Families in Belle Plaine, MN who are looking for high-quality child care and early learning opportunities now have exciting options! Early Childhood Academy is actively enrolling for our Toddler classrooms (24–33 months) as well as our brand-new Waddler program (ages 12–24 months).

These programs are designed to support children in their earliest stages of growth, giving them the skills, confidence, and routines they need to thrive as they move toward preschool and beyond.

Why Choose the Waddler Program (12–24 Months)?
The Waddler classroom at Early Childhood Academy is specially designed for children who are just beginning to explore the world with confidence. In this nurturing and structured environment, children:

• Develop motor and regulation skills to successfully engage with peers.
• Gain independence during routines, including mealtime.
• Transition to one nap per day, practice sleeping on a cot, and strengthen early sleep habits.
• Build early communication skills, supporting both language and social development.

This stage is all about exploration, consistency, and small steps toward independence—all within a safe, loving classroom community.

Bridging to the Toddler Classroom (24–33 Months)
As children graduate from the Waddler room, they’re ready to transition seamlessly into our Toddler program, which emphasizes even more independence and self-regulation.

In our Toddler classrooms, children learn:

• Potty training skills and bathroom routines.
• Self-regulation tools to help them handle emotions and social situations.
• Preschool readiness habits, such as following routines, practicing group activities, and gaining confidence in learning settings.

This program serves as a bridge to preschool, ensuring children have the foundational skills they’ll need for long-term academic and social success.

A Focus on Readiness and Success
At Early Childhood Academy – Belle Plaine, our mission is to create environments where children can thrive at every stage. From learning to walk confidently and communicate basic needs in the Waddler room to gaining independence and preparing for preschool in the Toddler classroom, each step is carefully designed to set children up for success.

Enroll Today in Belle Plaine, MN
If your child is between 12–33 months and you’re seeking a program that combines nurturing care with meaningful skill-building, we invite you to join our Belle Plaine community. Spaces are limited, and enrollment is open now for both Waddlers and Toddlers.

Contact Early Childhood Academy – Belle Plaine today to learn more or schedule a tour. Give your child the strong start they deserve!

Looking for a rewarding job in New Prague, MN that makes a real difference in your community? At Early Childhood Academy (ECA), we believe that work should be more than a paycheck—it should spark joy, grow futures, and leave you proud of the impact you make. That’s why we’re hiring aide-qualified professionals, including high school students who are passionate about working with children.
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This is your chance to be the extra set of hands that brightens a child’s day, while gaining valuable experience, skills, and career opportunities in early education.

Why Work at ECA in New Prague?
ECA is a 4-Star Parent Aware–accredited early education program, known for our commitment to quality care and educator empowerment. At our New Prague center, you’ll find a supportive, team-focused environment that feels more like family than a workplace.

Here’s what makes ECA different:

• On-the-job coaching and mentoring to help you grow your skills while you work
• Paid professional development days and leadership opportunities for career growth
• Ready-to-use curriculum that gives structure and support to your classroom experience
• Positive team culture where your creativity and ideas are encouraged
• Clear advancement pathways—we promote from within and celebrate your successes
• Creative freedom to bring your unique energy and ideas into the classroom

Your Role as a Classroom Aide
As a classroom aide, you’ll work alongside experienced teachers and staff to:

• Assist with classroom activities and supervision
• Support daily care routines, learning experiences, and play
• Prepare materials, set up activities, and help keep classrooms organized
• Build nurturing connections with children ages 6 weeks to 12 years
• Ensure safety and cleanliness in the classroom environment

It’s hands-on, meaningful work where no two days are the same—and where your presence truly matters.

Who We’re Looking For
We welcome high schoolers and other applicants who bring:

• A heart for children and a genuine love of working with young learners
• Energy and enthusiasm for creating fun, engaging experiences
• Team spirit and communication skills to collaborate with staff and families
• Reliability and responsibility for consistent, quality care

No prior education or training required. Pediatric CPR/First Aid certification is preferred but not required—we’ll help you grow into the role.

Applicants must have reliable transportation and successfully pass a DHS background check.

What We Offer
At ECA, we invest in our team because we know our staff are the heart of our academy.

Benefits include:

• Competitive pay with opportunities for advancement
• Health insurance options and paid time off
• Paid holidays and professional development support
• Employee discounts on childcare services
• Recognition programs that celebrate your contributions

Apply Today in New Prague, MN
If you’re a high schooler—or anyone looking for a purposeful job in New Prague—this is your chance to join a supportive team, gain valuable career experience, and make every child’s day a little brighter.

