The Best Daycare Centers in Argusville, ND
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Argusville. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Argusville
Primrose School of West Fargo
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of West Fargo offers a nationally accredited Balanced Learning® curriculum that combines teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. Their approach emphasizes character development, literacy, math, science, and social skills through hands-on learning. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning spaces. Teachers hold early childhood credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The school serves families throughout the Fargo-Moorhead metro area, including Argusville commuters, with extended hours and nutritious meals included.
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The Goddard School of Fargo
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Fargo provides a play-based learning environment with F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum that promotes social, emotional, and academic development. The center features secure keypad entry, live streaming for parents, and modern classrooms with interactive technology. All teachers are degreed or certified in early childhood education and participate in continuous training. The school offers flexible scheduling options and serves families from surrounding communities including Argusville, with emphasis on STEAM learning and developmental milestones tracking.
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Little Red Barn Child Care & Preschool
Independent
Little Red Barn Child Care & Preschool is a locally owned facility serving the Fargo-Moorhead area with comprehensive early childhood programs. Their curriculum focuses on developmental appropriate practices through Creative Curriculum, incorporating literacy, math, science, and social studies. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, secure facilities with surveillance systems, and large outdoor play areas. Staff members hold early childhood degrees and certifications, with many having decade-plus tenure. The center is known for its family-like atmosphere and serves commuters from Argusville with extended hours and transportation options.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Argusville, ND
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Argusville, ND, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Argusville and all of North Dakota, childcare providers must be licensed by the North Dakota Department of Human Services (NDDHS) if they care for more than five children. This includes family child care homes and child care centers. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and staff qualifications. To verify a facility's license status, you can use the "Child Care Finder" search tool on the official NDDHS website. This tool allows you to search by city (Argusville) and view the provider's license type, any history of non-compliance, and their current standing. It's a crucial first step for any parent to ensure they are considering a legally operating and regulated facility.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in the Argusville area, and when should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of dedicated childcare facilities in smaller communities like Argusville, waitlists can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for infant care. It is highly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a move begin their search as early as possible—ideally during the first or second trimester of pregnancy. Many parents in the Cass County area also explore licensed family daycare homes in Argusville or neighboring communities like Fargo for more immediate openings. Being proactive, getting on multiple lists, and checking in periodically are key strategies for securing a spot.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare for an infant or toddler in Argusville, ND?
Childcare costs in Argusville are generally aligned with regional averages for Cass County. For a full-time infant (under 18 months), you can expect to pay approximately $800 to $1,100 per month at a licensed center. Toddler care (18 months to 3 years) typically ranges from $700 to $950 per month. Licensed family childcare homes may offer slightly lower rates. It's important to note that North Dakota offers a Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families to help offset these costs. You can apply through the Cass County Social Services office to determine if you qualify for financial support based on income and family size.
Are there any state or local programs in North Dakota that help parents find and pay for childcare in Argusville?
Yes, North Dakota has several key programs. The primary resource is the **Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)**, administered by Cass County Human Service Zone, which provides subsidies to eligible low- and moderate-income families. Additionally, the state's **Child Care Finder** website is the essential tool for locating licensed providers in Argusville. For child development support, the **North Dakota Early Childhood Special Education** program serves children with developmental delays. While Argusville itself is small, many parents also utilize resources and referral services from the larger **Fargo-Cass Public Health** department, which offers guidance on choosing quality care and child wellness.
What should I look for during a tour of a daycare or preschool in Argusville, given North Dakota's specific regulations and environment?
During a tour, first confirm their NDDHS license is visibly posted. Ask about staff qualifications; North Dakota requires lead teachers in centers to have a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or higher. Observe the staff-to-child ratios: for infants (0-12 months), it should be 1:4; for toddlers (12-24 months), 1:5. Given North Dakota's climate, inquire about their outdoor play policy in winter and summer and check that their indoor space is safe and stimulating. Ask about their emergency plans for severe weather common to the Red River Valley. Finally, request references from other local parents to get firsthand accounts of their experience with the provider's reliability and quality of care.
Childcare Insights for Argusville
Finding quality childcare with current openings can feel like a pressing mission for any parent. If you're in Argusville, North Dakota, and typing "daycares with openings near me" into your search bar, you're likely navigating that mix of hope and urgency. The good news is that while options in smaller communities require a dedicated search, there are pathways to finding the right care for your child right here in our corner of Cass County.
Your search in Argusville benefits greatly from thinking both locally and regionally. As a smaller community, Argusville itself may have a limited number of licensed home-based providers or smaller centers. This makes it essential to cast a net that includes the surrounding areas many local families rely on, such as Harwood, Fargo, and even parts of rural Cass County. Many excellent providers in these neighboring towns are accustomed to serving families from Argusville, understanding the commute patterns and community connections. Start your search by checking the North Dakota Department of Human Services' online childcare licensing search tool. This official resource allows you to filter by location, type of care, and, crucially, can sometimes indicate current capacity or provide direct contact information. Calling is almost always the most effective first step, as online listings may not be updated in real-time.
When you make those calls, come prepared with questions that matter for your family's routine. Given our North Dakota climate, ask about their policies for outdoor play in colder months and how they ensure children get active time year-round. Inquire about their flexibility for the schedules of parents who might commute into Fargo for work, as well as their drop-off and pick-up windows. For a community like Argusville, the sense of connection is vital. Ask if the provider or center fosters a family-like atmosphere and how they communicate with parents throughout the day. A good sign is a provider who understands the values of a close-knit community and incorporates that warmth into their daily routine.
Don't underestimate the power of local networks. The Argusville community is your best asset. Reach out to neighbors, connect with other parents at community events, or post a polite inquiry on a trusted local social media group. Personal recommendations often lead to discovering home daycares or smaller programs that don't have a large online presence but are cherished by local families. These word-of-mouth referrals can also give you honest insights into a provider's reliability and the day-to-day experience they offer.
Finally, trust your instincts during a visit. Whether you're looking at a provider's home in Argusville or a center in a nearby town, observe if the children seem engaged and happy. Is the space safe, clean, and stimulating? Does the caregiver interact with the children in a way that puts you at ease? Securing a daycare spot is more than just finding an opening; it's about finding a partner in your child's early development. With a blend of diligent research, community conversation, and personal observation, you can find a nurturing and reliable childcare solution that fits your family's needs right here in the Argusville area.