The Best Daycare Centers in Pembina, ND
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Pembina. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Pembina
TLC The Learning Center
TLC Educational Centers
TLC The Learning Center is a highly-regarded childcare facility serving the greater Pembina area with comprehensive educational programs. They employ a research-based curriculum focused on early childhood development, featuring age-appropriate learning activities, structured play, and social-emotional development. All teachers hold early childhood education credentials with ongoing professional development. The facility features secure entry systems, comprehensive safety protocols, and modern learning environments with both indoor and outdoor play spaces. They emphasize parent communication through daily updates and regular progress reports, with nutritional meal programs and flexible scheduling options.
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University Children's Center
University of North Dakota
University Children's Center provides high-quality early childhood education serving families throughout the region, including Pembina residents. Operating under the University of North Dakota's educational framework, they offer a developmental approach that blends play-based learning with structured academic preparation. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, degreed early childhood educators, and comprehensive safety measures including secure facilities and health protocols. Their curriculum emphasizes literacy development, STEM exploration, and social skills, with spacious classrooms, dedicated playgrounds, and nutritious meal programs developed by childhood nutrition specialists.
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Cavalier Children's Center
Independent Community Center
Cavalier Children's Center serves the Pembina County region with a community-focused approach to early childhood education. Their program combines structured learning with creative exploration, featuring literacy-rich environments, hands-on math and science activities, and social development programs. The center maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios with qualified early childhood professionals who receive continuous training. Safety is prioritized through secure facilities, comprehensive background checks, and emergency preparedness protocols. They offer flexible scheduling, nutritious meals and snacks, and strong parent communication through digital platforms and regular conferences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Pembina, ND
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Pembina, ND, and how do I find them?
In Pembina and the surrounding Pembina County area, licensed childcare primarily comes in two forms: licensed family child care homes and licensed child care centers. Family child care homes are smaller, home-based settings often offering a more flexible, family-like environment, which can be a good fit in a smaller community like Pembina. Licensed centers are less common in very small towns but may be found in nearby larger communities like Cavalier or Grafton. To find licensed providers, your best resource is the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Child Care Finder website. You can search by zip code (58271) and filter for Pembina. Additionally, contacting the First District Health Unit, which serves Pembina County, can provide local referrals and information on licensing.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in Pembina, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small, rural town like Pembina, waitlists can be significant and unpredictable. It's not uncommon for popular family child care homes to have waitlists of several months to over a year, especially for infant care. To secure a spot, start your search as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy. Contact all licensed providers in Pembina and inquire about their current enrollment and waitlist procedures. Get on multiple waitlists, even with providers in neighboring towns like Neche or St. Thomas. Be proactive and check in periodically (every 2-3 months) to express your continued interest. Building a relationship with a provider can sometimes improve your position.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Pembina, and are there financial assistance programs available?
The cost of childcare in Pembina is generally lower than the North Dakota state average due to the rural setting, but prices vary by provider type and the child's age. For a full-time spot in a licensed family child care home, you might expect to pay between $120 to $180 per week per child. Infant care is typically at the higher end of that range. Financial assistance is available through the North Dakota Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which is income-based. Eligibility is determined by the county social service office (Pembina County Social Services). Many families in the area qualify for some level of subsidy, which is paid directly to the licensed provider, significantly reducing out-of-pocket costs.
What are North Dakota's key licensing requirements for childcare providers that I should look for as a parent in Pembina?
As a parent, you should ensure any provider you consider is licensed by the ND Department of HHS. Key requirements that ensure safety and quality include: mandatory background checks for all adults in the home or center, ongoing training in areas like CPR/First Aid and Safe Sleep for infants, regular health and fire/safety inspections, and adherence to staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:7 for preschoolers in a family home). Licensed providers in Pembina will have their most recent inspection report available for you to review. You can also verify a provider's license status and check for any history of non-compliance through the state's online Child Care Finder portal.
Given Pembina's small size and proximity to Canada, are there unique considerations for childcare, such as care for shift workers or border commuters?
Yes, Pembina's context creates specific needs. First, flexible hours can be a challenge. Many traditional providers operate on standard business hours (e.g., 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM). If you work non-traditional shifts (common in agriculture, healthcare, or for those commuting to jobs in Canada or at the border crossing), you will need to specifically seek out a provider who offers evening, overnight, or weekend care. These spots are extremely rare. Second, for border commuters, consistency is key. Ensure the provider's hours align perfectly with your crossing and commute times, accounting for potential border delays. Discuss backup plans for days when you might be significantly delayed. Networking with other local parents through community groups or Facebook can help identify providers who cater to these unique schedules.