The Best Preschools in Buffalo, MN
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Buffalo. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Sunshine Preschool & Childcare
Independent
Sunshine Preschool & Childcare has been serving Buffalo families for over 15 years with a strong focus on developmental early education. The facility features a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates literacy, math readiness, and social-emotional development. With small class sizes and experienced early childhood educators, they maintain excellent safety standards and high parent satisfaction. Their holistic approach includes outdoor learning activities and strong community connections.
Programs Offered:
New Horizons Academy
New Horizons Learning Centers
New Horizons Academy is a well-established early learning center in Buffalo offering comprehensive educational programs for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years. Their research-based curriculum emphasizes school readiness through structured learning activities, STEM exploration, and creative arts. The facility features modern security systems, nutritious meal programs, and highly qualified teaching staff with ongoing professional development. Parents consistently praise their communication and individualized attention to each child's needs.
Programs Offered:
Little Explorers Early Learning Center
Independent
Little Explorers has been a trusted early childhood education provider in Buffalo for nearly two decades, known for their child-centered approach and nurturing environment. Their curriculum balances structured academic preparation with ample opportunities for creative expression and physical development. The center maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios and features dedicated learning centers for literacy, mathematics, science, and dramatic play. Their experienced team focuses on building foundational skills while fostering independence and social competence.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Buffalo, MN:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Buffalo, MN, and are there financial assistance options?
In Buffalo, MN, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $200 to $400, depending on the program's schedule (part-time vs. full-day) and whether it's through a private center, church-affiliated program, or the public school district. Financial assistance is available through the Wright County Child Care Assistance Program for qualifying families, and some local preschools offer their own sliding-scale tuition or scholarships.
How do I find licensed and high-quality preschool programs in Buffalo?
Start by using the Minnesota Department of Human Services' online "Child Care Finder" to search for licensed providers in the 55313 area code. For indicators of quality, look for programs accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) or those with a Parent Aware 4-Star Rating, Minnesota's quality rating system. The Buffalo-Hanover-Montrose (BHM) School District's Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) program is also a highly-regarded public option.
What are the enrollment timelines and age requirements for preschools in Buffalo?
For the Buffalo-Hanover-Montrose School District's preschool programs, registration typically opens in early spring for the following fall, with priority given to district residents. Most preschools in Buffalo require children to be 3 or 4 years old by September 1st, and fully toilet-trained. Private centers may have rolling enrollment, but popular programs fill up quickly, so it's advisable to start inquiries and tours 6-12 months in advance.
What types of preschool curriculum or philosophies are available in Buffalo?
Buffalo offers a range of approaches, including play-based, Montessori, faith-based (commonly Lutheran), and the structured, school-readiness curriculum used by BHM School District's programs. Many local preschools emphasize outdoor play and nature exploration, aligning with Minnesota's seasonal activities. It's important to visit and ask how their daily schedule balances structured learning, free play, and social-emotional development.
How does the local school district support preschool-aged children and their families?
The Buffalo-Hanover-Montrose (BHM) School District provides robust early childhood services through its Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE), which offers preschool classes, parent-child workshops, and family resources. They also run targeted School Readiness preschool programs and can provide early childhood screening and special education services for children ages 3-5 who may need developmental support, all coordinated through the district's early learning center.
Nearby Cities
Explore preschools in cities near Buffalo:
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across Minnesota or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.