Apply now at Early Childhood Academy – New Prague and take the first step toward a rewarding future in early childhood education.

Labor Day weekend is the perfect time for families to celebrate together, enjoy the outdoors, and make memories before the school year gets into full swing. At Early Childhood Academy, we believe that activities should not only be fun but also support children’s growth and development at every stage.

Here are some age-appropriate ideas to enjoy with your little ones this Labor Day weekend:

Infants (6 weeks – 16 months)
For infants, the goal is gentle stimulation and bonding.

• Sensory Play: Use a shallow bin with soft fabric squares in red, white, and blue. Let your baby touch, crinkle, and explore the textures.
• Outdoor Time: A stroller walk in the park lets babies experience new sights, sounds, and fresh air.
• Music & Movement: Play soft patriotic or family-friendly tunes and rock or sway with your baby—movement supports early motor development.

Toddlers (16 – 24 months)
Toddlers are curious explorers who thrive on movement and interaction.

• Water Play: Set up a small splash station outside with cups and scoops. Supervised water play builds motor skills and keeps them cool.
• Parade Pretend Play: Hand toddlers small flags or streamers and let them march around the yard or living room—great for gross motor coordination.
• Simple Picnic: Toddlers love routines—make snack time special by sitting on a blanket outside and practicing self-feeding skills.

Preschool (3 – 4 years)
Preschoolers learn best through hands-on experiences and imagination.

• Color Sorting Game: Provide red, white, and blue toys or paper squares and have children sort by color. Builds early math and classification skills.
• Mini Parade: Create musical shakers from plastic bottles filled with rice or beans and let preschoolers “parade” around the yard.
• Story Time Outdoors: Read a short book about community helpers or hard work under a shady tree—linking the theme of Labor Day with learning.

Pre-Kindergarten (4 – 5 years)
Pre-K children are ready for more structured play and love contributing to family activities.

• Craft Project: Help children make handprint flags or “thank you” cards for workers in the community (firefighters, mail carriers, grocery clerks).
• Scavenger Hunt: Hide small items in the yard and provide clues—encourages problem-solving, memory, and teamwork.
• Family Cooking Together: Let them help wash veggies, stir batter, or set the table for a Labor Day meal—supports independence and fine motor skills.

School Age (6 – 8 years)
Older children enjoy challenges, teamwork, and taking on responsibilities.

• Backyard Games: Organize relay races, tug-of-war, or obstacle courses to build physical strength and cooperation.
• DIY Lemonade Stand: With supervision, children can help mix lemonade, make a simple sign, and “serve” family members—learning responsibility and money basics.
• Community Connection: Visit a local parade, farmers’ market, or community event and talk about the meaning of Labor Day and the value of hard work.

Labor Day is more than a long weekend—it’s a celebration of the hardworking people who build and support our communities. By choosing activities that match your child’s stage of development, you’ll not only have fun but also nurture important skills. Whether it’s an infant enjoying a sensory walk, a preschooler proudly marching in a homemade parade, or a school-age child running backyard games, the memories you make this Labor Day weekend will last far beyond the holiday.

At Early Childhood Academy, we’re proud to support families in fostering learning, laughter, and growth at every stage.

Mark your calendar for Czech Out New Prague Day on August 7, 2025! 🇨🇿

Early Childhood Academy’s New Prague team will be out in full force at this fun local event. Come visit our booth for hands-on kids’ activities, meet our teachers, and learn more about what makes ECA a trusted choice for early learning in your community.

It’s a great opportunity to explore New Prague’s businesses, connect with neighbors, and discover new resources for your family.

Tips for a Fun Day with Your Little One:
Events like these are a blast for kids--with just a little prep! Bring sunscreen, water, snacks, and maybe a favorite toy or stroller for breaks. Stop by early before it gets too hot or crowded, and follow your child’s lead--short bursts of fun go a long way!
And of course, swing by the ECA booth for free activities and friendly faces! 😊

📍 Details at: newprague.com
We can’t wait to “Czech” you out there!

We’re excited to announce that Early Childhood Academy will be at River City Days in Red Wing, MN on August 1–2, 2025! 🎉

Stop by our booth to meet our amazing team, enjoy fun activities for the little ones, and learn more about our early learning programs. Whether you're a current family or just starting to explore your childcare options, we’d love to connect with you.

