The Best Daycare Centers in Erie, ND
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Erie. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Erie
KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education
KinderCare Learning Center in Grand Forks is a highly-rated childcare facility known for its research-based curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math, and social-emotional development through play-based learning. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, with staff holding early childhood education credentials and ongoing training in safety protocols. Facilities include secure indoor and outdoor play areas, age-appropriate learning materials, and a focus on inclusive environments. Parent communication is prioritized through daily updates and regular progress reports, contributing to strong satisfaction ratings. It serves the Erie area as a trusted option for comprehensive childcare.
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Primrose School of Fargo
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Fargo offers a Balanced Learning® curriculum that blends academic readiness with character development and life skills. The center is renowned for its qualified teachers with early childhood certifications, small class sizes, and rigorous safety measures including secured entry systems and health protocols. Programs include hands-on activities in literacy, science, and arts, supported by nutritious meal plans and outdoor play spaces. High parent satisfaction stems from transparent communication and a focus on individual child milestones, making it a top choice for families in the Erie region.
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The Goddard School of West Fargo
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of West Fargo features the F.L.E.X.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience), which promotes cognitive, social, and physical development through play-based and academic activities. Staff are highly qualified with degrees in early childhood education, and the center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and state-of-the-art safety features like CCTV monitoring and sanitization routines. The facility includes modern classrooms, interactive learning zones, and outdoor playgrounds, with an emphasis on diversity and parent involvement. Its strong track record and comprehensive services make it accessible and reliable for Erie-area families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Erie, ND
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Erie, North Dakota, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In North Dakota, all childcare providers caring for more than five children must be licensed by the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Child Care Licensing Division. This includes family daycares (in a home) and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and background checks. For Erie, a small community, many options may be licensed family providers. You can verify a provider's license status and view any past non-compliance reports by using the "Find Child Care" search tool on the ND HHS website. It's a critical first step to ensure your child's safety and the program's legitimacy.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in and around Erie, ND, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to Erie's small size and limited number of providers, quality daycare spots can be in high demand, often resulting in waitlists that can range from several months to over a year, especially for infant care. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy. Contact providers in Erie and also consider those in nearby larger towns like Fargo or Casselton. Be proactive: call to check your status on the list periodically, and be prepared with flexible start dates. Building a relationship with a provider can also be beneficial in a close-knit community.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Erie, North Dakota?
Childcare costs in Erie and rural Cass County are generally lower than in Fargo, but prices vary by provider type. For a licensed family daycare home, you might expect to pay between $600 to $800 per month for full-time infant or toddler care. A childcare center in a neighboring town would likely be higher, potentially $800 to $1,100+ per month. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate (meals, snacks, supplies). To help with costs, explore the North Dakota Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which provides subsidies to eligible families based on income, family size, and need.
Are there any unique childcare options or programs in Erie, ND, that cater to agricultural families or non-standard work hours?
Given Erie's rural setting, some providers may offer more flexibility for families in agriculture or shift work, though it's not guaranteed. Your best bet is to seek out licensed family childcare homes, as they may have more adaptable hours than centers. Some providers might offer early morning drop-off or later pick-up by arrangement. There are also a limited number of registered "legally unlicensed" providers (caring for 5 or fewer children) who might offer highly flexible, part-time, or drop-in care. Networking within the local community, such as through churches or the Erie School, is often the most effective way to find these niche arrangements.
What resources are available in Erie or Cass County to help me evaluate and choose a quality childcare program?
A key local resource is the Child Care Aware® of North Dakota agency, which serves Cass County. They offer free, personalized referrals to licensed providers in your area and can guide you through quality indicators. They emphasize looking for providers participating in the state's "Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS)," called Bright & Early ND, which rates programs on a star system. While there may not be a rated center directly in Erie, looking for this designation in nearby programs is a sign of higher quality. Additionally, schedule in-person visits, ask for references from other local parents, and observe how caregivers interact with children to make the best choice for your family.