Elk River, MN

Trusted Daycare & Preschool in Elk River, MN

Confidence for parents. A second home for children. At Creative Kids Academy Elk River, caring daycare and preschool teachers, engaging learning experiences, and trusted relationships help children grow with confidence while giving families something just as important: complete peace of mind.

A teacher and preschooler laughing together on a soapy slip-n-slide at Creative Kids Academy Elk River
Hours
Monday–Friday
6:30 AM–5:30 PM
Ages Served
6 weeks – 12 years
Infant through school age
Leadership Team
Amber R. (Area Director)
Cassie C. (Director)
Amy J. (Asst. Director)

Why Elk River Families Choose Us

Confidence From Day One

Starting child care can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to. Families often tell us the moment they walked through our doors, they felt welcomed, supported, and confident they had found the right place for their child.

Learning You Can See

From sensory play and enrichment activities to early literacy, science, and hands-on exploration, children are constantly learning in ways families notice every day, whether it’s singing new songs, recognizing letters, or proudly sharing what they’ve discovered.

Partners Every Step of the Way

Great child care starts with great communication. Through daily updates, honest conversations, and genuine partnerships, we help families stay connected, ask questions, and feel confident about their child’s care every step of the way.

Growing Up Together

Many children begin with us as infants and stay through preschool and school age. Along the way, our teachers become trusted partners who celebrate milestones, support transitions, and build relationships that grow right alongside your family.

Recognized for Excellence

NAEYC accredited early learning programParent Aware four-star rated program, highest possible rating Top Workplaces USA Multi-Year Winner Star Tribune Top 200 Workplace 2026 Parents Choice Award 2024

Everyday Moments at CKA Elk River

An infant exploring a board book during quiet playtime at Creative Kids Academy Elk River
Infants playing together in a bubble-filled pool on a sunny day at Creative Kids Academy Elk River
A toddler enjoying a shaved ice treat outdoors at Creative Kids Academy Elk River
A mom and her son celebrating together at our Muffins with Mom event at Creative Kids Academy Elk River
A preschooler proudly showing off her hands after a colorful painting activity at Creative Kids Academy Elk River
A teacher dressed as Pete the Cat reading to preschoolers during story time at Creative Kids Academy Elk River
Preschoolers building a large geodesic dome together during outdoor STEM play at Creative Kids Academy Elk River
Preschoolers wearing handmade patriotic hats and holding books during a Fourth of July classroom activity at Creative Kids Academy Elk River

See more moments on Facebook

Take a Peek Inside

Come See Elk River for Yourself

Meet our teachers, peek into the classrooms, and see why families call us a second home. Choose from our regular tour times below, or request another day or time that works for you.

Request a Tour

Tours take about 20 minutes. Choose a few times that work for your family, and we’ll confirm your tour within one business day — usually the same day.

Prefer to talk with us directly?  •  763-441-5550  •  elkriver@ckakids.com

Programs at Our Elk River Child Care Center

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

Infant Program

6 Weeks – 16 Months

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

Explore Infant Care

Emerging Toddler Program

12 – 24 Months

A bridge between infancy and toddlerhood, with individualized support for new walkers, talkers, and explorers building confidence and independence.

Explore Emerging Toddler

Toddler Program

16 – 33 Months

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

Explore Toddlers

Preschool & Pre-K

33 Months – 5 Years

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

Explore Preschool

School Age

Kindergarten – 12 Years

Before and after school care filled with active play, hands-on learning, and new friendships.

Explore School Age

Summer Program

All Age Groups

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

Explore Summer

Enrichment Programs

Preschool & Pre-K

Yoga, science, karate, and performing arts led by specialty teachers.

Explore Enrichment
Included enrichment at Elk River:

What Elk River Families Are Saying

‹

We have had our kids at Creative Kids Elk River for nearly 3 years, growing from the infant room up through preschool and school age. The kids LOVE going every day, and we trust the staff immensely. Regular enrichment keeps learning fun — science days, water days, yoga and dancercise. Our kids even role play at home pretending to be their teachers.

— Leah W.

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 the staff and transparent conversation knowing they are looking out for the best interest of our child. Highly recommend their care!

— Amy M.

Creative Kids Academy has been our home away from home for 4+ years! The teachers and staff have laid a solid foundation for my daughter — social, emotional, and educational — and have been an integral part of shaping who she is today. Almost daily she comes home singing a new song or telling me about something new she learned.

— Tess A.

My 2 children have been attending CKA since they were infants. We have had nothing but a positive experience! The teachers truly and deeply care for the kids and are excited to see them every morning. The classrooms are always decorated with photos and artwork. They have fun physical and sensory activities planned often — dancing, science class, sensory tables. I am amazed at how smart my toddler is — singing songs, ABCs, counting, writing and identifying letters in his name. We are grateful for their patience and how much they love our kiddos!

— Courtney K.

Where do I even start? Finding care for your baby, especially your first, can be nerve-racking, but my husband and I have always felt welcomed, comfortable, and confident here. We’ve built a wonderful connection with the staff and truly trust that they care deeply for our child. The staff consistently go above and beyond in communication, care, and safety. As first time parents and now experienced (2nd child) we couldn’t ask for a better environment for our little ones. If you’re currently searching for a place that will love and care for your child as much as you do, this is it.

— Amy H.

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 reservations about entrusting them with the care of our daughter. We’re always amazed with what she’s learning, even at a very young age!

— Cliff O.
›

Creative Kids Academy Elk River FAQs

How much does child care cost at CKA Elk River?

Tuition varies by your child’s age and the schedule you need. For current rates, call 763-441-5550, email us, or request a tour, and we’ll walk you through pricing for your family.

Families may also qualify for Child Care Assistance (CCAP), Early Learning Scholarships, or current enrollment promotions. Visit our Affording Child Care page to learn more.

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 Elk River team to discuss current availability and find a schedule that’s the best fit for your family.
Do enrichment programs cost extra?
No! CKA sponsors all enrichment programs, so there is no additional fee to participate. At CKA Elk River, children in preschool and up enjoy Kids Yoga, our Science Program, Karate Kids, and Graceful Monsters.
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. We also offer a sibling discount and an employee discount. 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 Elk River daycare serve?
While many of our families live in Elk River, we proudly welcome families from Otsego, Zimmerman, Big Lake, Ramsey, and Rogers. Conveniently located near Highway 10 and Highway 169, our center is easy to reach for families throughout the northwest metro.
Get in Touch

Ready to Learn More About CKA Elk River?

Whether you’re ready to visit or just starting to look, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to schedule a tour or learn about openings, tuition, schedules, or anything else on your mind.

Teacher leading circle time with preschoolers at Creative Kids Academy Elk River
Find a LocationSchedule a TourContact Us