The Best Preschools in Cottage Grove, MN
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Cottage Grove. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Cottage Grove KinderCare
KinderCare Learning Companies
Cottage Grove KinderCare is a nationally accredited early learning center offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. With over 15 years serving the Cottage Grove community, they provide age-appropriate curriculum focusing on literacy, math, science, and social skills development. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials, secure entry systems, and structured learning environments. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, engaging curriculum, and safe, nurturing atmosphere that prepares children for kindergarten success.
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New Horizon Academy - Woodbury
New Horizon Academy
Located just minutes from Cottage Grove in neighboring Woodbury, New Horizon Academy has served families in the eastern metro area for over a decade. This NAEYC-accredited center offers research-based curriculum with emphasis on STEM education, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. The facility features secure access, modern classrooms, and outdoor learning environments. Highly rated for teacher qualifications, safety protocols, and comprehensive educational programming, this center is a popular choice for Cottage Grove families seeking high-quality early education.
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Primrose School of Woodbury
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Woodbury, located just north of Cottage Grove, offers a premier early education experience with their Balanced Learning approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance. The school features state-of-the-art security systems, highly qualified early childhood educators, and a comprehensive curriculum that includes character development, literacy, and STEAM activities. Parents consistently rate this facility highly for its educational quality, safe environment, and exceptional teacher-child interactions. The school maintains small class sizes and strong parent communication, making it a top choice for families throughout the Cottage Grove area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Cottage Grove, MN:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Cottage Grove, MN, and are there financial assistance options?
In Cottage Grove, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $250 to $450, depending on the program's schedule (part-time vs. full-day) and whether it's a public, private, or faith-based center. Financial assistance is available through the South Washington County Schools (District 833) Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) sliding fee scale, and many local centers accept the state's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families.
How do I find licensed and highly-rated preschools in Cottage Grove?
Start by using the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) online licensing lookup to verify a program's compliance and review any past violations. For quality ratings, check the Parent Aware Star Ratings, a statewide system; several Cottage Grove programs, including those within District 833 and private centers like New Horizon Academy, have earned 4-Star ratings. Local parent groups on social media are also valuable for firsthand recommendations.
What are the main types of preschool programs available in Cottage Grove?
Cottage Grove offers a mix of public, private, and faith-based options. Public options include part-day preschool through South Washington County Schools' Early Childhood programs, often housed at Crestview Elementary. Private childcare centers provide full-day, year-round care, and several local churches offer part-day preschool programs with varying educational philosophies, such as Montessori or play-based learning.
When should I apply, and what is the enrollment process for Cottage Grove preschools?
For public school district preschool (ECFE/School Readiness), registration typically opens in early spring for the following fall, with priority given to in-district families. Private centers often have rolling enrollment but can have waitlists, so it's advisable to inquire 6-12 months in advance. Most programs require a registration fee, completed health forms, and an up-to-date immunization record per Minnesota state law.
What should I look for regarding safety and curriculum during a preschool tour in Cottage Grove?
During a tour, confirm the program is DHS-licensed, ask about staff-to-child ratios (Minnesota mandates 1:10 for 4-year-olds), and observe secure entry procedures. Inquire about the curriculum's alignment with Minnesota's Early Childhood Indicators of Progress and how play-based learning is incorporated. Also, ask about outdoor time and if they utilize local amenities like the Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park for nature exploration.
Nearby Cities
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