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Our service offerings are rooted in data and real-world insights.

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Wilder Research provides the tools and the insights you need to make well-grounded, effective decisions.

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Wilder walks alongside families throughout their journey—providing care, connection, and support along the way.

Advocating for systemic equity and opportunities for all Minnesotans.

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Together, we create pathways to well-being, opportunity, and a stronger community for all.

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Wilder has worked alongside communities to break down barriers and create pathways to lasting change.

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Childcare & Preschool

Childcare & Preschool

Nurturing bright beginnings with trusted care, joyful learning, and whole-family support for children ages 16 months to 5 years.

Now enrolling—limited spots available.

An Exceptional Start to Lifelong Learning

At Wilder Child Development Center, children grow in classrooms filled with creativity, care, and curiosity. Our nationally recognized program supports early learning and school readiness, while also providing families with the tools and support they need to thrive.

Cubs & Bears

Ages

16 - 33 months old

Teacher to Child Ratio

Cubs Classroom 2:8

Bears Classroom 2:12

Toddlers learn key skills like:

  • Putting toys away.
  • Verbalizing the need to use the bathroom.
  • Matching familiar objects.
  • Recognizing body parts.
  • Going up and down stairs.
  • Potty training.
Penguins

Ages

2.5 - 3.5 years old

Child to Teacher Ratio

2:18

Children build important skills like:

  • Following classroom rules and routines.
  • Expressing themselves using feeling words.
  • Recognizing individual names.
  • Performing many self-care tasks independently.
  • Counting to 20 in English.
Butterflies

Ages

3 - 4 years old

Child to Teacher Ratio

2:20

Partnerships with Saint Paul Public Schools and Minnesota Reading Corps help children build early literacy skills and prepare for kindergarten.

Children build on skills like:

  • Sitting, listening and participating during large group activities.
  • Using words to resolve conflict.
  • Making phonic sounds for the letters of the alphabet.
  • Using body coordination to move easily.
  • Using words and senses to observe and explore.
  • Recognizing and naming all letters of the alphabet.
Dolphins

Ages

4 - 5 years old

Child to Teacher Ratio

2:20

Through partnerships with Saint Paul Public Schools and Minnesota Reading Corps, children strengthen early literacy skills and prepare for kindergarten. 

Children focus on skills like:

  • Following directions.
  • Recognizing and naming most letters of the alphabet.
  • Writing first names and recognizing last names.
  • Recognizing and producing rhyming sounds.
  • Mastery of self-help skills.
  • Beginning to identify different characteristics of people.

Wilder
Child Development Center

Get Directions
  • 911 Lafond Ave, St. Paul, MN 55104
  • 651-280-2600
CONTACT US TODAY

Where Children Grow and Families Thrive

Looking for quality child care? Schedule a tour today and see why families choose Wilder.

Nationally Recognized Early Education Program
  • NAEYC accredited.
  • 4-Star rating from Minnesota’s Parent Aware.
  • Social and emotional learning using The Incredible Years® curriculum.
  • Focused on getting kids ready for kindergarten.
  • Large classrooms with space for group time and one-on-one learning.
  • Two secure outdoor playgrounds, a nature area, and an indoor gym.
  • Fresh and healthy breakfast, lunch, and snacks made on site.
Community Partnerships and Resources
  • Head Start co-location site for families who qualify.
  • Saint Paul Public Schools partnership for early childhood screening, individualized education plan services, and assistance enrolling in kindergarten.
  • Minnesota Reading Corps curriculum helps build math and early literacy skills.
  • Innovative music learning program with MacPhail Center for Music.
Whole Family Involvement and Support
  • Parent-teacher conferences to reinforce lessons and strengthen bonds between children and families.
  • Parent education classes to develop positive parenting strategies.
  • Parent advisory group to seek feedback about the center, curriculum, and activities.
  • Family fun nights to bring together children, families, and staff.
  • On-site Family Services Coordinator to connect families with community services, resources, and supports.

Ready to Get Started?

Wilder accepts applications throughout the year. Request a tour and start your enrollment process today.

Tuition & Financial Assistance

Quality early education is within reach. Affordable tuition and financial assistance are available to support your family.

Learn More
COMMUNITY VOICES

Real Stories from Our Families

Families reflect on how Wilder inspires confidence, curiosity, and growth in their children.

Scoped Full-Width Stories Carousel
Story 1

We’re All in This Together: JoAnna’s Story of Resilience and Support

 Story 2

Wilder Child Development Center Joins "Day Without Child Care" to Advocate for Funding and Accessibility

 Story 3

Supporting Families Beyond the Classroom
View All Stories
here for you every step of the way

Beyond Early Childhood Education

Discover the full scope of Wilder’s commitment to your family’s success.

Mental Health Services

Personalized therapy that supports emotional wellness across all ages and life stages.

Meals on Wheels

Weekday meal pickup for those with limited mobility who have trouble cooking or getting food.

Housing Assistance

Connecting individuals and families with safe, affordable housing and rent support.
Wilder Research

Smart Foundations for Lifelong Learning

Explore how our curriculum, grounded in research, supports every stage of early growth.

View Research
Research Home

Wilder
451 Lexington Parkway N
St. Paul, MN 55104

651-280-2000

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