Choosing care for your child is hard.
We are here to answer all your questions.
How long is the wait list?
Our wait list length is different for each program; we are licensed to care for 8 infants, 12 toddlers and 20 preschoolers. We have a higher number of applicants for our infant program. We recommend that once you find out you are expecting you complete a registration form and return it to the ECDC, to be placed on the waiting list. It is possible to be on the infant wait list for up to 16 months.
If you would like to enroll a toddler or preschooler, please complete a registration form and return it to the ECDC, once received you will be put on the waitlist.
Families on the waiting list will be notified once your child is eligible for enrollment. If your child ages out of the program originally registered for, you will be notified to see if you want your child to be moved to the next program age, without losing position on the wait list.
How do I complete enrollment forms?
To complete enrollment forms, please download and print the enrollment forms, once completed, please return to the ECDC. Our forms are located under the application procedure tab; please click here to be redirected.
How do I set up a tour?
In order to provide a safe and secure environment for all children, we can only permit visitors to enter the ECDC if the director accompanies you. Tours are available Tuesday-Thursday; tours are not scheduled during the children’s rest time, 12 noon to 2p.m. To request a tour please call 218-281-8285.
Can I visit my child at the ECDC?
Yes, we have an open door policy when it comes to parents visiting. We encourage all parents to visit the center when they can, with the exception of rest time, 12 noon to 2 p.m.
My preschooler won’t take a nap; will he/she still have to rest?
Yes, we encourage all children to rest during naptime even if they do not sleep. Your child is not required to remain on their cot after resting quietly for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, the child will be taken to the mudroom; where he/she will be provided with quiet activities to participate in until the remainder of children are awake.
Do I need to complete enrollment forms each year my child is enrolled?
Yes, we require every family to complete all enrollment forms each year, for each child enrolled. A $15 registration fee will be charged per child annually, for example if your child is enrolled September 2022, and you choose to enroll in summer care for the summer of 2023; you will not be charged another registration fee.
What types of meals will you be serving my child?
At the ECDC, we will provide three nutritious meals each day, (breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack) for children that follows the guidelines set by the USDA Child Care Food Program.
What do you do when it is too cold for children to go outside?
In the winter months, outside time is dependent on two factors, temperature and wind-chill. On days that it is determined to be too cold, the multipurpose room is used to promote large motor development.
Does the ECDC hire student employees in addition to full-time classroom teachers?
Yes, the ECDC also hires UMN Crookston students as childcare aids to assist teaching staff in the classroom. We have a variety of student employees’ at the ECDC who come from different majors and cultural backgrounds. Many of our students are education majors, such as Early Childhood Education, Early Childhood Education-Program Management, and Elementary Education. We also employ students who are focused in assortment of majors such as Business, Animal Science and many more. The variety of student employees’ interests and cultural backgrounds allows the ECDC to provide children with unique, diverse experiences, not only in education, but also in culture.