River City Days is a weekend full of family fun, entertainment, and community pride — and we’re proud to be a part of it!

Tips for a Fun Day with Your Little One:
Events like these are a blast for kids--with just a little prep! Bring sunscreen, water, snacks, and maybe a favorite toy or stroller for breaks. Stop by early before it gets too hot or crowded, and follow your child’s lead--short bursts of fun go a long way!

And of course, swing by the ECA booth for free activities and friendly faces! 😊

📍 Learn more about the event: rivercitydays.org

We’ll see you there!

Memorial Day is more than just the unofficial start of summer—it's a time to pause and reflect on the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. While the concept of military sacrifice can be difficult for young children to fully understand, it's never too early to begin nurturing gratitude, empathy, and awareness. At Early Childhood Academy, we believe in guiding children through meaningful moments with age-appropriate activities that encourage family connection and thoughtful conversation.

🇺🇸
1. Create a “Thank You” Flag Craft
Use construction paper, stickers, or handprints to make a flag with the words “Thank You” or “We Remember.” Hang it in a window or front door.

2. Visit a Local Memorial or Flag Display
Take a short walk or drive to see American flags or monuments in your area. Talk with your child about what they mean in simple terms: “These are for the people who helped keep us safe.”

3. Read a Book About Heroes or Helping Others
Choose age-appropriate books about community helpers, soldiers, or themes of kindness and bravery. (Bonus if the characters are animals!)

4. Watch the Parade (Even If It’s Online)
If there’s a Memorial Day parade in your town—or even a video of one—watch it together and point out the music, flags, and uniforms.

5. Bake a Red, White, and Blue Treat
Let kids help in the kitchen with something festive like fruit skewers, Jell-O cups, or decorated sugar cookies.

6. Write or Draw a Thank You Letter
Encourage your child to draw a picture or write (with your help) a letter to a soldier or veteran. There are organizations that accept mailed thank-you notes year-round.

7. Plant Flowers Together
Choose red, white, or blue flowers and let your child help plant them in memory of someone. It’s a beautiful, living tribute.

8. Just Spend Time Together
Ultimately, Memorial Day is about reflection and connection. A picnic, board game, or nature walk can be a meaningful way to spend the day.

However you choose to spend this Memorial Day, we hope it's filled with love, learning, and togetherness. Whether you're planting flowers, reading stories, or simply enjoying extra time with your little ones, know that every moment matters. From all of us at Early Childhood Academy, thank you for raising children with compassion and curiosity—and for honoring the true meaning of this important day.

Mother’s Day is more than just a holiday—it’s a heartfelt reminder to slow down and appreciate the love, energy, and patience moms pour into their families every day. Whether it's a hug after a scraped knee, a bedtime story read for the tenth time, or the magic of always knowing where everything is, moms deserve to be celebrated in ways big and small.

At Early Childhood Academy, we believe in simple, meaningful moments. Here are a few ideas for helping your little ones show mom how much she’s loved:
1. Make a “Mom Book”
Gather drawings, silly quotes, and sweet messages from the kids to create a one-of-a-kind booklet for mom. It doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be from the heart.

2. Plan a Mommy-and-Me Date
It could be a picnic at the park, a backyard tea party, or a trip to the library. Giving kids a role in planning the day builds excitement and makes mom feel extra special.

3. Create a Relaxation Station
Help the kids set up a cozy space with mom’s favorite blanket, books, snacks, and maybe even a homemade “do not disturb” sign. Bonus points for quiet time!

4. Breakfast (or snack) Made by Little Hands
With a little help, toddlers and preschoolers can prepare simple treats—think toast with jam, fruit kabobs, or a yogurt parfait.

5. Simply Say Thank You
Encourage kids to say what they love most about their mom. You might be surprised (and amused!) by what they come up with.
Let’s not forget that many children are surrounded by incredible women who take on a mother’s role—grandmas, aunties, guardians, teachers, and more. Mother’s Day is a great opportunity to honor all of them.

From our Early Childhood Academy family to yours: Happy Mother’s Day to every mom and mother figure.
You are seen, loved, and appreciated.

Are you a parent in Minnesota searching for a nurturing, high-quality early childhood education center for your child? Look no further than Early Childhood Academy, with locations in Red Wing, Belle Plaine, and New Prague. This blog post will dive into what makes Early Childhood Academy a top choice for families, while also exploring the broader landscape of early childhood education in Minnesota. Whether you're seeking daycare, preschool, or toddler care, Early Childhood Academy offers a supportive environment for your child’s growth and development.

