Apple Valley, MN

Trusted Child Care & Preschool in Apple Valley, MN

A smaller, close-knit center near Pilot Knob and 140th where teachers know every child by name. Infant through pre-K care with music, science, and dance enrichment included at no extra cost.

Preschoolers exploring a world map at Creative Kids Academy Apple Valley
Address
14185 Essex Ave
Apple Valley, MN 55124
Hours
Monday–Friday
6:30 AM–5:30 PM
Leadership Team
Samantha L. (Area Director)
Mindy F. (Director)
Rob S. (Asst. Director)

Why Apple Valley Families Choose Us

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Feels Like Home

A close-knit community where children are known, loved, and celebrated every day.

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Staff Who Go Above & Beyond

Exceptional teachers and leaders who care deeply, build lasting relationships, and make every family feel supported.

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Room to Run, Explore & Imagine

One of our largest outdoor play spaces gives children endless opportunities to play, discover, and grow.

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A Place Kids Love to Be

A positive, encouraging environment where friendships grow, confidence blossoms, and every day is filled with joy.

Programs at Our Apple Valley Center

Full-time and part-time care for every stage, with a research-based curriculum and enrichment woven into each day.

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Infant Program

6 Weeks – 16 Months

Nurturing care, tummy time, and sensory play in a calm, loving room.

Explore Infant Care
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Emerging Toddler

12 – 24 Months

First friendships and big discoveries for busy new walkers.

Explore Emerging Toddlers
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Toddler Program

16 – 33 Months

Hands-on learning, language growth, and plenty of outdoor play.

Explore Toddlers
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Preschool & Pre-K

33 Months – 5 Years

Kindergarten readiness through play-based, teacher-guided learning.

Explore Preschool
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Summer Program

All Age Groups

Field trips, water days, and themed weeks all summer long.

Explore Summer
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Enrichment Programs

Included For All Ages

Dance, music, science, and performing arts led by specialty teachers.

Explore Enrichment

Everyday Moments at Apple Valley

Preschooler flashing peace signs after messy outdoor play at Apple Valley
Toddlers playing together at the water table
Preschooler painting with watercolors
Children gathered for a hands-on science activity
Smiling infant enjoying outdoor time on the playground at Creative Kids Academy Apple Valley
Toddler planting seeds during an outdoor garden project
Apple Valley firefighters visiting the children
Teacher and toddler measuring rice together during a sensory activity

Take a Peek Inside

Quality & Recognition

NAEYC accredited and Parent Aware rated child care
Top Workplaces USA Multi-Year Winner
Star Tribune Top 200 Workplace 2026
Apple Valley Parents Choice Award 2024

What Apple Valley Families Are Saying

Our children's creativity and imagination has flourished at Creative Kids Academy! They provide a home away from home atmosphere with the smaller center size but still have the convenient hours that working parents need. My children know almost all of the teachers who work here which make it more comfortable when transitioning to the next developmental level of care. They use the ProCare App which I value a lot. They have either yoga or jazzercise every day in addition to outside time which my kids love!

— Kristin L

Our oldest started as an infant at CKA and is now in the preschool room and our youngest is in the toddler room! We’ve had nothing but EXCELLENT care, parent/teacher conversations, and experiences at CKA. Their programs are so fun and the teachers are the BEST you’ll find! Our kids are thriving and we couldn’t love CKA anymore than we do!!

— Deven R

Our kids love CKA Apple Valley! The teachers are amazing! Our daughter gets in the car at pickup time and immediately starts telling us about what she learned or did that day with so much enthusiasm. Both kids get a well-rounded education with plenty of mental stimulation, socialization, physical activity, and creative projects. We couldn’t be happier with Creative Kids!

— Sarah J

My son (2) has been a student of CKA for a little over a month now, and I and my husband are extremely happy we choose to enroll him. All the staff are extremely friendly and super understanding of your child's needs and yours if your new to the daycare scene. We've had a terrible past experience with another child care provider and Creative Kids seemed to good to be true when we toured, well they are not and we choose to enroll him on the spot and we are so happy we decided to. My little boy has a family & friends away from home now.

— Cristina D

My daughter loves her teachers at CKA! She started just after she turned one, and just after the COVID procedures we're out in place. I was nervous about sending her to a new school and not being able to see her in a new setting. But, the staff made us feel welcome and they do their best to maintain a sense of community despite all distance. We are really happy with our choice!

— Holly B

Creative Kids Academy Apple Valley FAQs

Are meals and snacks included?
Yes! Tuition includes a nutritious breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snack each day. Our menus are designed to support healthy growth and can accommodate allergies and dietary needs whenever possible. Visit our Nutrition page to view a sample menu and learn more about our meal program.
Do you offer part-time schedules?
Yes! We offer a variety of full-time and part-time scheduling options based on your family’s needs and classroom availability. Contact our Apple Valley team to discuss current availability and find a schedule that’s the best fit for your family.
Is enrichment really included in tuition?
Yes! Dancercise, Growing With Music, our Science Program, and Graceful Monsters performing arts are all included in your tuition at no additional cost.
Do you offer or accept financial assistance for child care?
Yes! We accept Child Care Assistance (CCAP) and Early Learning Scholarships for eligible families, and some locations offer special enrollment promotions. Visit our Affording Child Care page to explore your options, or reach out to us with any questions, we're happy to help you find the best fit for your family.
What communities does your Apple Valley daycare serve?
While many of our families live in Apple Valley, we proudly welcome families from Eagan, Rosemount, Burnsville, Lakeville, Farmington, and other nearby south metro communities. Our convenient location near Pilot Knob Road and 140th Street makes drop-off and pick-up an easy choice for families throughout the south metro.
How do I schedule a tour?
Request a tour online, call 952-423-5566, or email applevalley@ckakids.com. We’d love to show you around and introduce you to our teachers. You can also follow our center on Facebook to see daily classroom fun.

Come See Apple Valley for Yourself

Meet our teachers, peek into the classrooms, and see why families call us a second home.

Schedule a Tour