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705 Highway 55
Buffalo, MN 55313 - (763) 682-4253
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M-F
6:30am - 6:00pm - Ages: 6 weeks - 5 years
- Overview
- Programs
- Our Team
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About Lil’ Explorers, Buffalo Preschool
Lil’ Explorers Childcare Center is a preschool serving the Buffalo area of Minnesota. Established in 2003, Lil’ Explorers Childcare Center continues to provide a safe environment for children ages 6 weeks through Pre-K that is centered on exploration and development. With highly qualified teaching staff, Lil’ Explorers offers a preschool curriculum that helps children develop a love for learning.
Our expansive facilities offer plenty of room for your children to learn, grow, and develop, while our caring staff provides a nurturing and enriching atmosphere. Each facility features Infant Rooms, Toddler Rooms, Preschool Rooms, and dedicated Pre-Kindergarten Rooms, along with a large gross motor room inside each location.
We believe in a partnership where parents and caregivers work together with teachers to promote the best possible outcome for every child.
At Lil’ Explorers, we strive to provide the best preschool and daycare for Buffalo, MN families. Our extensive facilities and curriculum are designed to help children thrive in an enriching learning environment that is also safe and nurturing. It is the mission of our childcare staff to provide top-notch service for all families and provide an enjoyable and exciting time for all children in our care.
The Ascend Curriculum
We believe that every student is a unique individual who deserves to be treated with respect. The flexibility built into our Ascend Curriculum allows us to create individualized learning experiences for each child and our teachers focus on developing new skills in subjects such as Literacy, Baby Signs, Spanish, Art, Science & Sensory, and Technology every month. Activities can be modified to match the interests and current skill level of every child and we teach through play so our students treasure these first learning experiences and develop a lifelong love of learning.
Kind Child
We nurture friendships, cultivate positive character traits, and strengthen social skills through our Kind Child culture. Kind Child is an integral part of our Ascend Curriculum and we focus on social and emotional skills every month and the development of a new character trait such as Friendship, Empathy, and a Positive Self-Image every two months. The result is a positive and supportive preschool environment where every child feels welcome.
A Loving and Supportive Environment For Little Ones
The Lil’ Explorers Childcare team is passionate about providing a warm and loving environment where Buffalo families feel confident that their child is safe and nurtured. Our experienced staff members are CPR, and First Aid certified, so you can rest assured that your little one is in good hands.
Additionally, our Buffalo daycare and Buffalo preschool programs are designed to encourage holistic development in young children. Our teachers work hard to create a supportive environment where every child feels valued and special.
If you’re looking for a Buffalo daycare or Buffalo preschool that puts your child’s needs first, look no further than Lil’ Explorers Childcare Center!
Preparing Your Child For Kindergarten
The Lil’ Explorers curriculum is designed to get your child ready for kindergarten and beyond. The curriculum focuses on the whole child, with an emphasis on social-emotional, physical, and cognitive development.
Through hands-on activities, and skills-based learning, your child will develop the skills they need to succeed in school and in life. With a strong foundation in literacy, math, science, and social studies, your child will be well-prepared for kindergarten and beyond!
Growth & Development Partner For Buffalo, MN Families
Whether you are looking for Buffalo daycare or Buffalo preschool programs, Lil’ Explorers Childcare Center has something to offer your family. Contact us today to schedule a tour of our center or learn more about our program offerings!
Programs Offered
Our Team

Leanne Ost
School Director
My name is Leanne, and I am the School Director at Lil’ Explorers in Buffalo. Since joining the center in the fall of 2016, I’ve worn many different hats, from teacher, to assistant director, to director. I enjoy watching the children grow and reach their milestones, working with our amazingly talented staff, and building relationships with our families. I live in Waverly with my husband, Jamie, and am a proud mother of four and grandmother of two. Outside of work, I enjoy watching sports and spending time with my family and friends. I look forward to meeting you soon!

Paige Bruns
Assistant Director
I have been dedicated to childcare since 2014 and genuinely love coming to work every day. At home, I cherish spending time with my husband, Tyler, and our son, Royce, on our farm in Maple Lake. On weekends, you’ll often find me immersed in drawing or curled up with a good book. My passion for child development drives me to make a meaningful impact in our school, and I am thrilled to be part of Buffalo Lil’ Explorers. I can’t wait to connect with all the wonderful families and be part of this incredible community!

Elisa Grangroth
Teacher of the Year
I currently live in Howard Lake with my husband, Zach, and daughter, Violet. I have been working in childcare since 2016 and joined Lil Explorers in September 2022. I have a passion for teaching young minds, especially toddlers. I love making wonderful connections with families and setting kids up for success at such a young age. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and traveling.
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Lil' Explorers Childcare Center
Buffalo, MN
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