Elk River, MN

Trusted Child Care & Preschool in Elk River, MN

Confidence for parents. A second home for children. At Creative Kids Academy Elk River, caring 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 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

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.

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

Programs at Our Elk River 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

Included For All Ages

Dance, 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.

Creative Kids Academy Elk River 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 Elk River 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, our Science Program, Karate Kids, and Graceful Monsters 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 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.
How do I schedule a tour?
Request a tour online, call 763-441-5550, or email elkriver@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.

Ready to see it for yourself?

Pick a tour time that works for you — it takes about a minute, and we’ll confirm within one business day.

Request a Tour

Prefer to talk first? Call 763-441-5550 or email elkriver@ckakids.com.