The Best Daycare Centers in Carrington, ND
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Carrington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Carrington
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center is Carrington's premier locally-owned childcare facility offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. They feature a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates Creative Curriculum elements with hands-on activities promoting cognitive, social, and physical development. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios with qualified staff holding early childhood education credentials. Facilities include secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and safe outdoor play areas. They emphasize nutritional meal programs and strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences. Their longevity in the community and consistent high ratings reflect their commitment to quality care.
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KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education
As part of the nationally recognized KinderCare network, this Jamestown location serves families throughout the region including Carrington with comprehensive early childhood education programs. They implement research-based curriculum focusing on literacy, math, science, and social skills development through structured learning centers. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, dedicated age-specific classrooms, and certified teachers with ongoing professional development. Their program includes nutritious meals, regular developmental assessments, and strong safety protocols. The established track record and national resources combined with local staffing make this a reliable option for Carrington-area families.
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Lake Region KinderCare
KinderCare Education
Serving the broader region including Carrington families, Lake Region KinderCare offers nationally accredited early childhood education with a focus on school readiness. Their curriculum emphasizes phonics-based reading, mathematics concepts, and social-emotional learning through structured play and guided activities. The facility features secure environments with monitored access, age-appropriate learning materials, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different developmental stages. Staff maintain current certifications in CPR/first aid and participate in continuous training. The center's long-standing presence in the region and consistent parent satisfaction ratings demonstrate reliable quality care for commuting families from Carrington.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Carrington, ND
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Carrington, ND, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Carrington, all childcare providers caring for more than five children must be licensed by the North Dakota Department of Human Services (NDDHS). This includes family daycares (in a home) and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and training. To verify a provider's license, you can use the official "Child Care Finder" search tool on the NDDHS website. It's highly recommended to check this status, as it is your primary assurance that the facility meets North Dakota's regulatory standards for child safety and quality of care.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Carrington, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Carrington, waitlists for the most sought-after daycare centers and licensed in-home providers can be significant. It is not uncommon for parents to encounter waitlists of 6 to 12 months, especially for infant care. We strongly recommend beginning your search as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before you need care. Contact providers directly to get on their lists and ask for specific timelines. Being flexible with your start date can also improve your chances of securing a spot sooner.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Carrington, ND?
In Carrington, childcare costs are generally lower than in larger North Dakota cities like Fargo or Bismarck, but they still represent a significant household expense. For full-time care (5 days a week), you can expect to pay approximately $600 to $850 per month for an infant or toddler at a licensed center or in-home provider. Rates vary based on the provider's amenities, staff qualifications, and meal programs. It's important to ask exactly what is included in the weekly rate (e.g., diapers, wipes, meals). For financial assistance, you can apply for the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) through Foster County Social Services if you meet income eligibility requirements.
Are there any unique childcare options in Carrington that cater to the schedules of agricultural or shift-working families?
Yes, understanding the local economy, some providers in the Carrington area offer flexible scheduling to accommodate families involved in farming, healthcare, or shift work. This may include early morning drop-offs (before 6:00 AM), evening care, or occasional overnight care during critical planting or harvest seasons. These arrangements are more commonly found with licensed family childcare homes, which can offer more personalized and flexible hours than larger centers. It's essential to discuss your specific scheduling needs upfront when interviewing providers. Additionally, some providers may offer drop-in or part-time care for days when regular school-age programs are closed.
What resources are available in Carrington to help me evaluate and choose a quality daycare?
Beyond checking state licensing, parents in Carrington have several local resources. First, you can contact the **Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency for North Dakota** (served by the Village Family Service Center). They offer free referrals to licensed providers in your area and can provide checklists for quality indicators. Second, schedule in-person tours and ask providers for references from current families—local word-of-mouth is incredibly valuable in a small community. Third, observe the environment: look for clean, safe spaces, engaged staff, and a structured daily routine. Finally, check if the provider participates in North Dakota's **Early Childhood Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS)**, known as "Bright & Early ND," which is a voluntary program that rates quality beyond minimum licensing.