The Best Daycare Centers in Teller, AK
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Teller. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Teller
Nome Head Start
Bering Strait Foundation
Nome Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education and family support services to communities throughout the Bering Strait region, including Teller. The program emphasizes school readiness through developmentally appropriate curriculum that incorporates Alaska Native cultural values and traditions. Certified early childhood educators deliver individualized instruction focusing on literacy, math, and social-emotional development. The center offers nutritious meals, health screenings, and family engagement activities. Transportation services are available for eligible families, making it accessible to remote communities. The program maintains low student-teacher ratios and follows strict safety protocols.
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Bering Strait School District Preschool Program
Bering Strait School District
The Bering Strait School District operates high-quality preschool programs serving multiple villages in Northwest Alaska, including Teller. The program employs state-certified early childhood specialists who implement research-based curriculum aligned with Alaska Early Learning Guidelines. Services include developmental screenings, individualized learning plans, and family partnership programs. The district emphasizes cultural integration, incorporating local traditions and language preservation into daily activities. Safety is prioritized with comprehensive emergency protocols and regular facility inspections. The program offers flexible scheduling and works closely with families to support children's transition to kindergarten.
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Little Dippers Discovery Preschool
Independent
Little Dippers Discovery Preschool in Nome serves as a regional childcare hub for families throughout the Seward Peninsula, including Teller residents who commute for services. The center features a play-based learning approach with structured curriculum components in literacy, STEM, and creative arts. Certified teachers maintain small class sizes with excellent child-to-staff ratios. The facility includes secure indoor learning environments and protected outdoor play areas designed for Alaska's climate. The program emphasizes nutrition with homemade meals and accommodates various scheduling needs. Safety features include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. Many Teller families utilize this center due to its comprehensive services and high-quality educational programming.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Teller, AK
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Teller, AK, and how do I find them?
In Teller, a small, remote community in the Nome Census Area, licensed childcare options are primarily limited to Family Child Care (FCC) homes. These are in-home providers licensed by the State of Alaska to care for a small number of children, often offering a more flexible and home-like environment. Due to the community's size, there are no large daycare centers. The best way to find licensed providers is to use the State of Alaska's "Child Care Search" online tool or to contact the thread Alaska thread Child Care Program Office (CCPO) for the Northwest region. It's also very common in Teller to rely on informal, unlicensed care networks among family and trusted community members, but licensed care ensures providers meet state health, safety, and training standards.
Are there long waitlists for childcare in Teller, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Given Teller's limited population and provider options, an opening with a licensed Family Child Care home can be rare and may involve a significant waitlist. It is crucial to begin your search as early as possible, even before your child is born if you are expecting. Proactively contact any listed providers to get on their waitlist and check in regularly. Networking within the community is essential; speak with other parents, at the school, the Teller Native Store, or the city office to learn about potential openings or providers considering becoming licensed. Being flexible with your schedule and considering a share-care arrangement with another family can also increase your chances of finding care.
How much does childcare typically cost in Teller, Alaska?
Childcare costs in remote Alaskan communities like Teller are often higher than the national average due to the high cost of living and limited supply. For a licensed Family Child Care home, you might expect to pay between $800 to $1,200 or more per month for full-time infant or toddler care. Rates can vary based on the provider's experience, hours, and whether meals are included. Importantly, financial assistance is available. The thread Alaska thread Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps eligible low- and moderate-income families pay for care. You can apply through the thread Alaska Department of Health. Additionally, some employers or tribal organizations may offer support.
What specific state licensing requirements and safety regulations should I look for in a Teller childcare provider?
All licensed providers in Teller must comply with Alaska's stringent licensing standards (7 AAC 57). Key requirements you can ask about include: a maximum child-to-provider ratio (e.g., for children under 18 months, it's 1:4), background checks for all adults in the home, current CPR and First Aid certification, ongoing training in early childhood education, and a safe home environment that passes fire and health inspections. Given Teller's climate and isolation, also inquire about their emergency preparedness plan for weather events, power outages, and medical evacuations. A licensed provider will have their certificate displayed and should be open to discussing these protocols.
Are there any culturally relevant or language-based childcare programs in Teller that support the Iñupiaq community?
Teller is a predominantly Iñupiaq community, and while formal, licensed daycare programs with a dedicated cultural curriculum are uncommon, many Family Child Care providers integrate Iñupiaq language and cultural practices into daily activities as a matter of course. This can include teaching simple words, sharing traditional stories, engaging in subsistence-related activities like berry picking (in season), and serving traditional foods. When interviewing providers, ask specifically about how they incorporate local culture. The Teller School may also have resources or afterschool programs with cultural components. For deeper immersion, families often rely on grandparents and extended family, which is a cornerstone of childcare in the village.