The Best Preschools in Garfield, MN
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Garfield. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Alexandria Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE)
Alexandria Public Schools (ISD 206)
Alexandria ECFE offers high-quality early childhood education with a strong emphasis on family involvement and community support. The program features certified teachers, developmentally appropriate curricula, and a play-based learning environment that promotes social, emotional, and cognitive development. It serves families in Garfield and surrounding areas with a focus on preparing children for kindergarten through structured activities and parent education workshops.
Programs Offered:
Kindercare Learning Center - Alexandria
Kindercare Education LLC
This nationally accredited center provides a comprehensive early learning curriculum focused on literacy, math, and social skills, with experienced staff and a safe, nurturing environment. It offers flexible scheduling and serves children from infancy through school age, making it a reliable option for Garfield families seeking quality childcare and education with a proven track record of parent satisfaction.
Programs Offered:
Discovery Club Preschool at Alexandria YMCA
Alexandria YMCA
Operated by the Alexandria YMCA, Discovery Club Preschool emphasizes whole-child development through play-based learning, physical activity, and social-emotional growth. The program features qualified educators, a structured curriculum aligned with state standards, and a focus on building foundational skills for kindergarten. It serves the Garfield area with a commitment to safety, community engagement, and inclusive education.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Garfield, MN:
What are the typical costs for preschool in Garfield, MN, and are there any local assistance programs?
In Garfield and the surrounding Douglas County area, preschool costs can range from approximately $150 to $250 per week, depending on the program's schedule and structure. For financial assistance, families should inquire directly with providers about sliding scale options and also apply for Minnesota's Early Learning Scholarships through the Parent Aware website, which many local programs accept to help reduce costs.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Garfield?
All licensed childcare and preschool programs in Minnesota are regulated by the Department of Human Services (DHS). You can search for a provider's licensing status and any history of violations on the DHS Licensing Information Lookup website. Additionally, look for programs with a Parent Aware Star Rating, Minnesota's quality rating system, which indicates they use best practices in early learning.
What types of preschool programs are available in or near Garfield, MN?
Options in the Garfield community typically include home-based family childcare preschool programs, faith-based preschools often associated with local churches, and part-day preschool sessions. For more structured center-based options, many families also consider programs in nearby Alexandria, which is a short commute and offers public school district early childhood offerings and private centers.
When should I start looking and applying for preschools in this area, as enrollment periods can be limited?
Due to the smaller number of local options, it is highly recommended to begin your search and outreach at least 6-12 months before your desired start date, especially if aiming for a fall enrollment. Many programs, including the Alexandria Public Schools' early childhood offerings that serve the region, have enrollment periods in the winter or early spring for the following school year.
Are there preschools in Garfield that offer flexible schedules for working parents?
While many local part-day preschool programs have fixed schedules, the home-based family childcare providers in Garfield often offer more flexible, full-day hours to accommodate working parents. When contacting providers, be sure to explicitly ask about their operating hours, before/after care options, and whether they can accommodate non-traditional work schedules.
Nearby Cities
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