What is Early Childhood Academy?
Early Childhood Academy is a trusted childcare provider serving families across three Minnesota locations: Red Wing, Belle Plaine, and New Prague. With a mission to provide high-quality, consistent care, the academy creates a welcoming environment that gives parents peace of mind while they’re away from their children. They offer a range of programs, including:

• Daycare: For infants and toddlers, ensuring a safe and stimulating environment.
  
• Preschool: Focused on preparing children for kindergarten through structured learning and play.
  
• Toddler Care: Tailored activities to support early developmental milestones.
  

The academy emphasizes meaningful employment for its staff, fostering a team of dedicated educators who are passionate about early childhood development. They also actively engage with families, building strong partnerships to ensure every child is supported academically, emotionally, and socially. As stated in their mission, they aim to be "an asset to the community by being involved, offering families opportunities to spend quality time together, and being the first choice for early childhood education."

In Red Wing, Early Childhood Academy operates as a licensed child care center with a maximum capacity of 164 children, accepting infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children.

Why Choose Early Childhood Academy?
Here are some standout features that make Early Childhood Academy a top pick for parents in Minnesota:

• High-Quality Care and Education
  

Early Childhood Academy is committed to delivering consistent, high-quality care. Their programs are designed to nurture children’s growth through love, education, and fun. Parents rave about the supportive staff, with testimonials highlighting the academy’s impact:  
“Our child started attending ECA at 8 weeks old, he is now almost 8 months old and thriving! The staff is amazing and so supportive - we are comforted knowing our child is getting the BEST care each day!” – RP  

“We love it here and our child loves it here! It’s a clean and safe environment full of enriching activities to promote learning.” – AR

Community Involvement
The academy prides itself on being an influential role model in the community. They welcome families, foster partnerships, and provide opportunities for quality family time, making them a cornerstone of early childhood education in Red Wing, Belle Plaine, and New Prague.

Developmental Support
Early Childhood Academy offers guidance on developmental milestones. For example, they share insights on what 3-year-olds should be achieving, such as asking “who, what, where, and why” questions, joining other children to play, drawing simple shapes, and dressing themselves. They also provide resources like CDC milestone checklists to help parents track progress. [Ref web ID: 2]

Family Engagement
The academy keeps parents connected through regular updates, such as messages and photos, which provide peace of mind. Parents appreciate this transparency, with one noting, “The message and picture updates of our son give us so much peace of mind throughout the day!” – JZ

Career Opportunities
For those passionate about working with children, Early Childhood Academy is hiring talented educators and support staff at all three locations. This commitment to meaningful employment ensures a dedicated and skilled team for your child’s care.

Early Childhood Education in Minnesota: A Broader Perspective
Minnesota is a leader in early childhood education, with a strong emphasis on preparing children for kindergarten and lifelong learning. Here’s how Early Childhood Academy fits into the state’s broader educational landscape:

Statewide Support for Early Learning
The Minnesota Department of Education supports initiatives like Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE), School Readiness, and Head Start, which provide programming for children from birth to age 5. These programs align with Minnesota’s vision that all children are prepared for kindergarten and third-grade reading. Early Childhood Academy complements these efforts by offering high-quality preschool and daycare services that align with state standards.

Developmental Standards
Minnesota’s Early Childhood Indicators of Progress (ECIPs) set developmentally appropriate expectations for children from birth to kindergarten. Early Childhood Academy incorporates these standards by focusing on milestones like language development, social skills, and early literacy, ensuring children are ready for the next steps in their education.

Access to Scholarships
Minnesota offers Early Learning Scholarships to help families access high-quality childcare. These scholarships can be used at Parent Aware-rated programs, which include many centers like Early Childhood Academy, ensuring affordability for families in Red Wing, Belle Plaine, and New Prague.

Screening and Special Education
Minnesota requires Early Childhood Screening before kindergarten to identify potential health or developmental concerns. Early Childhood Academy supports this process by fostering an inclusive environment and collaborating with families to address individual needs. Additionally, centers like Colvill Family Center in Red Wing provide early childhood special education services, which complement the academy’s offerings.

