The Best Daycare Centers in Fullerton, ND
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Fullerton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Fullerton
Dickey County Day Care
Dickey County
Dickey County Day Care is a highly-regarded facility serving the Fullerton area with a play-based educational approach that emphasizes developmental milestones. The curriculum integrates literacy, math, and social skills through hands-on activities and structured play. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified, with low teacher-to-child ratios ensuring personalized attention. The center features secure indoor and outdoor play areas, nutritious meal programs, and strong parent communication systems. Parents consistently praise its safe, nurturing environment and the staff's dedication to early childhood development.
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Oakes Community Child Care
Independent
Oakes Community Child Care offers a balanced curriculum focusing on STEM activities, creative arts, and social-emotional learning. The center employs experienced teachers with backgrounds in early childhood education, maintaining high safety standards with monitored access and regular emergency drills. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms and outdoor play spaces, with an emphasis on inclusivity and parent involvement. The daycare is known for its flexible scheduling and commitment to fostering a supportive, educational environment for children.
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Little Learners Child Center
Independent
Little Learners Child Center provides a comprehensive early education program with a focus on individualized learning and developmental tracking. The curriculum blends Montessori-inspired activities with traditional preschool elements, promoting independence and critical thinking. Staff are highly qualified with ongoing training in child development and safety protocols. The facility boasts modern, clean environments with dedicated areas for different age groups, nutritious snacks, and robust communication tools for parents. It stands out for its high parent satisfaction rates and emphasis on cultural diversity and inclusion.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Fullerton, ND
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Fullerton, ND, and how can I verify a provider's license?
In Fullerton, 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), Early Childhood Services division. Licensed providers must meet specific standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and ongoing training. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the official "Child Care Finder" search tool on the North Dakota HHS website. This tool allows you to search by city (Fullerton) and view the provider's license type, capacity, and any history of compliance visits or violations. For smaller, registered family daycares (caring for 5 or fewer children), you can contact the local HHS regional office serving Dickey County for verification.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers or in-home providers in Fullerton, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to limited childcare options in smaller communities like Fullerton, waitlists can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for infant care. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible, even during pregnancy. When contacting providers, be specific about your needed start date and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee, which is common. Also, consider expanding your search to nearby towns such as Oakes, Ellendale, or even Aberdeen, SD, which may have more facilities. Building a relationship with a local licensed family daycare provider can sometimes result in a shorter wait, as they may operate with more flexibility.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Fullerton, ND, and are there any state assistance programs to help with costs?
The average cost for full-time childcare in Fullerton and surrounding Dickey County is generally lower than the national average but can vary. For a licensed daycare center, you might expect to pay between $600 to $850 per month for a preschool-aged child. Infant care is typically more expensive, often ranging from $700 to $950 per month. In-home family daycare is usually slightly less expensive. North Dakota offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or education). You can apply through the Dickey County Social Services office. Additionally, many providers participate in the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program, which helps subsidize nutritious meals and snacks.
Are there any part-time or non-traditional hour childcare options available in Fullerton for parents who work shifts or weekends?
Finding part-time or non-traditional hour care (evenings, nights, weekends) in Fullerton is very challenging, as most licensed providers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, daytime schedule. Your best option is to seek out registered family childcare homes, as some providers may offer more flexible hours by individual arrangement. It's crucial to discuss your specific schedule needs upfront. Another potential resource is to network with other local parents through community groups or social media to explore shared nanny arrangements or babysitting co-ops. For occasional or backup care, you might need to rely on trusted family members or individual babysitters, as formal facilities offering drop-in or hourly care are not typically available in the area.
What should I look for during a daycare tour in Fullerton, and are there any local resources to help me evaluate quality?
When touring a daycare in Fullerton, look beyond the basics. Observe if children are engaged and happy, check for cleanliness and safety (covered outlets, secure gates, clean toys), and ask about the daily routine and curriculum. Specifically inquire about staff qualifications, turnover rates, and emergency procedures. Given the rural setting, ask about their plan for severe weather and transportation policies. A key local resource is the Child Care Aware agency for North Dakota. They offer free referrals and can provide guidance on quality indicators. You can also ask the provider for references from current Fullerton-area parents. Finally, always verify their most recent licensing report from ND HHS, which details compliance with state standards.