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.
6:30 AM–5:30 PM
Infant through Pre-K
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

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
Nurturing care, tummy time, and sensory play in a calm, loving room.
Explore Infant CareEmerging Toddler
First friendships and big discoveries for busy new walkers.
Explore Emerging ToddlersToddler Program
Hands-on learning, language growth, and plenty of outdoor play.
Explore ToddlersPreschool & Pre-K
Kindergarten readiness through play-based, teacher-guided learning.
Explore PreschoolSummer Program
Field trips, water days, and themed weeks all summer long.
Explore SummerEnrichment Programs
Dance, science, karate, Spanish, and performing arts led by specialty teachers.
Explore EnrichmentWhat Orono Families Are Saying
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.
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!
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.
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!
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.
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.
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?
Do you offer part-time schedules?
Do enrichment programs cost extra?
Do you offer or accept financial assistance for child care?
What communities does your Orono daycare serve?
What family events do you offer throughout the year?
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.









