The Best Daycare Centers in Portland, ND
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Portland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Portland
Little Sprouts Daycare
Independent Center
Little Sprouts Daycare is Portland's primary local childcare provider, offering comprehensive care for children from infancy through school age. The center operates from a renovated historic building on Main Street with secure access and monitored facilities. Their educational approach emphasizes play-based learning with structured activities that promote social, emotional, and cognitive development. Staff members are CPR and First Aid certified with ongoing professional development. The facility features age-appropriate learning environments, outdoor play areas, and provides nutritious meals and snacks. What makes Little Sprouts stand out is their strong community integration and personalized attention with low child-to-teacher ratios, making them a trusted local option for Portland families.
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Kiddie Korner Child Care Center
Independent Center
Located in nearby Grafton (approximately 15 miles from Portland), Kiddie Korner Child Care Center serves families throughout Walsh County with their comprehensive early childhood programs. The center features a developmentally appropriate curriculum that balances structured learning with creative play. Their qualified teaching staff maintains low child-to-teacher ratios and follows state-licensed safety protocols. The facility includes separate infant and toddler rooms, dedicated preschool classrooms, and secure outdoor play spaces. Kiddie Korner is particularly noted for their literacy-focused approach and strong kindergarten readiness program, making them a popular choice for families seeking quality education combined with nurturing care.
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Valley Pre-School and Child Care
Independent Center
Valley Pre-School and Child Care in Mayville (approximately 20 miles from Portland) has built a strong reputation for excellence in early childhood education throughout the region. The center offers a comprehensive curriculum that incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and social skills building. Their experienced teaching staff includes early childhood education specialists who create individualized learning plans. The facility features modern security systems, commercial-grade kitchen for meal preparation, and age-specific learning environments with updated educational materials. Valley Pre-School stands out for their commitment to outdoor education and nature-based learning, with extensive outdoor play areas and garden projects that complement their academic programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Portland, ND
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Portland, ND, and how can I verify a facility's license?
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 daycares, group homes, and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and staff training. To verify a provider's license in the Portland area, you can use the "Child Care Finder" search tool on the NDDHS website. You can also contact the Southeast Regional Child Care Resource & Referral agency, which serves Traill County, for assistance. Always ask to see a provider's current license during your visit.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in and around Portland, ND, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to limited childcare options in smaller communities like Portland, waitlists can vary but are often several months long, especially for infant care. It's common for popular centers in nearby larger towns like Mayville or Hillsboro to also have significant waitlists. To secure a spot, we recommend contacting providers as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or 6-12 months before you need care. Get on multiple waitlists, including both centers and licensed family daycares. Follow up with providers every 2-3 months to express continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to neighboring communities within a reasonable commute.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare for an infant or toddler in Portland, ND?
Childcare costs in Portland and the surrounding Traill County area are generally lower than the national average but can vary based on the type of care. For a licensed family daycare, you might expect to pay between $120-$180 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. A childcare center in a nearby larger town may range from $150-$220 per week. These are estimates, and prices can change. It's important to ask about what's included (meals, diapers, etc.). Financial assistance may be available through the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families via Cass County Social Services, which administers the program for Traill County.
Are there any unique childcare options or programs in Portland, ND, that cater to agricultural families or non-traditional work hours?
Yes, given the agricultural nature of the region, some providers in the Portland area may offer more flexible hours to accommodate farming schedules, especially during planting and harvest seasons. While not universal, it's a key question to ask when interviewing providers. Additionally, some licensed family daycares may be more likely to offer early morning drop-off or later evening care. There are also a limited number of licensed providers who offer "drop-in" or part-time care, which can be helpful for variable schedules. The best approach is to clearly communicate your family's scheduling needs upfront when contacting local providers.
What resources are available in Portland, ND, to help me find and evaluate quality childcare?
The primary local resource is Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R), a state-funded service. For Portland, you would contact the Southeast Regional CCR&R, which covers Traill County. They maintain a database of licensed providers, offer referrals, and can provide guidance on what to look for in a quality program. They also inform parents about the ND Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS), called "Bright & Early ND," which voluntarily rates programs on quality. While few programs in very rural areas may be rated, it's a useful framework for evaluation. You can also connect with other parents through local community groups or churches for personal recommendations.