Our Story & Philosophy - Kinderberry Hill

A Little History—and a Lot of Heart

For more than 35 years, Kinderberry Hill has been dedicated to nurturing the potential of young children. Our story began in 1990, when the Dunkley family, leaders in early childhood education, acquired Kinderberry Hill with a vision to create something truly special: a place where children feel safe, loved, and inspired to learn. From the start, Kinderberry Hill was unlike any other “daycare.” With thoughtfully designed environments, a strong focus on the whole child, and a deep commitment to families, we quickly became a trusted name in early education. Over the years, we’ve expanded our reach while staying true to what matters most–meaningful connections, joyful learning, and a strong foundation for every child.

Our Mission at Kinderberry Hill

Today at Kinderberry Hill, we are driven by a deep inner passion and an unwavering commitment to creating exceptional early childhood experiences. From the very beginning, our goal has been to create a space where children feel good about themselves and find joy in learning. That is our mission and purpose. Our schools are warm, welcoming spaces where curiosity is encouraged, relationships thrive, and each child is known and celebrated. Our educators are experienced, passionate, and deeply committed to helping children grow socially, emotionally, and academically. Every detail—from our curriculum to our classrooms to our school community celebrations—is intentionally designed. This thoughtful approach allows us to provide not just care, but exceptional care — the kind families feel and remember long after their child leaves our program.

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Our History

2020

Kinderberry Hill celebrates 30 years of caring for Twin Cities’ families.
Wonder Lab enrichment classes are introduced. These STEAM and Spanish classes spark curiosity and inspire exploration, giving children hands-on opportunities to engage with these subjects.
Conscious Discipline (copyright symbol) is introduced to leadership teams and classroom teachers. This evidence-based approach to behavior equips children, families, and educators with practical skills to create safe, connected, and supportive environments for young learners.
Schools become Breastfeeding Friendly Workplaces through the State of Minnesota.

2010

Kinderberry Hill’s outdoor spaces proudly earn Nature Explore outdoor classroom certifications, providing children with enriching environments for learning and growth.
An exciting new chapter and journey into the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education begins.
2008 – Kinderberry Hill opens a sixth location in Eden Prairie to care for Southwest metro children. This beautiful facility features a sun-filled atrium, large muscle space, state-of-the-art security, and a unique, nature-inspired outdoor climbing structure.
2005 – A state-of-the-art building opens in Woodbury, combining the 3M Campus with other east metro area families seeking a top quality child care program.

2000

The Minneapolis location opens. This unique school, situated in a high-rise building in the heart of downtown, caters to downtown working professionals. Its many unique features include convenient Skyway access and a one-of-a-kind root-top terrace playground.
NAEYC accreditation is achieved. The process includes a detailed review of teaching practices, safety, curriculum, and family engagement to ensure quality care and learning for young children. All schools meet the highest standards for early childhood education.
All schools receive 5 star ratings under Minnesota’s official quality rating system- Parent Aware. Parent Aware rates childcare and early education programs.

1990

Local family, William and Susan Dunkley, purchase the Roseville and Edina Kinderberry Hill locations. The Dunkleys, owners of New Horizon Academy since 1971 and very active in early education legislated the quality evident in Kinderberry Hill’s programs.