Frequently Asked Questions About Guiding Light Early Learning Center
Choosing childcare comes with a lot of questions, and we want families to feel comfortable asking them.
Whether you’re wondering about age requirements, CCAP, tuition, faith-based learning, daily routines or enrollment, we want it to be easy to find the information you need.
If you don’t see your question here, please reach out.
We’re always happy to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Guiding Light Early Learning Center a new childcare center?
Yes. Guiding Light Early Learning Center is a new, independently governed nonprofit childcare organization serving Hutchinson and the surrounding communities.
Guiding Light has its own leadership, governing board and day-to-day operations, with a focus on providing children with a safe, welcoming and Christ-centered place to learn, play and grow.
Is Guiding Light part of Peace Lutheran Church?
Guiding Light Early Learning Center is a separate organization from Peace Lutheran Church.
We lease our childcare space from Peace Lutheran and value the positive relationship we have with the church, including weekly Chapel time. Guiding Light has its own leadership, governing board and day-to-day operations.
Is Guiding Light the same childcare center that previously operated in this location?
No. Guiding Light Early Learning Center is a new and independently operated childcare organization.
We understand why there may be some confusion because our center is located in a familiar childcare space. While another childcare center previously operated at this location, Guiding Light has its own leadership, board and approach to care.
We encourage families to come visit, meet our team and get to know Guiding Light for who we are today.
What ages does Guiding Light Early Learning Center serve?
Guiding Light offers childcare beginning at 16 months through Kindergarten, along with before-and-after school care and summer care for school-aged children.
Because classroom availability can change, we encourage families to contact us about their child’s age and desired start date.
What are Guiding Light’s hours?
Guiding Light is open Monday through Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Our full-day hours are designed to give families a dependable childcare option that works with busy schedules.
Does Guiding Light accept CCAP?
Yes. Guiding Light Early Learning Center is an approved Minnesota Child Care Assistance Program provider.
If your family currently receives CCAP or is in the process of applying, we would be happy to answer questions about using childcare assistance at Guiding Light.
Does my child need to be potty trained before starting preschool?
No. Children do not need to be fully potty trained before starting preschool at Guiding Light.
Every child develops at their own pace, and our team works with families to support children as they build independence and learn new skills.
What does learning look like at Guiding Light?
Learning happens throughout the day through hands-on activities, art, play, music, movement and a year-round curriculum.
Guiding Light also places an emphasis on Kindergarten readiness, helping children develop important skills while still giving them plenty of time to explore, create, build friendships and have fun.
How is music incorporated into the program?
Music is an important part of everyday learning at Guiding Light.
Center Director Kaylee Entinger has a degree in Music Education and graduate studies in Music Therapy. Singing, rhythm, movement and other musical experiences are incorporated throughout the day to support communication, creativity, coordination and early learning.
How is faith incorporated into the day?
Guiding Light is a Christ-centered childcare program, and faith is naturally woven into our daily routines.
Children have opportunities to learn about Jesus through Bible stories, prayer, worship songs, Chapel time and everyday lessons about kindness, compassion and caring for others.
Our goal is to help children grow academically, socially and spiritually.
How do parents stay connected during the day?
Guiding Light uses Procare to help families stay connected to what is happening at the center.
Parents can receive updates that may include meals, activities, schedules, photos and other moments from their child’s day.
Are meals included?
Yes. Meals are included as part of childcare at Guiding Light.
If your child has allergies, dietary needs or other considerations, please talk with Kaylee so we can discuss your family’s needs.
Is Guiding Light’s building secure?
Yes. Guiding Light operates in a secure facility designed with young children in mind.
Parent access to the building is controlled through a secure entry system, helping us provide a safe and welcoming environment for the children in our care.
What programs does Guiding Light offer?
Guiding Light offers full-day childcare for children beginning at 16 months through Kindergarten, along with before-and-after school care and summer care for school-aged children.
Each program is designed to give children a safe, nurturing environment with opportunities to learn, play, build relationships and grow in their faith.
How do I schedule a tour?
We would love to show you around.
Contact Guiding Light to schedule a time that works for your family. During your tour, you’ll have an opportunity to see the classrooms, learn more about daily routines and curriculum, meet our team and ask any questions you have about enrollment.
How do I enroll my child at Guiding Light?
The first step is to contact us about your child’s age, desired start date and the type of care you need.
We’ll answer your questions, talk through current availability and invite you to tour the center. If Guiding Light feels like the right fit for your family, Kaylee will walk you through the enrollment paperwork and next steps.
What makes Guiding Light different?
Guiding Light combines center-based care, hands-on learning, music, Kindergarten readiness and a Christ-centered environment.
Families also benefit from full-day hours, communication through Procare, a secure facility and a team that works closely with children and families throughout the day.
Most importantly, we want Guiding Light to be a place where children feel known, cared for and excited to come each day.
Have More Questions?
We know every family’s childcare needs are a little different.
If you have questions about tuition, CCAP, programs, availability or what your child’s day would look like, we’d be happy to talk with you.
Growing hearts. Guiding faith. Sharing His light.
