The Best Daycare Centers in Hazen, ND
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Hazen. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Hazen
Hazen Head Start
Community Action Partnership
Hazen Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education with a strong focus on school readiness and family engagement. The program follows the Creative Curriculum and emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy, and numeracy skills. All lead teachers hold Early Childhood Education degrees and the center maintains low student-teacher ratios. The facility includes modern classrooms, dedicated play areas, and nutritional meal services. What sets this center apart is its holistic approach that integrates health, nutrition, and family support services with high-quality early education, serving children from low-income families in the Hazen community.
Daycare Services:
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center offers a comprehensive childcare program serving children from 6 weeks to 12 years. The center utilizes a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation. Their curriculum includes STEAM activities, literacy development, and social skills building. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and modern safety systems including coded entry. Staff members are CPR/First Aid certified and participate in ongoing professional development. The center is particularly noted for its flexible scheduling options and strong communication with parents through daily updates and regular conferences.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Kampus Daycare
Independent
Kiddie Kampus Daycare provides nurturing care with an educational foundation for children in the Hazen area. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through centers and thematic units that cover literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts. The facility includes separate infant and toddler rooms, a large indoor gross motor area, and fenced outdoor playground. Safety is prioritized with secure entry systems, regular safety drills, and comprehensive background checks for all staff. The center stands out for its family-like atmosphere and individualized attention to each child's developmental needs, with teachers maintaining detailed progress records and regular parent communication.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Hazen, ND
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available for families in Hazen, ND?
In Hazen, North Dakota, licensed childcare options primarily include licensed family child care homes and licensed child care centers. Family child care homes are typically run out of a provider's residence and offer a smaller, home-like setting, which can be ideal for infants and toddlers. Given Hazen's smaller population, these are often the most prevalent type. Licensed centers, which may be part of a local church, school, or independent business, offer structured programs for larger groups of children. The North Dakota Department of Human Services' Early Childhood Services division licenses and monitors all providers. Due to the rural nature of the area, options can be limited, so it's recommended to start your search early and also inquire about any registered but unlicensed providers (caring for fewer children) that might be available.
How can I find and verify the license and inspection history of a daycare provider in Hazen?
The State of North Dakota provides an excellent online resource called "Child Care Finder" through the Department of Human Services website. You can search specifically for providers in Mercer County or by Hazen's zip code (58545). This tool shows the provider's name, address, type of license, capacity, and age ranges accepted. Crucially, it includes their licensing status and links to inspection reports, which detail any compliance issues or commendations. You can also contact the West Central Human Service Center, which serves Mercer County, for additional information or to speak with a licensing specialist. Always verify a provider's current license status before enrolling your child.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Hazen, and are there financial assistance programs?
In Hazen and the surrounding Mercer County area, costs for full-time infant care typically range from $600 to $850 per month, while toddler care may range from $550 to $750 per month. These rates are generally lower than the state average due to the rural cost of living. Financial assistance is available for qualifying families through the North Dakota Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP). Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reasons for needing care (such as employment or education). Applications are processed through the West Central Human Service Center. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts, so be sure to ask.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Hazen, and what should I do to secure a spot?
Yes, due to the limited number of providers in a smaller community like Hazen, waitlists are very common, especially for infant care spots which have stricter staff-to-child ratios. It is strongly advised to begin your search during pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before you need care. Contact all licensed providers in the area to get on their waitlists, even if their current availability is unknown. Be prepared to provide your child's anticipated start date and age. Follow up periodically to express continued interest. Exploring options in nearby communities like Beulah or Stanton may also be necessary, but consider the added commute.
What are some local considerations for daycare schedules and closures that are specific to the Hazen area?
Daycare schedules in Hazen often align with the local Hazen Public School District calendar for major holidays and snow days. Given North Dakota's winters, it's important to ask providers about their severe weather closure policies. Many in-home providers may also follow the school's schedule for convenience. Furthermore, due to the area's ties to the energy and agricultural industries, some providers may offer more flexible hours for parents working non-traditional shifts in these sectors. Always ask about specific closure days for local events like Hazen's "Hazen Hoop Days" or the Mercer County Fair, as some smaller providers may close or have modified hours.