So Much More Than Childcare

Infant Program | Toddler Program | Preschool Progam | School-Age Program

Creative Kids Academy provides a nurturing environment with creativity and academics in mind.

Caring, Certified Staff

Who your child spends the day with matters. All of our staff members are not only trained and certified to provide a warm and educational environment, they love kids. For them, this is more than just a job.

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Imagine the Possibilities

Enrolling Infants – Age 12

Where Creativity and Learning Thrive

Creative Kids Academy is dedicated to ensuring the best educational and child care practices. Each of our centers is committed to the social, physical, intellectual, creative, and emotional development of your child in a safe, clean, and welcoming space. READ MORE

Why Choose CKA?

Exceptional Educational and Enrichment Programming

Our centers meet the highest state and national standards. Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) concepts are woven into daily activities, ensuring a rich and engaging learning experience for all age groups. And, we incorporate daily outdoor playtime and learning in our outdoor classrooms for physical exercise, fresh air, and social interaction. READ MORE

Health, Safety, and Reliability

From secure facilities to caring staff, you can count on us to prioritize your child’s well-being every day. We consistently invest in our facilities to ensure they are clean, safe, and secure at all times. READ MORE

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Strong Family Partnerships

We know that a strong partnership between families and educators lays the foundation for a child’s success. Families are essential members of our learning community and we work closely with you to support your child’s growth every step of the way. READ MORE

Award-Winning Workplace

CKA has been consistently recognized as a Top 200 Workplace in Minnesota and a National Top Workplace in the Education Industry—based entirely on feedback from our employees. We invest in our team because we know that happy, supported teachers create happy, thriving children. READ MORE

Star Trib Top workplace 2025 USA Today Top Workplace 2025

We accept Childcare Assistance and Early Learning Scholarships. Credit cards accepted.

Congratulations, Brandy!

We are proud to share that our Executive Director, Brandy, has been selected as a board member for the MCCA (Minnesota Child Care Association)! Brandy has been with Creative Kids Academy for over 25 years since 1998, and during her career with CKA, she has worn many...

At-Home Learning Activities

Jul, 2025

Whether it's a cozy weekend at home or a quiet evening after school, your child’s natural curiosity doesn’t stop when they leave the classroom. At Creative Kids Academy, we believe that learning...

Cliff O.

Our daughter has been attending CKA for a little over a year now, and we've been very happy with the care she's received. The staff all seem to be wonderful people who genuinely care about the kiddos. We appreciate the open and honest communication, and have no...

Leah W.

We have had our kids going to Creative Kids Elk River for nearly 3 years and grown from the infant room and toddler room up through pre-school and school age. The kids LOVE going to daycare every day, and we trust the staff immensely. Our kids experience regular...

Amy M.

We love this place since day one! We trust the care they provide our little one and are beyond thankful for the overall experience and comfort. The staff goes above and beyond in the care, communication, skills, and safety. We also love the relationship we have with...

Shelly W.

This is a place where we as a family and our child absolutely loves daycare. The second we walk in she is giving all the teachers hugs before we can even get to her classroom. Definitely recommend and super happy! Molly has some of the best staffing for the kids and...

Pamela S.

100% recommended. My children have been enrolled from infants through Pre-school and it’s been a great journey. The teachers are super kind, dedicated, and they really care about them and their development. My children are immerse in a safe and happy environment that...

Kassandra H.

My child has attended this center for almost a year now and we absolutely love it. Big shout out to the toddler teachers who are extremely amazing. It's rare for me to feel comfortable leaving my child and knowing they are well cared for and safe. I like that we have...

Lule T.

My son started at CKA in the infant room, and the two teachers there were absolutely amazing. They always kept me updated, were honest, and maintained excellent communication. Since he was little, it was tough for him to adjust, but they were always so understanding...

Rena J.

We are so pleased with the care and attention. Our daughter has received at CKA Orono. The teachers and staff are always welcoming and pay attention to her little quirks and personality as she develops. They constantly foster and nurture her to grow. They are always...

Mollie P.

This is by far the best daycare my kids have been to. We have moved a few times so we have experienced different centers over the past 4 years. All of the teachers are amazing. They help both of my kids feel comfortable starting their day at school and they always...

Kara H.

Creative Kids Academy is an AMAZING place filled with incredible staff. Ms Amber, the director, is a profound leader that has built a crew of thoughtful, loving, and talented staff and teachers. Children learn so much every day, and all of the daily activities are...