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The Best Preschools in Merrifield, MN

Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Merrifield. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.

3 Quality Preschools
4.4 Average Rating

New Horizon Academy

New Horizon Academy

4.4/ 5.0
50+ years experience

New Horizon Academy is a highly-regarded early childhood education provider with locations throughout Minnesota, including the Brainerd area serving Merrifield families. They offer comprehensive early learning programs with research-based curriculum focusing on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The facility maintains high safety standards with secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and rigorous health protocols. Their experienced teachers hold early childhood credentials and provide individualized attention in structured, nurturing environments. Parents consistently praise the engaging educational activities and professional staff.

Programs Offered:

Infant CareToddler CarePreschoolPre-KindergartenSchool-Age Care
15768 State Highway 371, Brainerd, MN 56401

Kids' World Child Care & Learning Center

Kids' World Child Care

4.2/ 5.0
20+ years experience

Kids' World Child Care & Learning Center in nearby Baxter serves the greater Brainerd Lakes area including Merrifield families. This established center provides a balanced curriculum incorporating play-based learning with structured academic preparation. Their preschool program emphasizes kindergarten readiness through literacy development, early math concepts, and social skills. The center features modern facilities with age-appropriate learning environments and outdoor play areas. Safety is prioritized with secure access systems and trained staff. Parents appreciate the consistent communication and developmentally appropriate activities.

Programs Offered:

Full-Day Child CarePreschool ProgramBefore & After School CareSummer Program
14268 Baxter Drive, Baxter, MN 56425

Little Learners Child Development Center

Little Learners Child Development Center

4.5/ 5.0
15+ years experience

Little Learners Child Development Center in Baxter serves families throughout the Brainerd Lakes region, including Merrifield. This highly-rated facility offers a comprehensive early childhood program with emphasis on school readiness and whole-child development. Their curriculum integrates STEM activities, literacy development, creative arts, and physical education. The center maintains low student-teacher ratios and employs qualified early childhood educators. Safety protocols include secure entry systems, regular safety drills, and health monitoring. Parents consistently report high satisfaction with the educational quality and nurturing environment.

Programs Offered:

Infant CareToddler ProgramPreschoolPre-KSchool-Age Child Care
14902 Edgewood Drive, Baxter, MN 56425

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about preschools in Merrifield, MN:

What is the typical cost of preschool in Merrifield, MN, and are there financial assistance options?

In Merrifield and the surrounding Brainerd Lakes area, preschool tuition can range from approximately $150 to $250 per week, depending on the program's schedule and philosophy. Minnesota offers state-funded Early Learning Scholarships and the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for qualifying families, which many local providers accept. It's best to contact individual centers directly to inquire about their specific rates and available aid.

How do I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Merrifield?

All licensed childcare centers and preschools in Minnesota are regulated by the Department of Human Services (DHS). You can use the state's online "Look Up a License" tool to check a specific Merrifield provider's licensing status, any past violations, and their program type. Additionally, many high-quality programs in Crow Wing County pursue voluntary accreditation through organizations like the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

What types of preschool programs are available in the Merrifield area?

Options in the Merrifield region include traditional center-based preschools, faith-based programs often found at local churches, and nature-based or outdoor-focused schools that leverage the area's natural environment. Many programs offer part-time schedules (e.g., 2-3 mornings a week) common in community-based preschools, as well as full-time care to accommodate working parents.

When should I start looking and applying for preschools in Merrifield, MN?

For a fall start, it is highly recommended to begin your search and tours in the winter or early spring (January-March), as many popular local programs have enrollment periods that fill quickly. Some preschools associated with the Brainerd School District or larger centers may have specific lottery or registration dates, so contacting them 6-9 months in advance is wise.

Are there unique considerations for preschools in a smaller community like Merrifield?

Yes, transportation can be a key factor, as bus service is typically not provided for preschool in this area, so parents must arrange drop-off and pick-up. The community-oriented nature of Merrifield means many preschools have strong local connections and may incorporate outdoor activities tied to the lakes and forests. It's also common for families to consider programs in nearby larger towns like Brainerd for more options.

Finding the Right Fit: Exploring Christian Preschools in the Merrifield Area

For parents in Merrifield and the surrounding lakes area, the search for a preschool is about more than just ABCs and 123s. It’s about finding a nurturing environment where your child’s social, emotional, and spiritual growth is gently encouraged. If you’ve found yourself typing “christian preschools near me” into your search bar, you’re likely looking for a program that aligns with your family’s values while providing a strong educational foundation. The good news is that the Brainerd Lakes region, which includes our community, offers several wonderful Christian early childhood options that feel both supportive and enriching.

Choosing a Christian preschool in our area means your child will experience learning woven with faith-based principles. This often translates to a curriculum where kindness, forgiveness, and gratitude are taught alongside colors, shapes, and early literacy skills. In a typical classroom, you might find children singing songs of praise during circle time, hearing age-appropriate Bible stories that teach moral lessons, and learning to pray before snack time. This integrated approach helps young children develop a sense of wonder and a framework for understanding the world through a lens of love and compassion. It provides a consistent message between home and school, which is incredibly reassuring for a young child taking their first steps into a structured setting.

As you begin your search locally, consider what matters most to your family beyond the faith-based component. Think about practicalities like the school’s schedule—do they offer half-day programs that work for your routine, or are you in need of extended care? Location is also key; a preschool in Baxter, Brainerd, or Nisswa might be a manageable commute from Merrifield and could offer the specific program you desire. We encourage you to visit in person. Schedule a tour during school hours so you can observe the classroom dynamic. Notice how the teachers interact with the children. Are they kneeling to speak at eye level? Is the atmosphere one of patient guidance? These observations are as important as any brochure.

Don’t hesitate to ask specific questions during your visit. Inquire about the educational background of the teachers and their approach to early learning. Ask how social conflicts between children are resolved and how Christian values are practically applied throughout the day. Talk to other parents in the Merrifield area who have children enrolled; their firsthand experiences can be invaluable. Remember, the best fit is where your child feels safe, joyful, and curious. A quality Christian preschool in our community will foster a love for learning and a heart for others, setting a beautiful cornerstone for your child’s educational journey right here in the heart of Minnesota.

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