The Best Daycare Centers in Regent, ND
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Regent. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Regent
Hettinger Head Start
Community Action Partnership
Hettinger Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education and development services to families in the Regent area. As part of the Community Action Partnership network, they offer evidence-based curriculum focused on school readiness, social-emotional development, and cognitive skills. Their qualified teachers hold early childhood certifications and maintain low student-teacher ratios. The program includes nutritious meals, health screenings, family support services, and transportation options. They emphasize inclusive education and serve children from diverse backgrounds with specialized support for children with disabilities.
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Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center serves families throughout southwestern North Dakota with a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum. Their certified early childhood educators implement Creative Curriculum with emphasis on literacy, math readiness, and social skills. The center features secure entry systems, comprehensive safety protocols, and modern learning environments with age-appropriate learning centers. They maintain excellent staff retention and low child-to-teacher ratios. The program includes organic meal options, outdoor playgrounds, and regular parent communication through digital portfolios and conferences.
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Dickinson Early Childhood Center
Dickinson Public Schools
Dickinson Early Childhood Center operates as part of the public school system, providing high-quality early education with certified teachers holding bachelor's degrees in early childhood education. Their research-based curriculum aligns with state early learning standards and emphasizes kindergarten readiness through structured academic preparation and social development. The facility includes purpose-built classrooms, specialized learning labs, and secure outdoor play areas. They offer comprehensive assessment and screening, individualized learning plans, and strong parent partnership programs. The center is known for its inclusive environment and specialized support services.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Regent, ND
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Regent, North Dakota, and how can I verify a provider'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 child care homes and child care centers. Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and background checks. In a smaller community like Regent, many providers may be licensed family homes. You can verify a provider's license status and view any compliance history for free through the NDDHS Child Care Finder website or by contacting the Southwest Child Care Resource & Referral agency, which serves the region. Always ask to see a provider's current license during your visit.
How long are daycare waitlists typically in Regent, ND, and what's the best strategy for securing a spot?
Due to limited options in a rural town like Regent, waitlists can be significant, often several months to over a year, especially for infant care. The best strategy is to plan as far in advance as possible—ideally during pregnancy. Contact all available licensed providers in Regent and nearby communities (like Mott or Hettinger) to get on multiple waitlists. Be proactive and check in every few months to express continued interest. Also, explore licensed family child care homes, which may have more flexible availability than a center. Networking with other local parents can sometimes lead to referrals for newly opening home-based spots.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare in Regent, and are there any financial assistance programs available to local families?
In Regent and surrounding rural areas of North Dakota, full-time daycare costs are generally lower than state urban averages but can vary. For a licensed family home, you might expect $120-$180 per week per child. Center-based care, if available, may be slightly higher. The primary financial assistance program is the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) administered by NDDHS, which provides subsidies to eligible low- and moderate-income families. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or education). You can apply through the Hettinger County Social Services office. Some providers may also offer sibling discounts.
Are there any part-time or non-traditional hour childcare options available in Regent for parents working shifts in agriculture or healthcare?
Finding childcare for non-standard hours (evenings, weekends, early mornings) is a common challenge in rural communities like Regent. Options are very limited. Your best bet is to inquire directly with licensed family child care providers, as they may offer more flexible, individualized schedules than a center. Some may accommodate shift workers in agriculture or for those commuting to healthcare jobs in Hettinger or Dickinson. Be prepared to discuss your specific schedule needs upfront. As a backup, building a network of trusted babysitters or exploring a nanny-share arrangement with another local family with similar needs can be a practical solution.
What should I look for during a daycare tour in a small town like Regent, and are there any local resources to help me evaluate options?
During a tour, observe the environment's safety and cleanliness, check for secure outdoor play areas, and note how staff interact with children. In a small community, also ask about their emergency plans for severe weather common to North Dakota. Inquire about their curriculum or daily activities and how they communicate with parents. A key local resource is the Southwest Child Care Resource & Referral (R&R), which can provide checklists for quality indicators and information on providers. They can be reached at 1-800-291-9750. Also, talk to other parents in the community for firsthand insights into a provider's reputation and reliability.