees, developmentally appropriate classrooms, and comprehensive safety protocols. The curriculum balances structured learning with creative play, incorporating literacy, mathematics, and social development activities. The center maintains consistent staffing with low turnover and offers flexible scheduling options for working families.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Winona, MN
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Winona, MN?
In Winona, the average cost for full-time infant or toddler daycare typically ranges from $175 to $250 per week. This is generally lower than the state average for Minnesota, reflecting the city's cost of living. Prices can vary based on the type of provider; licensed family childcare homes often fall on the lower end of this range, while center-based programs, especially those affiliated with institutions like Winona State University or with specialized curricula, may be at the higher end. It's important to note that these are base rates, and additional fees for registration, supplies, or meals may apply. Financial assistance is available for qualifying families through Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP).
How long are typical waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Winona, and how can I secure a spot?
Waitlists for popular licensed daycare centers in Winona can be significant, especially for infant care, with waits of 6 to 12 months not uncommon. High-demand centers, such as those with strong reputations or convenient locations near major employers like Fastenal or the Mayo Clinic Health System, often have the longest lists. To secure a spot, parents are advised to begin their search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy. When contacting providers, ask specific questions about their list process: Is there a fee to join? How often should you check in? Are you notified when you near the top? Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare providers in surrounding neighborhoods, as they may have more immediate openings.
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Winona, and how can I verify a provider's license status?
All childcare providers in Winona must be licensed by the State of Minnesota's Department of Human Services (DHS) if they care for unrelated children. Licensing ensures providers meet standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, training (including CPR and First Aid), and background checks. Family childcare homes are licensed for up to 10 children, while centers have larger capacities. You can and should verify a provider's license status, any past violations, and their compliance history for free through the Minnesota DHS Licensing Information Lookup website. Simply searching by the provider's name or location will show their current license status, capacity, and any documented licensing actions. This is a critical step in your vetting process.
Are there any unique childcare resources or referral services specifically for Winona families?
Yes, Winona families have a valuable local resource in **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) of Southeastern Minnesota**. This service, which is part of a statewide network, offers free, personalized assistance. They maintain a comprehensive, up-to-date database of all licensed providers in Winona County, help parents understand their options (centers, family homes, preschools), and provide referrals based on your specific needs like location, hours, and child's age. They can also guide you through applying for financial assistance (CCAP). You can contact them via their website or phone to speak with a referral specialist. Additionally, local organizations like the Winona Area Public Schools (WAPS) Community Education may offer preschool and school-age care programs.
What options are available for nontraditional hour or weekend childcare in Winona?
Finding childcare for evenings, overnight, or weekends in Winona is challenging but not impossible. Most standard daycare centers operate on a weekday, daytime schedule. Your best options are to seek out licensed family childcare providers who may offer more flexible hours to accommodate shift workers common in Winona's healthcare and manufacturing sectors. When searching, use filters on the state's referral website or explicitly ask providers about their capacity for nontraditional hours. Some in-home nanny or babysitting services may also fill this gap. For occasional or emergency care, networking through local parent groups on social media (like Winona Area Moms) can sometimes yield leads for trusted sitters. Planning well ahead is essential for securing reliable care for nontraditional shifts.