The Best Preschools in Dakota, MN
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Dakota. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Eagan
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Eagan serves the Dakota County area with a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic readiness, social development, and creative expression. The facility features modern classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor play areas. Their degreed teachers implement play-based learning with structured curriculum elements, and the school maintains strong health and safety protocols including regular sanitation and staff training.
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Primrose School of Eagan
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Eagan provides Balanced Learning® curriculum that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The school serves Dakota County families with a research-based approach that develops literacy, math, science, and social skills. Facilities include age-appropriate playgrounds, technology-enhanced classrooms, and dedicated art and music spaces. The school emphasizes character development and maintains low student-teacher ratios for personalized attention.
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New Horizon Academy - Apple Valley
New Horizon Academy
New Horizon Academy in Apple Valley has been serving Dakota County families for over two decades with a comprehensive early childhood education program. Their curriculum focuses on school readiness through structured learning centers, literacy development, and STEM activities. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate learning environments, and outdoor play spaces. The center maintains high standards for teacher qualifications and ongoing professional development, with many staff holding early childhood degrees.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Dakota, MN:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Dakota, MN, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Dakota County, full-time preschool programs typically range from $800 to $1,200 per month, though part-time and faith-based options may be less. For financial assistance, families should apply for Minnesota's Early Learning Scholarship through Think Small and explore the county's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which uses a sliding fee scale based on income and family size.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Dakota, MN?
All licensed preschools and child care centers in Minnesota are regulated by the Department of Human Services (DHS). You can use the DHS Licensing Lookup tool to check a program's license status, view any past violations, and see if they participate in the state's quality rating system, Parent Aware, which is a key indicator of program quality in Dakota County.
What are the common enrollment timelines and age cut-offs for preschools in Dakota County?
Most preschools in Dakota County follow a school-year schedule (September-May) and begin their enrollment processes in January or February for the following fall. The typical age cut-off is that a child must be 3 or 4 years old by September 1st of the enrollment year, but some programs, especially private centers, may offer more flexible start dates for 3-year-olds.
Are there specific preschool curriculum philosophies or program types popular in Dakota, MN?
Dakota County preschools offer a variety of approaches, including play-based, Montessori, faith-based, and academic-focused models. Many local programs align with Minnesota's Early Childhood Indicators of Progress and emphasize outdoor play and nature exploration, with several centers near parks like Lebanon Hills Regional Park incorporating outdoor learning into their daily routines.
What transportation options are available for preschool families in Dakota, MN?
Most private preschools in Dakota County do not provide transportation; parents are responsible for drop-off and pick-up. However, if your child is enrolled in a preschool program operated by your local public school district (like District 196 or 191), they may offer bus transportation for 4-year-old pre-kindergarten students, particularly if the program is part of a special education or school readiness initiative.
Nearby Cities
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