Focus on Literacy and Social Skills
Programs like SEEDS of Literacy, offered through New Prague Area Schools, emphasize literacy-rich environments and social-emotional development. Early Childhood Academy aligns with this focus by creating engaging, play-based learning opportunities that prepare children for kindergarten.

Tips for Parents Considering Early Childhood Academy
Choosing the right daycare or preschool is a big decision. Here are some prompts to help you evaluate if Early Childhood Academy is the right fit for your family:

• What do I want for my child’s care? Consider if you prioritize a nurturing environment, structured learning, or community involvement—all of which Early Childhood Academy offers.
  
• What is my top hope for my child’s experience? Reflect on whether you want your child to gain social skills, independence, or a love for learning, which the academy fosters through its programs.
  
• What am I excited for my child to experience? Think about the joy of your child making new friends, participating in enriching activities, or enjoying a clean, safe environment—hallmarks of Early Childhood Academy.
  

Visit Early Childhood Academy Today
If you’re in Red Wing, Belle Plaine, or New Prague, Early Childhood Academy is a fantastic option for your child’s early education. Their commitment to high-quality care, family engagement, and community involvement sets them apart as a leader in Minnesota’s early childhood education landscape.

For parents seeking a daycare or preschool that combines education, care, and community, Early Childhood Academy is a shining choice in Minnesota. Give your child the best start—explore Early Childhood Academy today!

Learning to read is a major milestone in your child’s life. Building early literacy and language skills early in life make learning to read easier and more enjoyable for your child later on. At Early Childhood Academy, we work on these skills daily to prepare your child for a lifetime of reading.

Vocabulary is a major predictor of reading success in children. The more words your child knows, the greater their ability to comprehend text. Building early literacy and a large vocabulary starts young. A study of 18-month-olds found that children who are surrounded by adults who speak with them have a vocabulary that is 185 words larger than their peers who have not been exposed to verbal interactions.

From birth to age 5, children acquire new words at a faster rate than at any time of their lives. Kindergarteners have mastered three-fifths of all the vocabulary they will ever acquire. This means your child’s time with us is a precious opportunity to build a large vocabulary that prepares them for reading success throughout their lives.

Every activity at the Academy is an opportunity to build your child’s vocabulary. On any given day, we may discuss the sizes, colors, and shapes of objects your child is playing with, or of objects in the room. We may point out the position of objects using location words (on, off, in, out, behind, on top of, over, under, etc.). This gives your child the language to describe the world around them.

Did you know how to handle a book is an early literacy skill? At the Academy, we include book etiquette as part of our early literacy and language curriculum. We teach children how to hold a book right-side-up and start reading at the front of the book. We show them how to turn pages one at a time and treat books with care. We also help your child understand that books live in a special place, and that we need to put them back when we are finished reading. 

Critical thinking is your child’s ability to evaluate a situation. This may be a real-world situation or something they encounter as they read or learn. Critical thinking questions encourage higher-order thinking that builds your child’s ability to think abstractly, make connections between two concepts, and solve problems. Higher-order thinking is what helps your child be a creative, evaluative, and innovative learner throughout their lives.

Developing higher-order thinking skills starts in early literacy. Here are some of the questions we ask our young readers during and after story times:

• What do you see in the pictures?
  
• Why do you think that character is acting that way?
• What will happen next?
• What was your favorite part?
• Which character would you want to be?
• How would you change the ending?
  

Finally, our teachers understand that developing your child’s early literacy and language skills is a joint effort. We encourage you to spend at least 20 minutes every day reading with your children. Reading at home is an enjoyable way to connect with your child, expand their knowledge of the world, and help them process strong emotions. 

Here’s how you can build early literacy and language skills at home with your kiddos:

• Choose stories or topics that interest your child.
• Find books with words that will expand their spoken language.
  
• Include informational books, such as books on animals, nature, trucks, space, etc.
• Ask your child to identify the letters they know and teach them the sounds those letters make.
• Use your finger to track the words as you read.
• Ask your child the critical thinking questions we use at the Academy.

At Early Childhood Academy, our teachers are committed to building your child’s early literacy and language skills throughout their time with us, from infancy to preschool. To learn more about our literacy curriculum or to schedule a tour of one of our location, get in touch with us today!

We are committed to providing high quality early childhood education to the community. We believe that all children deserve the opportunity to reach their full potential, and we are dedicated to providing them with the tools and support they need to succeed.

If you are looking for a high-quality early childhood education program for your child, we encourage you to contact us today. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have and schedule a tour of our academy.