The Butler Center for Early Learning Will Provide Childcare to 72 Kids in Bismarck

Families in Bismarck, North Dakota, have a new childcare option supported by the University of Mary. The Butler Center for Early Learning opened in June 2025 and welcomed its first group of infants, toddlers, and children.

“Our primary challenge during the first few weeks was how new everything was,” says Jennifer Barry, Director at the Butler Center for Early Learning. “All staff members were new, and all the kids were getting dropped off at a new place. Instead of working with a few new children, everyone was starting fresh.”

This project was made possible by a $464,000 grant from the North Dakota Department of Commerce. The childcare shortage across the United States affects economic development in several ways. This investment supports families across Bismarck while creating valuable developmental experiences for kids.  

University of Mary Students Receive Hands-On Care Experience

The Butler Center is a unique childcare center in Bismarck because it is part of the university. Along with qualified staff, the school is supported by undergraduate students earning their early childhood education degrees. They will receive hands-on experience teaching kids and watching them grow in their earliest years.

Graduate students will also support the center. The nursing, physical therapy, and speech language departments will visit the Butler Center to meet the kids and evaluate any needs. They can also provide referrals to parents. This offers unparalleled care and allows for early intervention for kids who might need a little extra help.

“Research shows that 90% of the brain develops by age five,” says Barry. “Those first few years of life are critical to a child’s success.”

The Buterl Center's staff and students will do their best to create comfortable environments for children to explore and learn. This can help with child development and foster skills like curiosity that can guide kids throughout their lives. 

Everyone is Settling Into the New Care Environment

In the month since they opened, both the staff and children have fallen into their daily routines. Barry credits her dedicated staff for being flexible in their early days and working to create new processes that run smoothly. She is already starting to see how team members are building relationships across the center.

“I recently stopped by the infant room, and it was heartwarming to see the babies reaching out to one of my team members,” says Barry. “It’s amazing how quickly relationships form between a child and caregiver in a safe atmosphere.”

The center has capped enrollment for the summer to allow everyone to settle into the new environment. There are already waiting lists for infants and toddlers. There is currently space for kids ages three and up.  

Once the center is at full capacity, it will accommodate up to 72 kids. This is a significant increase in childcare access right in downtown Bismarck.  

Childcare is a Key Aspect of Economic Development

Access to childcare is essential for keeping people in the labor force, particularly women. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 94.9% of men with children under six are in the workforce, but only 68.3% of women. If parents cannot access childcare, one person must stay home, requiring them to put their career on hold.

Childcare costs are also prohibitive. Half of parents (51%) spend more than 20% of their household income on childcare. In some households, especially in lower-income areas, it makes financial sense for a parent to just stay home.

“We have great childhood programs in Bismarck-Mandan, but they can’t keep up with the demand,” says Barry. “It’s a great place with lots of jobs, but without high-quality childcare, parents can’t work, or they won’t feel comfortable working. It’s a necessary component of the workforce.”

Safe childcare options give parents peace of mind, which supports their mental health and prevents burnout.

Furthermore, access to childcare now is an investment in the future of North Dakota's economy. Researchers at the University of Michigan report, “Children who receive safe, engaging care with access to nutritious foods are more likely to have positive outcomes throughout childhood…as well as increased academic achievements and cognitive ability.”  

There are so many ways that childcare is tied to economic development, from future education outcomes to today’s women in the workforce. 

The Butler Center Makes Its Mark in North Dakota 

Childcare providers are an essential part of the community, from both economic and social perspectives. The Butler Center is just one example of a provider making a difference by opening up quality care options for local families. It has only been a month, but it has Made its Mark on Bismarck.  

Make Your Mark share resources for finding childcare and K-12 education options. Families can use this information to make sound decisions for their kids and feel comfortable sending them to school. From the first day of infant care to high school graduation, there’s a place for every student in Bismarck-Mandan.