The Best Preschools in Little Falls, MN
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Little Falls. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Little Falls Community Schools Early Childhood Family Education
Little Falls Community Schools
Operated by the Little Falls public school district, this program offers comprehensive early childhood education with licensed teachers and developmentally appropriate curriculum. The program focuses on school readiness through play-based learning, social-emotional development, and family engagement. They maintain strong safety protocols and have excellent parent satisfaction ratings for their structured yet nurturing environment that prepares children for kindergarten success.
Programs Offered:
New Horizon Academy - Brainerd
New Horizon Academy
As part of Minnesota's largest and most reputable early learning chain, this Brainerd location serves families throughout the region including Little Falls. They offer a research-based curriculum focusing on literacy, math, science, and social skills. The facility features secure access, highly qualified teachers with early childhood degrees, and maintains excellent state licensing compliance. Many families from Little Falls commute to this location for its consistent quality and comprehensive educational approach.
Programs Offered:
Bright Horizons at St. Cloud
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
This nationally accredited early learning center serves the broader Central Minnesota region including Little Falls families. They implement the World at Their Fingers curriculum emphasizing emergent literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts. The center features low student-teacher ratios, degreed early childhood educators, and maintains exceptional health and safety standards. Their comprehensive approach to early education and convenient location makes them a popular choice for commuting families seeking high-quality preschool education.
Programs Offered:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Little Falls, MN:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Little Falls, MN, and are there financial assistance options?
Tuition for preschools in Little Falls typically ranges from $150 to $250 per week, depending on the program's schedule and philosophy. Local options like the Community Schools of Little Falls offer sliding-scale fees and state-funded Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) programs. Additionally, many families qualify for assistance through Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which can be applied for through Morrison County.
How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Little Falls?
All licensed preschools in Minnesota, including those in Little Falls, are regulated by the Department of Human Services (DHS). You can verify a program's license and review any past violations on the Minnesota DHS Licensing Lookup website. For an additional quality indicator, look for programs participating in Minnesota's Parent Aware star-rated system, which evaluates early learning practices.
What are the main types of preschool programs available in Little Falls?
Little Falls offers a mix of public, private, and faith-based preschool options. The Community Schools of Little Falls provide public preschool and ECFE classes, often housed in elementary schools. There are also private childcare centers with preschool curricula and church-affiliated programs, such as those at St. Mary's, which may incorporate religious education alongside standard early learning.
When should I start looking and applying for preschools in Little Falls, given the local demand?
It's advisable to begin your search and inquiries at least 6-12 months before your desired start date, especially for the popular public school district programs. Enrollment for the Community Schools' preschool typically opens in early spring for the following fall. Many private centers have rolling enrollment but may maintain waitlists, so contacting them well in advance is key.
Are there preschools in Little Falls that offer flexible schedules or cater to working parents?
Yes, several local childcare centers offer full-day, year-round preschool programs designed for working families, with typical hours from 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM. The public school district programs often provide part-day, school-year options, which may require supplemental childcare. When touring, be sure to ask specifically about hours, early drop-off/late pick-up policies, and closure schedules.
Nearby Cities
Explore preschools in cities near Little Falls:
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across Minnesota or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.