The Best Daycare Centers in Shields, ND
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Shields. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Shields
KinderCare Learning Center - Fargo South
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare Learning Center in Fargo South offers a nationally accredited early childhood education program with a research-based curriculum focused on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. Their teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and participate in ongoing professional development. The center features secure keypad entry, age-appropriate indoor and outdoor play areas, and a nutrition program that meets USDA guidelines. Parents appreciate the consistent communication through daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences, contributing to high satisfaction rates. The center serves families across the Fargo-Moorhead metro area, including Shields residents.
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Primrose School of Fargo
Primrose Schools Franchising Company
Primrose School of Fargo provides a balanced learning approach through their exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum, blending teacher-directed and child-initiated activities to foster curiosity, creativity, and confidence. The school employs degreed early childhood educators and maintains low student-to-teacher ratios for personalized attention. Safety features include secured perimeters, comprehensive background checks for staff, and health protocols. The facility includes dedicated learning studios, a commercial kitchen for healthy meals, and outdoor exploration spaces. Known for strong parent partnerships and character development programs, it serves the broader Cass County region, including Shields.
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The Goddard School of Fargo
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Fargo emphasizes a play-based learning environment guided by the F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program, which promotes academic, social, and physical development through hands-on activities. All lead teachers have bachelor's degrees in education or related fields, and the school maintains rigorous safety standards with electronic entry systems and emergency preparedness drills. The campus features modern classrooms, interactive technology, and outdoor play areas designed for different age groups. Parents value the school's focus on individual growth tracking and flexible scheduling options, making it a popular choice for families in and around Shields.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Shields, ND
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Shields, ND, and how can I verify a provider's license?
In Shields, 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 Program. This includes family child care homes and child care centers. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, and program activities. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the "Find Child Care" search tool on the North Dakota HHS website, which lists all licensed and registered providers, their inspection history, and any licensing actions. For very small in-home providers (caring for five or fewer children), registration is an option, but it's crucial to ask any potential provider about their specific licensing or registration status to ensure they are operating legally and meeting state standards.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in and around Shields, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the limited number of dedicated childcare facilities in a smaller community like Shields, waitlists can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for infant care. It is highly recommended that parents begin their search during pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before their needed start date. Many families in the area also utilize licensed family child care homes in Shields or neighboring towns like Fargo or West Fargo, which may have slightly shorter but still considerable wait times. Contacting providers directly to get on their interest list as early as possible is the best strategy. Being flexible with your start date can also improve your chances of securing a spot.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Shields, and are there any local or state financial assistance programs available?
The average cost for full-time childcare in the Shields area typically ranges from $700 to $1,100 per month for a preschool-aged child, with infant care being at the higher end of that scale. These costs are generally in line with the broader Cass County region. Financial assistance is primarily available through the state's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), administered by North Dakota HHS. Eligibility is based on family income, size, and need (such as employment or education). Parents in Shields apply through their local Cass County Social Services office. Additionally, some providers may offer sibling discounts, and the federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit can provide relief at tax time.
Are there any unique childcare options or programs in Shields that cater to agricultural families or non-standard work hours?
Given Shields' rural setting within a major agricultural region, finding childcare for non-standard hours (early mornings, evenings, weekends, or during seasonal harvest times) is a common challenge. While there are no dedicated 24-hour centers in Shields itself, some licensed family child care providers may offer flexible or part-time schedules to accommodate shift workers or farm families. Your best bet is to inquire directly with providers about their willingness to accommodate atypical hours. Networking within local community groups, churches, or agricultural cooperatives can also help identify potential in-home caregivers who understand the demands of farm life. For more structured options, you may need to look toward larger employers or hospitals in nearby Fargo, which sometimes offer affiliated childcare with extended hours.
What resources are available in Shields to help me evaluate the quality and safety of a potential daycare?
Beyond verifying state licensing, parents in Shields have several key resources. First, the North Dakota HHS website provides public access to a provider's licensing file, including inspection reports and any non-compliance citations. Second, you can contact the Child Care Resource and Referral agency for Southeast North Dakota (a service of Lakes & Prairies Community Action Partnership). They offer free referrals, quality information, and can guide you on what to look for during a visit. When touring a facility, ask about staff turnover, emergency procedures, their sick child policy, and the daily curriculum. In a small community, personal recommendations from other parents at local spots like the Shields Community Center or the school are invaluable for insights into a provider's reputation and day-to-day environment.