The Best Daycare Centers in Sheldon, ND
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Sheldon. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Sheldon
Little Learners Daycare & Preschool
Independent Family-Owned Center
Little Learners Daycare & Preschool serves the Sheldon area from nearby Oakes with a comprehensive early childhood education program. The center features a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. All lead teachers hold Early Childhood Education credentials and maintain low teacher-to-child ratios. The facility includes secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and modern learning environments with natural lighting. Parents praise the consistent communication through daily reports and the center's focus on individualized attention for each child's developmental needs.
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Kiddie Korner Child Care Center
Independent Community Center
Kiddie Korner Child Care Center has been serving the Sheldon region for nearly two decades with a reputation for reliable, quality childcare. The center employs a balanced approach combining structured learning activities with creative free play. Their curriculum emphasizes early literacy, mathematics readiness, and social skills development. The staff includes certified Early Childhood professionals with extensive experience in child development. Safety features include secured premises, comprehensive background checks, and emergency preparedness protocols. The center is noted for its family-friendly atmosphere and flexible scheduling options for working parents.
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Tiny Treasures Learning Center
Regional Childcare Provider
Tiny Treasures Learning Center serves families throughout the region including Sheldon with a research-based educational approach. The center implements Creative Curriculum with focus areas in language development, cognitive skills, and physical coordination. Qualified teachers hold degrees in Early Childhood Education and participate in ongoing professional development. The facility features separate age-based classrooms, outdoor learning spaces, and nutritionally balanced meal programs. Parents consistently highlight the center's strong communication, developmental progress tracking, and the caring, stable teaching staff that maintains long-term relationships with families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Sheldon, ND
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Sheldon, North Dakota, and how can I verify a provider's status?
In Sheldon, 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 (in a home) and childcare centers. Licensed providers must meet state 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" search tool on the NDDHS website. This is a crucial step for parents in Sheldon, as it ensures the facility is regularly monitored and complies with North Dakota's specific regulations, which may differ from those in larger cities.
Given Sheldon's small size, what is the typical availability of childcare slots, and should I expect to join a waitlist?
Due to Sheldon's rural nature and limited population, the number of licensed childcare providers is small, often consisting of a few in-home family daycares. Availability is frequently very tight, and it is common for parents to encounter waitlists, especially for infants and toddlers. It is highly recommended to begin your search and make inquiries at least 6-12 months before you need care. Networking with other local parents through community groups or social media can also provide leads on potential openings or newly licensed providers in the area.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or preschooler in Sheldon, ND?
In Sheldon and the surrounding rural areas of North Dakota, childcare costs are generally lower than the state average, but availability heavily influences price. For a licensed family daycare, you might expect to pay approximately $120 to $180 per week for full-time care for one child. Costs for a preschool-aged child are slightly lower. These rates are estimates, and it's important to ask providers directly. Additionally, North Dakota offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for income-eligible families, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses. You can apply for CCAP through the Ransom County Social Services office, which serves the Sheldon area.
Are there any part-time, drop-in, or after-school childcare options available in Sheldon for school-aged children?
Structured part-time or drop-in childcare is extremely limited in Sheldon due to its size. There is no dedicated childcare center in town. For school-aged children, the primary option is often the school-based program, if offered by the local Sheldon Public School District. Parents should contact the school directly to inquire about any before or after-school care programs. For occasional needs, parents typically rely on informal networks, such as trusted neighbors, family members, or local babysitters. Planning ahead for this type of care is essential in a small community.
What local resources or organizations in Ransom County can help me find and evaluate childcare options near Sheldon?
The primary resource for parents in Sheldon is the **Ransom County Social Services** office, located in Lisbon (the county seat). They can provide information on licensed providers, the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), and other support services. Additionally, the **North Dakota Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R)** agency, which serves the region, is an invaluable free service. You can contact them via their statewide website or hotline; a referral specialist can help you search for openings in Sheldon and neighboring towns like Lisbon or Enderlin. Connecting with the **Sheldon Community Club** or local Facebook groups can also yield personal recommendations and insights from other parents.