Early Childhood Academy – Frequently Asked Questions

We know that choosing the right childcare is a big decision, and we’re here to help! Here are some of the most common questions we receive from families. If you don’t see your question here, feel free to reach out—we’d love to chat!

👶 What ages do you accept at your childcare centers?

We welcome little learners from 6 weeks to 5 years old in our infant, toddler, preschool, and Pre-K programs. Looking for care for an older child? Our Red Wing and New Prague locations also offer before/after school care and summer programs for school-age children up to 8 years old!

⏰ What are your operating hours, and do you ever close?

We’re here for your family Monday through Friday with flexible hours:
🕡 New Prague & Belle Plaine: 6:30 AM – 5:30 PM. 
🕕 Red Wing: 6:00 AM – 5:30 PM. 

We are closed 12 days a year for major holidays and staff training. In the event of inclement weather, we make decisions based on the safety of our staff and families, but we do NOT follow local school closures. If the Governor of Minnesota orders travel restrictions or business closures, we will follow state guidelines.

🚗 Parents, we trust you to use your best judgment when deciding if it’s safe to travel!

📚 What curriculum do you follow?

We believe that learning should be engaging, exciting, and developmentally appropriate! Our Parent Aware-endorsed curriculum includes:
✔️ Play-based learning that fosters creativity and critical thinking
✔️ Social-emotional development to build confidence and communication skills
✔️ Early literacy and language activities
✔️ STEM exploration to spark curiosity and problem-solving
Every day at ECA is filled with opportunities for learning, discovery, and FUN!

👩‍🏫 What are your staff-to-child ratios?

We maintain low teacher-to-child ratios to ensure that each child receives the individualized attention they deserve.
👶 Infants – 1 teacher for every 4 children
🚼 Toddlers – 1 teacher for every 7 children
🎒 Preschool/Pre-K – 1 teacher for every 10 children
📚 School-Agers – 1 teacher for every 15 children
This allows our educators to foster strong relationships and provide quality learning experiences in a safe and structured environment.

🔒 What safety measures do you have in place?

Your child’s safety and well-being are our top priority! Here’s how we keep our Academy secure:
🔹 Secure entry & surveillance systems 🚪🎥
🔹 CPR & first aid-certified staff ⛑️
🔹 Monthly tornado & fire drills 🔥🌪️
🔹 Emergency preparedness training for all staff
Every location follows a Risk Reduction Plan and a Child Care Emergency Plan, which are reviewed and updated annually.

🥜 How do you handle allergies and dietary restrictions?

We take food allergies and dietary restrictions very seriously. Our team works closely with parents to accommodate special dietary needs and provide a safe environment for all children.
🌟 We are a peanut-free Academy! 🌟

🌟 What is your approach to discipline and behavior management?

We believe in positive guidance and teaching through encouragement, not punishment. Our staff uses:
✅ Positive reinforcement to encourage good choices
✅ Redirection techniques to guide behavior in a supportive way
✅ Collaboration with families to address concerns and create individualized strategies
We focus on helping children build self-regulation skills while fostering a kind and respectful learning environment.

📆 Do you offer part-time enrollment options?

Yes! We understand that every family’s needs are different, so we offer flexible part-time enrollment to help fit your schedule.

📲 How do you keep parents informed about their child’s progress?

We believe in open communication and transparency! 💙 Parents stay connected through:
📲 Child Pilot Parent App – Daily updates, messages, and real-time activity tracking
👩‍🏫 Parent-Teacher Conferences – Twice a year to discuss progress & goals
🌐 Social Media & Website – Follow us on Facebook & Instagram to see all the amazing learning happening every day!
We’re always available to chat, answer questions, or celebrate milestones with you!

🏆 What sets Early Childhood Academy apart from other childcare centers?

At ECA, we’re more than just a childcare center—we’re a home away from home where children learn, grow, and thrive!
✔️ Highly trained & caring educators who treat every child like family
✔️ Play-based curriculum that builds a love for learning
✔️ A focus on safety, structure, and individualized care
✔️ A strong sense of community, welcoming families from all backgrounds
When you choose Early Childhood Academy, you’re choosing quality, trust, and a nurturing environment where your child can shine!

📞 Have More Questions? Let’s Chat!

We’d love to answer any additional questions you have! Contact us today to learn more, schedule a tour, or enroll your child in one of our three Minnesota locations: New Prague, Belle Plaine, and Red Wing.
📞 Call us today!