Orono, MN

Trusted Daycare & Preschool in Orono, MN

Where history, community, and childhood come together. Located in the historic Old Hill School, Creative Kids Academy Orono is a welcoming daycare and preschool where children grow, families belong, and traditions become memories. Through caring teachers, engaging learning experiences, and meaningful relationships, we help children build confidence while making every family feel at home.

Children playing on the outdoor playground slides at Creative Kids Academy Orono
Hours
Monday–Friday
6:30 AM–5:30 PM
Ages Served
6 weeks to 5 years
Infant through Pre-K
Leadership Team
Samantha L. (Area Director)
Amber M. (Director)
Sara A. (Asst. Director)

Why Orono Families Choose Us

A Community That Feels Like Home

Families often tell us what makes Orono special isn’t just our programs—it’s the welcoming atmosphere, lasting friendships, and sense of belonging they find here.

Learning That Builds Confidence

Our engaging curriculum encourages curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving while preparing children for kindergarten and beyond.

More Than a School

From family nights and seasonal celebrations to community traditions children look forward to each year, we create experiences that bring families together.

Relationships That Last

From first-day drop-offs to Pre-K graduation, our teachers build meaningful relationships that help children feel known, supported, and excited to learn every day.

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 BusinessRate Ranked #1 June 2026 Award Winner - Creative Kids Academy Orono

Everyday Moments at CKA Orono

An infant crawling and reaching for a toy at Creative Kids Academy Orono
A toddler painting a pumpkin during an art activity at Creative Kids Academy Orono
Children playing outdoors with bubbles at Creative Kids Academy Orono
A preschooler exploring dirt with a magnifying glass during a science activity at Creative Kids Academy Orono
Two preschoolers reading books inside a rocket ship playhouse at Creative Kids Academy Orono
A preschooler showing off paint-covered hands during an art project at Creative Kids Academy Orono
A preschooler tie-dyeing outdoors at Creative Kids Academy Orono
Three children bundled up in beanies enjoying outdoor play at Creative Kids Academy Orono

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Take a Peek Inside

Come See Orono 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?  •  952-473-1225  •  orono@ckakids.com

Programs at Our Orono 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

12 – 24 Months

First friendships and big discoveries for busy new walkers.

Explore Emerging Toddlers

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

Summer Program

All Age Groups

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

Explore Summer

Enrichment Programs

Toddler – Pre-K

Dance, science, karate, Spanish, and performing arts led by specialty teachers.

Explore Enrichment
Included enrichment at Orono:

What Orono Families Are Saying

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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 and they always have a great time. It's a safe, clean and fun learning environment.

— Mollie P.
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Creative Kids Academy is an AMAZING place filled with incredible staff. Children learn so much every day, and all of the daily activities are well thought out to be age appropriate, engaging, and develop knowledge and skills. Lots of outdoor or gym time and art or sensory stations. Our kiddo LOVES going to daycare!

— Kara H.
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We are newer to CKA and could not recommend them enough. Our daughter is currently enrolled in their infant program at the Orono location. All of the teachers and staff are amazing, and the center is very warm and inviting. It gives me such peace of mind knowing she is getting great care while we are at work.

— Jessica R.
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We had an excellent experience with Creative Kids Academy Orono. The teachers, directors, and support staff are incredibly dedicated and attentive, always making sure our kids' needs were met with care and patience. There is a wonderful sense of community here where everyone is welcomed. The center prioritizes a strong educational foundation for the kids, with various extra programs and activities that are fun and enriching. Highly recommend this center!

— Stacy B.
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Every day our preschooler comes home excited to tell us what she learned — whether it's a new song, a science discovery, or a story about a friend. The balance of play, learning, and social-emotional development is exactly what we hoped for. Communication with families is exceptional. We always feel informed, supported, and included. It's clear that Amber and Sarah see parents as partners, not bystanders. Every teacher in the school knows our daughter by name, greets her, and knows who every parent is. Most importantly, our daughter feels safe and confident here. We are so grateful to be part of this community.

— Danielle B.
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We couldn't be happier with our experience at CKA Orono. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and genuinely loving toward the kids, which makes such a difference. It's clear they truly care — not just about the children, but about the entire family. They consistently go above and beyond to make us feel comfortable and at ease, which is invaluable when trusting someone with your child. We always feel informed and connected thanks to their daily updates through the app, and the monthly newsletters are a thoughtful touch that keeps us in the loop on activities and upcoming events. It's such a relief knowing our child is in a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment.

— Hannah F.
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Creative Kids Academy Orono FAQs

How much does child care cost at CKA Orono?

Tuition varies by your child’s age and the schedule you need. For current rates, call 952-473-1225, 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 Orono 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 Orono, children from toddler through pre-K enjoy Dancercise, our Science Program, Karate Kids, Spanish, 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 Orono daycare serve?
While many of our families live in Orono, we proudly welcome families from Wayzata, Long Lake, Navarre, Watertown, Maple Plain, Medina, Spring Park, Mound, Excelsior, and other nearby Lake Minnetonka communities.
What family events do you offer throughout the year?
Families enjoy a variety of traditions and events throughout the year, including family nights, seasonal celebrations, graduation, Trunk or Treat, community helper visits, and summer activities that bring our community together.
Get in Touch

Ready to Learn More About CKA Orono?

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.

Preschool friends on the couch showing off postcards they received at Creative Kids Academy Orono
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