The Best Daycare Centers in Harwood, ND
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Harwood. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Harwood
Kindercare Learning Center - North Fargo
KinderCare Education
This highly-rated KinderCare center serves the Harwood area with comprehensive early childhood education programs. They feature a research-based curriculum focusing on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. Certified teachers maintain low student-teacher ratios, and the facility includes secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers. Their program includes nutritious meals and regular parent communication through digital updates. The center is known for its structured learning environment and experienced staff with ongoing professional development.
Daycare Services:
New Horizon Learning Center
Independent
New Horizon Learning Center provides exceptional childcare services to the Greater Fargo area, including Harwood families. Their educational approach combines play-based learning with structured academic preparation. The center features state-licensed teachers with early childhood credentials, secure facilities with camera monitoring, and developmentally appropriate classrooms. They emphasize character development, social skills, and kindergarten readiness. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, cleanliness, and the caring, qualified teaching staff who create a nurturing environment for children's growth.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Fargo
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in South Fargo serves Harwood area families with their F.L.EX.(R) Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, arts, and physical development. The facility features secure access, modern classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All teachers have early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing training. The school is particularly noted for its strong parent-teacher communication, detailed progress reports, and focus on preparing children for elementary school success through individualized learning plans.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Harwood, ND
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Harwood, North Dakota, and how can I verify a provider's compliance?
In North Dakota, all childcare providers caring for more than five children must be licensed by the North Dakota Department of Human Services (NDDHS). This includes family daycare homes and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and training. For Harwood specifically, you can verify a provider's license status and view any past violations through the NDDHS Child Care Finder website or by contacting the Southeast Child Care Resource & Referral agency, which serves the Cass County region. It's always recommended to ask the provider directly for their license number and to confirm they are in good standing.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers or in-home providers in the Harwood area, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to high demand and limited providers in smaller communities like Harwood, waitlists can vary significantly. For popular centers or highly recommended in-home providers, waitlists of 6 to 12 months are not uncommon, especially for infant care. To secure a spot, parents are advised to begin their search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Contact multiple providers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee in some cases. Consider expanding your search to neighboring communities like Fargo or Argusville for more options, but be mindful of commute times. Follow up with providers every few months to show continued interest.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare for an infant or toddler in Harwood, ND?
Childcare costs in Harwood are generally influenced by regional rates from the nearby Fargo metropolitan area. For full-time care (5 days a week), you can expect to pay approximately $800 to $1,200 per month for an infant or toddler at a licensed center or in-home provider. In-home family daycare is often at the lower end of this range, while centers with extended hours or specialized curricula may charge more. North Dakota offers a Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for income-eligible families to help offset costs. It's crucial to ask providers exactly what is included in the weekly rate (meals, snacks, supplies) and to understand their policies for late pick-up fees or vacation closures.
Are there any state or local programs in North Dakota that help parents find and pay for childcare in Harwood?
Yes, there are several key programs. The primary resource is the **Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)**, a state-subsidized program that helps eligible low- to moderate-income families pay for childcare. You apply through the Cass County Human Service Zone office. For finding providers, the **Southeast Child Care Resource & Referral (SCCR&R)** offers free, personalized referrals to licensed providers in Harwood and Cass County. They can be reached at (701) 298-7888 or online. Additionally, some employers in the Fargo-Harwood corridor may offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) or partnerships with specific providers.
What are the most common types of childcare settings available in Harwood, and what are the pros and cons of each?
Harwood primarily offers two types of licensed childcare settings. First, **Licensed Family Childcare Homes**: These are in-home providers caring for a smaller group of children (up to 12, including their own). They often offer a home-like environment, mixed-age groups, and potentially more flexible hours. The main consideration is ensuring the provider has a backup plan for illness or emergencies. Second, **Childcare Centers**: While fewer may be located directly in Harwood, several are within a short commute in Fargo. These offer structured programs, multiple staff, and often longer operating hours. They may have stricter sick policies and less individual flexibility. Given Harwood's size, some parents also utilize **licensed exempt providers** (caring for 5 or fewer children) or organized **parent co-ops**, though these are less common.