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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.

3 Quality Preschools
4.8 Average Rating

Cottage Grove KinderCare

KinderCare Learning Companies

4.7/ 5.0
15 years experience

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.

Programs Offered:

Infant CareToddler CarePreschoolPre-KindergartenBefore & After School Care
7445 80th St S, Cottage Grove, MN 55016

New Horizon Academy - Woodbury

New Horizon Academy

4.8/ 5.0
12 years experience

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.

Programs Offered:

Infant CareToddler ProgramsPreschoolPre-KSchool-Age CareSummer Programs
8320 City Centre Dr, Woodbury, MN 55125

Primrose School of Woodbury

Primrose Schools

4.9/ 5.0
10 years experience

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.

Programs Offered:

Early PreschoolPreschoolPre-KindergartenKindergartenAfter School Programs
10550 City Walk Dr, Woodbury, MN 55129

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.

Finding a Nurturing Start: Exploring Christian Preschools in Cottage Grove

For parents in Cottage Grove, the search for the right preschool is a journey filled with hope and careful consideration. You're not just looking for a place where your child will learn their ABCs and 123s; you're seeking a foundation that aligns with your family's deepest values. When the search includes "christian preschools near me," it often reflects a desire for an early education environment that nurtures the whole child—heart, mind, and spirit—within a framework of faith. Here in our community, you'll find several wonderful options that blend academic readiness with Christian principles, creating a warm and purposeful start to your child's educational journey.

A Christian preschool in Cottage Grove typically offers all the key components of a high-quality early childhood program. This includes structured play that develops social skills, hands-on activities that foster cognitive growth, and a curriculum designed to prepare children for kindergarten. The distinguishing layer is the intentional integration of faith-based values into daily routines. This might look like starting the day with a simple prayer or song, hearing age-appropriate Bible stories that teach lessons about kindness and sharing, and celebrating holidays with an emphasis on their spiritual significance. The goal is to create an atmosphere where love, respect, and compassion are explicitly taught and modeled.

As you begin your search, we recommend taking a proactive and personal approach. First, make a list of the Christian preschools in and around Cottage Grove. Many are affiliated with local churches and have been serving families in our area for generations. Once you have a few names, the most important step is to visit. Schedule a tour during school hours so you can observe the classroom in action. Notice the interactions between teachers and children. Is the environment joyful and orderly? Do the children seem engaged and comfortable? This firsthand observation is invaluable.

During your visit, come prepared with questions that go beyond logistics. Ask about the curriculum's approach to spiritual development and how those lessons are woven into the day. Inquire about the teachers' backgrounds, both in early childhood education and in their faith. It’s also wise to ask about the school's philosophy on discipline and community involvement. Finally, talk to other parents. Our tight-knit Cottage Grove community is a great resource; ask for recommendations at your local church, community center, or even the neighborhood park. Personal testimonials from families who have walked this path can provide genuine insight.

Choosing a preschool is a significant decision. For families seeking a Christian preschool in Cottage Grove, MN, the journey is about finding a partner in those formative early years—a place that reinforces the lessons of faith, character, and love you are teaching at home. By visiting classrooms, asking thoughtful questions, and trusting your instincts about the environment, you can find a nurturing preschool home where your child will flourish, build a strong academic foundation, and grow in their understanding of the world through a lens of grace and kindness.

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