The Best Daycare Centers in Pillsbury, ND
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Pillsbury. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Pillsbury
Primrose School of Fargo
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Fargo offers a nationally accredited Balanced Learning® approach that combines teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a focus on character development. Their research-based curriculum includes literacy, math, science, social studies, and creative arts. Features include secure entry systems, highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials, nutritious meals prepared on-site, and age-appropriate outdoor learning environments. The school maintains low student-teacher ratios and provides regular developmental assessments and parent communication.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Fargo
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Fargo provides a play-based learning environment with F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that promotes social, emotional, and academic development. Their faculty includes degreed teachers who create individualized learning plans. The facility features secure keypad entry, multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups, and classroom technology integration. The curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, and creative arts while emphasizing safety protocols and health monitoring. Parents receive daily updates through the proprietary communication app.
Daycare Services:
Discovery Place Childcare & Preschool
Discovery Place Learning Centers
Discovery Place offers a comprehensive early childhood program with a curriculum that balances academic preparation and social-emotional development. Their approach includes hands-on learning centers, literacy-rich environments, and structured play. The center features secure facilities with surveillance systems, USDA-approved meal programs, and qualified teaching staff with ongoing professional development. Special programs include music and movement, Spanish language exposure, and nature-based learning. The center maintains strong parent partnerships through regular conferences and portfolio assessments.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Pillsbury, ND
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Pillsbury, ND, and how can I verify a provider is licensed?
In Pillsbury, as in all of North Dakota, childcare providers must be licensed by the North Dakota Department of Human Services (NDDHS) if they care for more than five children unrelated to them. Licensed providers must meet strict 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" tool on the NDDHS website. For very small, in-home care (fewer than six children), providers may be legally exempt from licensing but can choose to become registered. It's always recommended to ask for proof of license or registration and check their most recent inspection reports, which are public record.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers or in-home providers in Pillsbury, and when should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of providers in a smaller community like Pillsbury, waitlists can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for infant care slots. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as soon as you know you will need care, ideally during pregnancy. Many local providers maintain a single, ongoing waitlist. Be proactive: contact all available options in Pillsbury and the surrounding areas (like Fargo or other nearby towns if you commute), get on multiple lists, and check in every few months to update your information and express continued interest.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Pillsbury, ND, and are there any local or state assistance programs?
In Pillsbury and the surrounding region, average costs for full-time, licensed childcare typically range from $700 to $1,100 per month for a preschool-aged child. Infant care is often at the higher end of that range or slightly more due to lower staff-to-child ratios. The State of North Dakota offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families based on income, family size, and need. You apply through your local county social services office (Cass County). Additionally, some providers may offer sibling discounts. It's crucial to ask about all fees, including registration, supplies, and policies for late pickups or closures.
Are there any unique childcare options in Pillsbury, such as part-day preschools, faith-based programs, or employer-sponsored care?
Given Pillsbury's size, formal childcare options are limited, but parents often utilize a mix of solutions. There may be part-day preschool programs operated through local churches or community organizations. Many families in rural areas like ours rely on licensed family childcare homes, which offer a home-like setting and often more flexible hours. For employer-sponsored care, you would likely need to look in larger nearby employment centers like Fargo. Networking with other parents in Pillsbury through community groups or social media is one of the best ways to learn about smaller, in-home providers or potential nanny shares that may not be widely advertised.
What should I look for during a daycare tour in Pillsbury, and what questions are specific to a rural setting?
During a tour, observe cleanliness, child engagement, and staff interactions. Ask about their emergency plans, especially regarding severe weather common in North Dakota, and how they handle transportation or field trips given Pillsbury's rural location. Specifically, inquire about their plan for power outages or winter road closures, and how they communicate with parents if buses are delayed. Check the outdoor play space for safety and ask about their policy on outdoor time during cold months. Also, ask about their food program—do they provide meals, and if so, are they able to accommodate sourcing from local farms or gardens, which is common in our area? Finally, understand their sick policy and backup care options, as alternatives in a small town can be scarce.