The Best Daycare Centers in Dazey, ND
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Dazey. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Dazey
Carrington Early Childhood Center
Carrington Public School District
Carrington Early Childhood Center is part of the Carrington Public School District and serves as the primary early childhood education provider for the region. The center focuses on school readiness with a comprehensive curriculum that includes literacy development, social skills, and cognitive development. Certified early childhood educators provide structured learning environments with low student-teacher ratios. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, secure entry systems, and developmental screening programs. Parents consistently praise the center's professional staff, communication, and the smooth transition children experience when entering kindergarten.
Daycare Services:
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center offers comprehensive childcare services for children from infancy through school age. The center employs a play-based learning approach combined with structured educational activities tailored to each developmental stage. Their curriculum emphasizes early literacy, math readiness, and social-emotional development. The facility includes secure indoor play areas, age-separated classrooms, and outdoor play spaces. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified with ongoing professional development. The center is noted for its family-friendly atmosphere, flexible scheduling options, and nutritious meal program.
Daycare Services:
Jamestown YMCA Childcare Center
Jamestown YMCA
The Jamestown YMCA Childcare Center provides high-quality early childhood education with a focus on character development and healthy living. Their curriculum incorporates the YMCA's core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. The center features state-licensed facilities with secure access, modern learning materials, and dedicated outdoor play areas. Qualified early childhood educators implement developmentally appropriate practices and maintain detailed progress reports. The center is particularly praised for its inclusive environment, swimming opportunities for older children, and comprehensive before/after school programs serving the broader regional area.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Dazey, ND
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Dazey, ND, and how do I find them?
In Dazey and the surrounding rural area of North Dakota, licensed childcare primarily comes in two forms: licensed family childcare homes and licensed childcare centers, though centers are less common in very small towns. Family childcare homes are typically run out of a provider's residence and can care for a smaller number of children, often offering a more home-like setting. To find licensed providers, your best resource is the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Child Care Finder website. You can search by zip code (58429 for Dazey) to see a list of licensed options. Additionally, contacting the Barnes County Social Services office or asking for local recommendations at community hubs like the Dazey Cafe or the post office can be very helpful, as many quality providers operate through word-of-mouth.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in Dazey, and when should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small community like Dazey, waitlists can be significant, often ranging from 6 months to over a year, especially for infants and toddlers. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a move to the area begin their search as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before you need care. Contact providers directly to inquire about their current waitlist procedures and potential openings. Being flexible with your start date can improve your chances. Don't hesitate to get on multiple lists, even for providers in nearby towns like Kathryn or Valley City, as commuting for childcare is common in rural North Dakota.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Dazey, and are there any financial assistance programs?
In Dazey and rural Barnes County, costs for full-time, licensed family childcare typically range from $120 to $180 per week per child. Infant care is often at the higher end of that range. These rates are generally lower than in larger North Dakota cities like Fargo or Bismarck but reflect local incomes. Financial help is available through the North Dakota Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), administered by Barnes County Social Services. Eligibility is based on family income, household size, and need (such as employment or education). It's crucial to apply for CCAP as soon as you identify a provider, as the application process takes time and your chosen provider must be a licensed participant in the program.
What are North Dakota's key licensing requirements for childcare providers that I should verify?
All licensed providers in Dazey must meet North Dakota HHS standards. Key requirements parents should verify include: 1) **Staff-to-Child Ratios and Group Sizes:** For example, for children under 2 years, the ratio is 1 staff to 4 children. 2) **Background Checks:** All staff must have cleared state and federal criminal history record checks. 3) **Health and Safety Training:** Providers must have training in CPR, First Aid, and Safe Sleep practices for infants. 4) **Annual Inspections:** Homes and centers undergo annual unannounced inspections for health, safety, and program quality. You can ask to see a provider's current license and their most recent inspection report. The state also has a quality rating system called "Bright & Early ND," which can help you identify programs that exceed basic standards.
Given Dazey's rural location, what should I ask a potential provider about emergency preparedness and communication?
This is a critical consideration. You should ask specific questions about: **Weather/Emergency Plans:** How do they handle severe winter storms, blizzards, or tornado warnings? Where do they shelter? What is the plan for early closure or if parents cannot travel? **Communication:** How will they contact you if the power or phone lines are down? Do they have a backup method? **Transportation & Field Trips:** If they leave the premises, what vehicle is used, and is it properly insured and equipped with car seats? **Healthcare Access:** What is the protocol for a sick or injured child? Which clinic or hospital in Valley City or Lisbon do they use, and how quickly can they get there? A reputable provider will have clear, written policies for these scenarios, which are essential for rural safety.
Childcare Insights for Dazey
Finding reliable and engaging summer childcare is a priority for many families in Dazey as the school year winds down. The search for "summer daycare near me" here in our small, tight-knit community comes with its own unique considerations. While we may not have the large commercial daycare chains found in bigger cities, Dazey and the surrounding Barnes County area offer wonderful, personalized options that can provide your children with a safe and memorable summer. The key is starting your search early and knowing where to look within our local landscape.
Many excellent childcare providers in our region operate as licensed family daycares or in-home programs. These settings often have a home-like atmosphere with smaller groups, which can be a perfect fit for younger children or those who thrive in a calmer environment. Connecting with other parents at the Dazey Cafe or after church services can be one of the best ways to hear about these valued but sometimes less-advertised openings. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations; personal referrals are gold in a community like ours. Additionally, exploring options in nearby towns such as Kathryn, Rogers, or even Valley City can broaden your possibilities, especially for specialized summer programs that might include field trips or swimming lessons.
When evaluating a summer daycare in the Dazey area, consider how they embrace the North Dakota summer. The best programs will make the most of our beautiful, sunny days. Ask potential providers about their daily outdoor play schedule, if they have access to sprinklers or kiddie pools for cooling off, and if they incorporate nature walks or simple gardening activities. Given our agricultural surroundings, a provider who can point out the growing crops or local wildlife adds a special educational touch. It’s also wise to inquire about their policies on hot days and how they ensure the children stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
For school-aged children, look into whether any local summer recreation programs or 4-H activities are available that a daycare provider might help facilitate transportation to. Flexibility is another important factor for families in our rural area. Many local providers understand the varied schedules of farming families or those commuting to work in Jamestown or Fargo. Be upfront about your needed hours and any potential weeks you might need extra care during harvest or other busy times. Finally, trust your instincts during a visit. A great summer daycare in Dazey should feel welcoming, organized, and filled with the sounds of happy, engaged children. It should be a place where your child can build summer friendships, enjoy new adventures, and return home each day with stories to tell, all within the safe and familiar feeling of our community.