Rochester MN Guide to Early Education

This guide is sponsored by the businesses listed below.

Finding the right early education and preschool option for your child can feel like a big decision, and it is. If you are just beginning your search or narrowing down your choices, our Rochester MN Guide to Early Education and Preschool is designed to make the process feel simpler, more informed, and less overwhelming.

From play-based preschool programs to full-time childcare and in-home daycare, there are many different paths within early education. The right fit depends on your child, your schedule, and your family’s priorities. The providers featured here are ready to share what makes their programs unique and help you find a setting where your child can learn, grow, and thrive.

Here is a quick look at the most common early education and preschool options:

Preschool: Designed for ages 3 to 5, preschool programs focus on social, emotional, and early academic skills. Many are part-time and follow a school-year schedule, though some offer full-day or year-round options.

Childcare Centers: These programs typically provide full-time, year-round care for infants through pre-K, and sometimes school-age children. A great option for working families who need consistent support.

In-Home Daycare: Licensed providers offer care in a home setting, creating a smaller, more personal environment that can feel like an extension of family life.

Beyond early education and preschool listings, you will also find helpful resources, including sitter options, in-home care, and local county services, all designed to support your family at every stage.

No matter where you land, our goal is to help you feel confident, supported, and excited about your child’s early learning journey.

EPIC is a STEM preschool learning lab designed to ignite curiosity and foster a love for learning. At EPIC Endeavors Academy, we seek to prioritize hands-on experiences and personalize the learning to empower our youngest scholars to become readers writers and creative problem solvers. At EPIC our staff seek to have every child leave us well prepared for kindergarten and beyond.

EPIC Endeavors is known for preparing students to leave preschool reading or ready to read. Enrollment is now open for our full-day preschool program, offering flexible options to meet your family’s needs. Choose from a standard school day (8:30 AM to 3:45 PM), add early drop-off or late pick-up, or opt for a full-day care package from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM. We also offer half-day morning or afternoon options.

Join us in shaping a bright future for your child! Text Trista for a tour today! (507) 319-5709

New Horizon Academy is a nationally accredited provider of childcare and early childhood education, proudly serving families with two convenient locations in Rochester. Through a research-based curriculum, strong focus on social-emotional development, and high-quality care, New Horizon Academy’s experienced teachers help children build the skills and confidence they need to succeed in kindergarten—and beyond.

New Horizon Academy is also making life easier for busy parents. All infant classrooms include FREE diapers, along with wipes, infant food, solid food, whole milk, and bottles as part of tuition. This thoughtful benefit helps simplify mornings while ensuring infants receive the highest level of care and nutrition throughout the day.

Visit newhorizonacademy.net to learn more about the benefits of New Horizon Academy’s early learning programs, take a look inside the classrooms, and schedule a tour.

Preschool is all about wonderful new learning experiences that build skills for a lifetime. It is about turning everyday experiences and interactions into powerful opportunities for learning. At Rochester Public Schools – Preschool we understand that each child has unique educational needs and we emphasize learning through age-appropriate practice in a play-based environment. We use purposeful play because we know that our young students learn best in a playful, hands-on setting. We also believe that effective learning takes place when we build and sustain strong partnerships and relationships with our students and their families. To best meet the varied needs of the children and families we serve, we offer a variety of locations, times, and programming options.

Kingdom Kids Christian Preschool prepares children for kindergarten through a highly interactive, developmentally appropriate curriculum rooted in God’s Word.

Licensed by the Minnesota Department of Human Services and accredited by the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), we partner with families to nurture the whole child—academically, socially, and spiritually—because we believe every child is made in God’s image and has incredible intrinsic value. Families consistently share that their children feel known, loved, and excited to learn, and that Kingdom Kids provides a safe, caring environment where kids truly thrive.

With flexible program options, experienced teachers, and a proven track record of students who stand out in kindergarten, Kingdom Kids provides a trusted foundation for lifelong learning and faith.

A loving and nurturing preschool for children to have a positive first school experience in a faith-filled environment.

We care for the whole child—encouraging their spiritual, social, emotional, physical, and academic growth—so they can thrive in every area of life.

“At Rainbow School, the curriculum inspires creativity and learning through play, while also encouraging positive social and emotional growth. Rainbow school has set such a wonderful foundation of learning for our children during their early years. It is comforting to know our child is not only learning and growing but is also loved and valued.” 

– RS Parent

Rainbow School offers safe, welcoming classrooms, a thoughtfully balanced curriculum of play and academics, and caring, qualified teachers who truly invest in each child’s growth.

Aldrich School is a local, non-profit, nationally accredited nursery school that holds a special place in the hearts of countless children and families. The Aldrich program provides a play-based learning environment with developmentally appropriate experiences in all areas of growth including cognitive, physical, social/emotional, and language development.

Aldrich has a rich history and quality reputation in the Rochester community. Pediatricians and child psychiatrists, including Dr. Benjamin Spock, were involved in a Mayo Clinic study of child development in the 1940s which eventually led to the inception of Aldrich.

Having served the children of Rochester for 80 years, Aldrich has touched tens of thousands of lives in Minnesota and beyond. We love seeing former Aldrich students succeed and really love when they bring their own children back to enroll.

At First Steps Academy, you’re choosing a nurturing environment where your child’s development is our focus. Located in Rochester, our academy offers a secure and engaging space for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. You’ll find our individualized lesson plans and strict child-to-teacher ratios ensure personalized attention. Our CDA-credentialed teachers are committed to fostering a love for learning while maintaining a safe and healthy environment. Imagine the joy of seeing your child thrive in a place where every day is an adventure. Our secure facility and nutritious meals provide peace of mind, knowing your child is in good hands. Why not visit us and see for yourself?

Join us at First Steps Academy in Rochester, MN, where your child’s journey begins. Our doors are open for you to explore and learn more about our programs. We’re excited to welcome you and your family to our community.

At Gan Rochester Preschool, we believe in child-centered learning. Inspired by Reggio Emilia and Montessori philosophies, learning unfolds through play, exploration, and meaningful connection. Our classrooms are thoughtfully designed to create a calm, inviting environment that encourages curiosity, independence, and creativity. Our teachers nurture each child with care and intention, providing the individual attention needed to support growth during these formative years. We strive to create a space where every child feels safe and secure, building the confidence to thrive both socially and emotionally.

Gan serves children ages 6 months to 5 years and offers year-round care with extended hours to support a variety of family schedules. We invite you to schedule a tour and experience our space firsthand.

At Tierra Encantada, your child will be immersed in the Spanish language as they learn through play, conversation, and everyday experiences. Beyond language learning, our play-based curriculum and scratch-made, globally inspired meals support children’s cognitive, social-emotional, and physical development. Visit our 4-Star Parent Aware–rated centers to see the Tierra Encantada difference.

Ages: 6 Weeks – Pre-K