The Best Preschools in Harris, MN
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Harris. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Harris Area Child Care Center
Independent
Harris Area Child Care Center is a community-based nonprofit preschool and childcare facility serving the Harris area with a strong focus on early childhood development. The center offers a structured preschool program that emphasizes social-emotional learning, early literacy, and kindergarten readiness. With highly qualified teachers and low student-to-teacher ratios, they provide individualized attention in a safe, nurturing environment. The facility features age-appropriate learning centers, outdoor play areas, and follows Minnesota early learning standards. Parents consistently praise the dedicated staff, clean facilities, and comprehensive educational approach.
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New Horizon Academy
New Horizon Academy
New Horizon Academy in Cambridge serves families throughout the Harris area with their comprehensive early childhood education programs. As part of a respected regional chain with over 50 years of experience, this facility offers research-based curriculum including STEM activities, literacy development, and social skills. The center maintains high safety standards with secure entry systems, trained staff in pediatric first aid/CPR, and rigorous cleaning protocols. Their preschool program focuses on school readiness through play-based learning and structured activities. The facility features modern classrooms, dedicated outdoor play spaces, and nutritious meal programs.
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Little Learners of North Branch
Independent
Little Learners of North Branch provides high-quality preschool education serving families in the Harris region. This independently owned center emphasizes a balanced approach to early learning, combining academic preparation with social development. Their curriculum includes phonics, mathematics readiness, science exploration, and creative arts. The facility features bright, well-equipped classrooms, a secure outdoor playground, and specialized learning centers. With experienced early childhood educators and small class sizes, they offer personalized attention to each child. Parents consistently report high satisfaction with the program's educational quality, communication, and caring environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Harris, MN:
What are the typical costs for preschool programs in Harris, MN?
In Harris, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $200 to $400, depending on the program's schedule and philosophy. Local in-home preschools or church-based programs often offer more affordable rates, while centers with extended hours or specialized curricula may be at the higher end. It's advisable to directly contact providers like Little Learners or Harris Community Preschool for their current fee schedules and to ask about potential income-based scholarships or multi-child discounts.
How do I verify the licensing and safety of a preschool in Harris?
All licensed childcare and preschool programs in Harris are regulated by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS). You can use the DHS online "Look Up a License" tool to review a provider's licensing status, any recorded violations, and capacity. Additionally, you should schedule a visit to observe safety features firsthand, such as secure entrances, clean facilities, and safe outdoor play areas, and ask about staff-to-child ratios and background check policies.
What types of preschool programs are available in Harris, given its smaller community?
Harris offers a mix of preschool settings, including a community-based preschool program often held at the local church or community center, licensed in-home preschools, and part-day options focused on school readiness. Some families also consider family childcare providers that incorporate preschool learning. For more structured or full-day options, parents sometimes look at centers in nearby larger towns like North Branch or Cambridge, which are a short commute away.
When should I apply for preschool enrollment in Harris, and what is the process?
Due to limited slots in a smaller community, it's recommended to begin inquiring and applying 6-12 months before your desired start date, often in the winter or early spring for a fall start. The process usually involves contacting the provider directly for an application, and many may have open houses or require a family visit. For the Harris Community Preschool, enrollment is typically first-come, first-served, so early contact is crucial.
How do preschools in Harris incorporate outdoor and nature-based learning, considering the local environment?
Many Harris preschools leverage the rural and natural setting of Chisago County. Programs often include daily outdoor play in all weather, with activities like garden exploration, nature walks, and seasonal observations being common. Some providers align with Minnesota's "Nature Explore" concepts, using natural materials in play. When touring, ask about their outdoor time policy and how they utilize their play space to connect children with the local environment.
Nearby Cities
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