The Best Daycare Centers in Raleigh, ND
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Raleigh. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Raleigh
Raleigh Elementary School - Little Roughrider's Preschool
Raleigh Public School District
As the primary educational facility serving Raleigh, this school-based program offers high-quality early childhood education with certified teachers and a structured curriculum aligned with North Dakota early learning standards. The program focuses on school readiness through play-based learning, literacy development, and social skills. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, and the facility includes safe indoor and outdoor play areas. The integration with the elementary school provides a smooth transition to kindergarten.
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Dickinson Early Learning Center
Independent
Located approximately 30 miles from Raleigh, this highly-rated center serves families throughout southwestern North Dakota. The center features a comprehensive educational approach with age-appropriate curricula, qualified early childhood educators, and modern safety protocols. Programs include STEM activities, literacy development, and creative arts. The facility includes secure indoor learning environments and safe outdoor playgrounds. Parent communication is prioritized through daily updates and regular conferences.
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Little Miracles Childcare Center
Independent
Serving the Dickinson area and surrounding communities including Raleigh, this established center offers a nurturing environment with developmentally appropriate curriculum. The program emphasizes social-emotional development, cognitive skills, and physical growth through structured activities and free play. Staff includes experienced early childhood professionals with ongoing training requirements. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and comprehensive safety measures including secure entry systems and regular safety drills.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Raleigh, ND
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Raleigh, North Dakota, 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 Health and Human Services (HHS), Child Care Licensing Division. This includes family daycares, group homes, and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, and program activities. To verify a provider's license in the Raleigh area, you can use the state's online "Child Care Finder" tool on the ND HHS website, which shows current license status, any history of non-compliance, and inspection reports. You can also contact the Southeast Child Care Licensing office, which serves the region, directly for verification. Always ask to see the provider's current license during your visit.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Raleigh, ND, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to limited childcare options in smaller communities like Raleigh, waitlists can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for infant and toddler care. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. To improve your chances, contact all licensed providers in Raleigh and nearby towns (like nearby Linton or Strasburg), be flexible on start dates if possible, and check in periodically to express continued interest. Additionally, consider licensed family daycare homes, which may have shorter waitlists than larger centers.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Raleigh, and are there any state assistance programs to help with expenses?
In Raleigh and the surrounding rural areas of North Dakota, full-time childcare costs can vary. For a childcare center, you might expect an average of $600 to $800 per month for preschool-age children, with infant care being more expensive. Family daycare homes may offer slightly lower rates. Financial help is available through the North Dakota Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), administered by local county social services. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or education). Parents in Emmons County, where Raleigh is located, should apply through the Emmons County Social Services office to determine if they qualify for subsidies that significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Are there any unique seasonal or agricultural considerations for childcare schedules in Raleigh, ND?
Yes, as a community in a predominantly agricultural region, childcare needs in Raleigh can be influenced by farming seasons. During peak planting (spring) and harvest (fall) seasons, parents working in agriculture may require extended or irregular hours, including very early mornings or evenings. Some local in-home providers may offer more flexible schedules to accommodate these needs, but it's not guaranteed. It's crucial to discuss your specific seasonal schedule requirements upfront with any potential provider. Additionally, some summer programs may have more availability when older children are out of school, but planning ahead is key due to overall limited capacity.
What resources are available in Raleigh, ND, to help me find and evaluate quality childcare options?
The primary resource is Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) services provided by the statewide agency, Child Care Aware® of North Dakota. They offer free, personalized referrals to licensed providers in the Raleigh area and can help you understand quality indicators. You can contact them via their website or toll-free number. Additionally, the Emmons County Public Health office may have local information. When evaluating, use North Dakota's quality rating system, "Bright & Early ND," which awards stars to programs that exceed minimum licensing standards. Also, talk to other local parents for personal recommendations and visit potential providers to observe the environment, ask about staff turnover, and review their policies.