The Best Daycare Centers in Steele, ND
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Steele. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Steele
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center is a highly-regarded childcare facility serving the Steele area from nearby Jamestown. They offer a comprehensive early childhood education program with a play-based learning approach that incorporates Creative Curriculum standards. The center features qualified early childhood educators with CPR and First Aid certifications, low child-to-teacher ratios, and secure entry systems. Their program includes daily developmental activities, nutritious meals and snacks, and age-appropriate learning centers. The facility maintains excellent safety records and provides regular parent communication through digital portfolios and daily reports.
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Growing Together Childcare Center
Independent
Growing Together Childcare Center provides high-quality early childhood education serving families in the Steele region. Their program emphasizes social-emotional development through structured play and hands-on learning experiences. The center features state-licensed teachers with early childhood degrees, modern security systems including keypad entry, and comprehensive background checks for all staff. Their curriculum focuses on kindergarten readiness with literacy development, STEM activities, and creative arts. The facility includes spacious indoor play areas and secure outdoor playgrounds with age-appropriate equipment.
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Kidder County Daycare
Independent
Kidder County Daycare is Steele's local childcare provider offering personalized care in a community-focused environment. This established center provides developmentally appropriate activities with a balanced approach to learning and play. Staff members hold early childhood credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The facility maintains small group sizes to ensure individual attention and features secure premises with monitored access. Their program includes meal service, regular developmental assessments, and strong parent partnerships. As the primary childcare option within Steele, they serve as a vital community resource with deep local roots and understanding of rural family needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Steele, ND
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Steele, ND, and how do I find them?
In Steele, ND, licensed childcare options primarily include licensed family child care homes (operated in a provider's residence) and licensed child care centers. Due to Steele's small, rural population, family child care homes are often the most common and accessible option. To find licensed providers, the primary resource is North Dakota's Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Child Care Finder website. You can search specifically for Steele (Zip Code 58482) to see a list of currently licensed providers, their contact information, capacity, and any reported licensing history. Additionally, checking with the local school district or community bulletin boards at places like the Steele Cafe or City Hall can yield word-of-mouth recommendations for both licensed and legally license-exempt providers.
What is the typical cost for full-time childcare in Steele, and is there financial assistance available?
In Steele and the surrounding rural areas of Kidder County, full-time childcare costs are generally lower than state urban averages but can vary. For a licensed family child care home, you might expect to pay between $120 to $180 per week for an infant/toddler, and slightly less for preschool-aged children. A center-based program, if available, may be slightly higher. Financial assistance is available through the North Dakota Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which is income-based. Eligibility is determined by the county social service office. Given the agricultural and variable income nature of the region, families are encouraged to apply even if unsure of qualification. The Kidder County Social Services office, located in Steele, can provide application forms and guidance.
Are waitlists common for daycare in Steele, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common and can be lengthy due to the limited number of providers serving Steele and the surrounding rural community. It is not unusual for popular family child care homes or the limited center slots to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, especially for infant care. Parents are strongly advised to begin their search during pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before their needed start date. Contacting multiple providers to get on their lists is crucial. Be proactive and check in periodically, as spots can occasionally open up unexpectedly. Networking with other parents in the community is one of the best ways to hear about potential openings.
What are North Dakota's key licensing requirements for childcare providers that I should look for as a parent in Steele?
North Dakota HHS sets several key standards for licensed providers. As a parent, you should ensure a provider is currently licensed (you can verify this online). Key requirements include: background checks for all adults in the home or center, age-appropriate child-to-staff ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants), annual health and safety training, CPR/first aid certification, and compliance with safe sleep practices for infants. Providers must also have a program of developmental activities. In a small town like Steele, you can often get a personal feel for the environment. Don't hesitate to ask the provider directly about their license, training, daily schedule, and emergency plans. A reputable provider will be happy to share this information.
Given Steele's rural location, what options exist for before/after-school care for school-age children?
For school-age children attending Steele-Dawson School, the most common option is the school's own supervised program, if available. It's essential to contact the school district directly to inquire about any before/after-school care programs they operate. If the school does not offer this, some licensed family child care homes in Steele may offer before/after-school care and transportation to/from school. This is a critical service question to ask during your search. Another potential solution, common in close-knit communities, is forming a small, shared-care arrangement with other trusted families, though this would be a private, license-exempt arrangement. Always check the provider's ability to safely transport children if needed.