2017
An agreement is reached to add Close to Home, located in St. Paul’s Grand Avenue neighborhood, to the Kinderberry Hill Family.
A little history- and a lot of heart.
For more than 30 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.
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.
Core Values
Child-First Focus
We do what's best for young children.
Continuous Growth
We live a mission of continuous improvement.
Dependability
Families can count on us to be consistent, caring, and trustworthy every day.
Connecting with Care
We model and foster healthy relationships.
Our History
2008
Kinderberry Hill opens a sixth location in Eden Prairie to care for Southwest metro children. This beautiful facility features a sun-filled artium, 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, istuated 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.
1997
The Plymouth/Minnetonka school opens to serve west metro families.
1993
The 3M location, a family-owned co-op, joins Kinderberry Hill as the Dunkley family adds to their growing number of quality schools.
1990
Local family, William and Susan Dunkley, purchase the Rosevile 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.
1980
A team of Health East doctors and administrators, recognizing the need for a top quality early education program, introduces the Kinderberry Hill concept to the Twin Cities. Originally, Kinderberry Hill included three Twin City Locations: Roseville, Edina, and Maplewood (3M campus).
What we Believe Sets Kinderberry Hill Apart
- Small teacher-to-child ratios allowing more personalized learning
- Small group sizes that support meaningful social and emotional growth
- A dedicated school nurse to ensure the health and well-being of every child
- Enrichment classes that spark curiosity and joy
- Outstanding customer service that reflects our commitment to families
This thoughtful approach allows us to provide not just care, but exceptional care — the kind families feel and remember.
Our teachers see each child as the opportunity of a lifetime.
