The Best Daycare Centers in Goodrich, ND
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Goodrich. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Goodrich
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center provides comprehensive early childhood education with a play-based learning approach that incorporates structured academic preparation. Their curriculum focuses on social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM activities tailored to each age group. The center features certified early childhood educators with low student-teacher ratios, secure entry systems, and daily communication with parents through a dedicated app. They offer nutritious meals and snacks, large outdoor play areas, and developmentally appropriate classrooms. What sets them apart is their strong focus on kindergarten readiness and individualized learning plans for each child.
Daycare Services:
Little Scholars Preschool
Independent
Little Scholars Preschool offers a research-based curriculum that balances academic preparation with social development. Their program includes phonics-based reading instruction, hands-on math activities, and science exploration. The center employs degreed early childhood educators who maintain small class sizes for personalized attention. Safety features include secure check-in systems, CCTV monitoring, and strict health protocols. They stand out for their comprehensive assessment system that tracks developmental milestones and their strong parent partnership program with regular progress conferences and classroom observations.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Academy of Bismarck
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Bismarck provides the nationally recognized Life Essentials® curriculum that promotes character development, literacy, and cognitive skills through purposeful play and structured learning. The center features state-licensed teachers with ongoing professional development, modern security systems including keypad entry, and comprehensive health and safety protocols. Their facilities include age-appropriate learning centers, outdoor playgrounds, and technology-integrated classrooms. The academy distinguishes itself with its character education program, daily photo and activity updates for parents, and flexible scheduling options to meet diverse family needs.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Goodrich, ND
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Goodrich, ND, and how do I find them?
In Goodrich and the surrounding Mercer County area, licensed childcare options primarily include Family Child Care (FCC) homes and possibly a licensed center if one operates in the community. FCC providers care for a smaller number of children in their own residence, which can offer a home-like environment. Due to Goodrich's small, rural nature, options may be limited within the city limits, so many parents also consider providers in nearby towns like Beulah or Hazen. The best resource to find licensed providers is the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Child Care Finder website. You can search by zip code (58444) and filter by license type, hours, and accepted subsidies.
What is the typical cost for full-time daycare in Goodrich, and are there any financial assistance programs for families?
In rural North Dakota communities like Goodrich, full-time daycare costs can vary but are generally lower than state urban averages. For a Family Child Care home, you might expect to pay between $120 to $180 per week per child for full-time care. Costs can be influenced by the child's age and the provider's specific services (meals, curriculum). Financial assistance is available through the North Dakota Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which helps eligible low- and moderate-income families pay for care. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (work, school). It's crucial to apply through your local county social services office and ensure your chosen provider is registered to accept CCAP subsidies.
Are waitlists common for daycare in Goodrich, and how far in advance should I start looking for care?
Given the limited number of providers in a small community like Goodrich, waitlists are very common and can be lengthy. A licensed Family Child Care home may only have a few slots for infants or toddlers, which fill quickly. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search during pregnancy or at least 6-12 months before their needed start date. Don't hesitate to get on multiple waitlists, including those with providers in neighboring communities. Building a relationship with local providers and checking in periodically (without being intrusive) can also help you secure a spot when one opens.
What are North Dakota's key licensing requirements for childcare providers that I should verify when choosing care in Goodrich?
All licensed providers in North Dakota must meet state standards overseen by the Department of HHS. Key requirements you should ask about include: 1) **Staff-to-Child Ratios and Group Sizes:** For family homes, this varies by ages of children present. 2) **Background Checks:** All caregivers and household members over 12 must have cleared criminal history and child abuse and neglect checks. 3) **Health and Safety Training:** Providers must have training in CPR, First Aid, and Safe Sleep practices for infants. 4) **Annual Licensing Inspections:** Homes are inspected for health, safety, and program standards. You can request to see a provider's current license and any recent inspection reports to ensure compliance.
As a parent in a rural area like Goodrich, what should I look for in a childcare provider to ensure they can handle potential emergencies?
Emergency preparedness is critical in rural settings where response times may be longer. When interviewing providers, ask specific questions: 1) **Medical Emergencies:** Confirm the provider's certification in pediatric CPR and First Aid is current. Ask about their plan for getting a child to the nearest clinic or hospital (in Beulah or Hazen) and if they have transportation always available. 2) **Weather & Natural Disasters:** Given North Dakota's severe weather, inquire about plans for tornadoes, blizzards, and power outages. Do they have a safe shelter, backup heat, and emergency supplies? 3) **Communication:** How will they contact you during an emergency, especially if cell service is unreliable? A provider with a clear, practiced emergency plan demonstrates essential responsibility for your child's safety in a rural community.