The Best Daycare Centers in Towner, ND
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Towner. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Towner
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center is Towner's premier childcare facility offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. The center features a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates literacy, math, science, and social skills development. Their qualified early childhood educators maintain low teacher-to-child ratios, ensuring personalized attention. The facility includes secure indoor learning environments with age-appropriate learning centers and safe outdoor play areas. They provide nutritious meals and snacks following USDA guidelines and emphasize parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences. Their program focuses on school readiness while maintaining a nurturing, home-like atmosphere.
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Little Lambs Preschool & Childcare
Independent
Located in nearby Rugby (approximately 20 miles from Towner), Little Lambs serves families throughout Pierce and McHenry counties. This faith-based childcare center offers a structured early learning program that balances academic preparation with Christian values. Their curriculum includes phonics-based reading readiness, hands-on math activities, and social-emotional development. The center features modern security systems, certified early childhood teachers, and developmentally appropriate learning materials. They maintain excellent staff retention rates and provide transportation services for school-age children. Parents appreciate their comprehensive communication system and flexible scheduling options.
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Rugby Early Childhood Center
Independent
Rugby Early Childhood Center is a well-established facility serving families throughout the region, including Towner residents. The center offers a comprehensive educational program based on Creative Curriculum with STEAM integration. Their qualified teaching staff includes certified early childhood educators who provide individualized learning experiences. The facility features secure entry systems, modern classroom environments, and extensive outdoor learning spaces. They focus on developmental milestones tracking and provide detailed progress reports to parents. The center maintains excellent state licensing compliance records and offers nutritional meal programs. Their extended hours and reliable transportation make them accessible to working families from surrounding communities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Towner, ND
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Towner, ND, and how do I find them?
In Towner, ND, licensed childcare options primarily consist of Family Child Care (FCC) homes and potentially a licensed Group Child Care center, though availability can be limited in smaller communities. Family Child Care providers operate out of their own homes and are licensed by the North Dakota Department of Human Services (NDDHS) to care for a smaller number of children, often providing a more home-like setting. To find licensed providers, your best resource is the North Dakota Child Care Finder website and database, managed by the state. You can filter searches by Towner and license type. Additionally, contacting the Towner County Social Services office or asking for local referrals through community boards, churches, or the Towner school district can help identify both licensed and legally license-exempt options.
What is the typical cost for full-time daycare in Towner, and are there any financial assistance programs for parents?
Childcare costs in Towner are generally lower than state and national averages, but exact rates vary by provider and the age of your child. For a full-time slot in a Family Child Care home, you might expect to pay between $120 to $180 per week per child. Costs for an infant are typically at the higher end of that range. It's crucial to ask providers for their specific rate sheets. For financial assistance, North Dakota offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which is income-based and can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs for eligible families. You apply through the Towner County Social Services office. Also, check if your employer offers a Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA), and be aware of the federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit when filing your taxes.
How long are waitlists for daycare in Towner, and what can I do to secure a spot for my infant?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small community like Towner, waitlists for infant care can be substantial, often several months to over a year. Infant spots are the most challenging to secure due to stricter staff-to-child ratios. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy. Contact every licensed provider in and around Towner to get on their lists as early as possible. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee. Broaden your search to include providers in nearby towns like Rugby or Minot, though this adds commute time. Consider forming a nanny-share with another local family as an alternative, and stay in regular, polite contact with providers to express your continued interest.
What are North Dakota's key licensing requirements for daycare providers that I should verify as a parent in Towner?
As a parent, you should ensure any provider you consider is either licensed or legally license-exempt (like certain relatives). Key North Dakota licensing standards include: 1) **Staff-to-Child Ratios and Group Sizes:** For infants (0-24 months), the ratio is 1:4. For 2-year-olds, it's 1:6. 2) **Background Checks:** All staff and adults in the home must pass comprehensive criminal history and child abuse and neglect checks. 3) **Health and Safety:** Providers must have training in CPR, First Aid, and Safe Sleep practices for infants. Their home or facility must pass fire, health, and safety inspections. 4) **Training:** Providers must complete annual training in child development and health/safety topics. You can ask to see the provider's current license, which is issued by the NDDHS, and verify its status online.
Are there any part-time, drop-in, or after-school childcare options available for school-age children in Towner?
Structured part-time or drop-in daycare options are extremely rare in Towner due to the scale of the community. For school-age children, the primary organized option is likely the after-school program operated by the Towner Public School District. These programs typically provide care from school dismissal until early evening on school days and may offer activities, homework help, and snacks. Availability may be limited, so contact the school office directly. For true drop-in or irregular care needs, your best bet is to network with other parents for babysitting swaps or to find a trusted, licensed Family Child Care provider who may have occasional flexibility. Some providers might offer care on school in-service days or during summer breaks.