Grand Marais, Minnesota
Welcome to Step-Up Child Care —
where your little ones are already family.
A faith-centered, nurturing environment on 1st Avenue West where children grow in confidence, curiosity, and kindness — one step at a time.
About Us
A home away from home, built on faith and trust
Step-Up Child Care has been a quiet presence on 1st Avenue West in Grand Marais for many years — a place where parents leave with peace of mind and children arrive with open arms. We are a small, intimate childcare center rooted in the values of our community: faith, patience, and genuine care.
Our doors are open to families who want more than supervision — they want a warm, structured, and loving environment where their children can truly thrive. We keep our groups small so every child gets the attention they deserve, and where no one ever feels like just a number.
Our Approach
Guided by purpose, shaped by love
Faith-Centered Care
Our foundation is built on Christian values — kindness, honesty, and respect. We weave these principles naturally into every day, helping children develop a strong moral compass from the start.
Structured Routine
Children flourish with predictability. Our days follow a thoughtful rhythm of learning, play, rest, and nourishment — giving little ones the security they need to explore and grow with confidence.
Small Groups, Real Attention
We intentionally keep our ratios low. Your child is known by name, understood by temperament, and supported individually — not managed as part of a crowd.
School Readiness
Through play-based learning, early literacy, and social-emotional development, we prepare children not just to enter kindergarten — but to thrive in it.
Programs
Every stage, thoughtfully supported
We offer two programs designed to meet children where they are and gently guide them forward.
Toddler Program
A gentle, sensory-rich environment where the youngest learners explore, babble, crawl, and take their first steps — both physically and socially. Our caregivers provide one-on-one attention during feeding, napping, and play, creating a secure base for curiosity to bloom.
- Individual feeding and nap schedules
- Sensory and motor skill activities
- Language-rich environment
- Safe, padded play spaces
Preschool Program
For the curious, chatty, always-moving learner. Our preschool year is packed with structured play, early literacy, number concepts, and creative expression — all delivered through a lens of faith and character development that sets the tone for a lifetime of learning.
- Pre-reader and math foundations
- Art, music, and dramatic play
- Social skills and emotional growth
- Kindergarten readiness focus
"We drove past Step-Up Child Care on 1st Avenue and just knew it was the right fit. The moment we walked in, we felt welcome — like we were part of something real. Our daughter has blossomed here. She comes home singing songs, counting numbers, and telling us about her friends. As parents, we couldn't ask for more."
Get in Touch
We'd love to meet your family
Whether you're looking for full-time care or just want to learn more, give us a call or stop by. We're right here in the heart of Grand Marais, and our doors are always open for a tour.
Grand Marais, MN 55604
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