FAQs
Frequently asked
questions
Find clear, helpful answers to the most common questions parents ask about our childcare programs, safety practices, daily routines, and enrollment process here at our Bloomington, MN daycare
Common Questions
What is the mission of Bright Stars Learning Center Inc.?
The center’s mission is to provide a safe, inclusive, and engaging early learning environment that supports children’s growth through play-based learning, positive guidance, and family partnerships.
When was the program initially licensed, and what major accreditations has it achieved?
The program was initially licensed as a Child Care Center on June 10, 2013. It achieved NAEYC accreditation on May 25, 2022, and earned the highest Parent Aware rating on August 16, 2024.
What are the center's hours of operation?
Bright Stars Learning Center is open year-round, Monday through Friday, from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
What age groups does the center serve?
The program serves infants (birth to 12 months), toddlers (12 to 36 months), preschool-aged children (3 to 5 years), and school-age children (Kindergarten and older).
What are the conditions that require a child to be kept home due to illness?
Children must remain home if they have a fever of 100.4°F or higher, vomiting or diarrhea, contagious conditions, or severe symptoms such as uncontrolled coughing or difficulty breathing.
What is the center's safe sleep policy for infants?
Infants are always placed on their backs to sleep in individual cribs that are free of soft items, blankets, pillows, bumpers, or toys.
How does the center approach guidance and discipline?
The center focuses on positive behavior support, developmentally appropriate practices, and teaching self-regulation skills, rather than using punishment.
What specific discipline practices are prohibited at the center?
Prohibited practices include corporal punishment, physical restraint (unless to prevent immediate harm), verbal abuse, forced isolation, withholding food or rest, and punishment related to toileting accidents.
Which curriculum is used for children from infancy through preschool?
The 123 Learn Curriculum is used as the primary curriculum for infants, toddlers, and preschool children.
What educational tool is used for school-age children?
MobyMax is used as a structured digital learning tool to support individualized academic growth, specifically focusing on reading and mathematics skill development.
How do staff communicate daily updates and attendance to parents?
The center uses HiMama for daily reports, photos, and activity updates, and SmartCare for daily attendance and time tracking.
When are formal Parent-Teacher conferences held?
Formal parent-teacher conferences are held twice a year, specifically in May and November.
What assessment tools are used to monitor children's developmental progress?
The DRDP (2015) and PS Comprehensive View are used for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, while MobyMax assessments are used for school-age children.
What is the weekly tuition rate for the Toddler program in 2025?
The weekly tuition rate for a toddler, effective January 6, 2025, is $582.12.
Does the center accept the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), and what happens if CCAP is delayed or denied?
Yes, the center accepts CCAP. However, if CCAP lapses, is delayed, or is denied, the parent or guardian is fully responsible for paying the tuition.
Can I schedule a conference outside of May or November?
Yes, you can schedule a conference outside of the formally scheduled times in May and November. The program allows for additional conferences to be scheduled as needed at the request of either the parents or the staff. Additionally, the center will inform you of your child’s progress as needed if any developmental or academic concerns arise outside of the regular conference schedule.