Name: 2026 NDCCPI Fall Conference
Start: 2026-10-10
End: 2026-10-10

Frieds Family Restaurant, located at 1010 Boundary Street Northwest in Mandan, ND, offers a warm and inviting culinary experience right in the heart of the community. Known for its comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, Frieds is a perfect dining destination for both locals and visitors seeking hearty, homestyle meals. With a rich menu that caters to a variety of tastes, the restaurant specializes in traditional American cuisine, serving dishes that are prepared with care and attention to detail.

Whether you're stopping by for a satisfying breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or a cozy dinner, Frieds Family Restaurant is committed to delivering quality food and exceptional service. This dining spot prides itself on being family-friendly, making it an ideal choice for gatherings with loved ones of all ages. Guests are often drawn to its friendly staff and the inviting charm that comes with a meal shared among family and friends.

Perfect for those looking to enjoy classic dishes in a relaxed setting, Frieds Family Restaurant continues to be a popular choice for both residents and travelers eager to experience the flavors of American home cooking. Visit Frieds and savor a delightful meal that feels just like a comforting Sunday dinner at home. 

Frieds Family Restaurant

Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee is a beloved Mandan favorite known for its signature waffles, artisan coffee, and warm, community-centered atmosphere. As a family-owned café with deep local roots, Copper Dog brings together high-quality ingredients, friendly service, and a charming, cozy space that feels like a home away from home. Their menu is built around creative sweet and savory waffles made with North Dakota wheat and flour, offering both comfort-food classics and fun, modern twists. Guests can enjoy everything from indulgent treats like s’mores or cinnamon roll waffles to savory options like biscuits and gravy, chicken and waffles, and their popular hashbrown-based creations. Seasonal specials and rotating flavors keep the menu fresh and encourage return visits, while a full lineup of locally roasted coffees, cold brews, and espresso drinks pairs perfectly with every waffle.

The atmosphere at Copper Dog is one of its biggest draws. The café is designed to be warm, inviting, and memorable—ideal for relaxed mornings, coffee dates, or catching up with friends. It’s also a uniquely versatile space, offering a mini gym and party room for events, meetings, or birthday celebrations. For athletes and families, Copper Dog stands out even more with The Cage, its private batting-cage facility available for hourly rentals or training sessions. Throughout the year, the café stays actively involved in the Mandan community, hosting fundraisers, supporting youth sports, offering catering with their mobile waffle trailer, and participating in city events such as the annual Mandan holiday lights celebration.

What truly sets Copper Dog apart is how deeply it is woven into the fabric of Mandan. With its family story, local sourcing, commitment to downtown revitalization, and genuine focus on community connection, Copper Dog is more than a café—it’s a gathering place. Whether you’re stopping in for breakfast, grabbing a latte on the go, hosting an event, or joining in on seasonal activities, Copper Dog offers an experience that feels authentically local and unmistakably special to Mandan.

Copper Dog Cafe

Free Any Size Coffee With Waffle Purchase

Balancing Goat Coffee Co. is a specialty coffee shop and roastery that brings heart and intentional balance to the Mandan community. They roast their own single-origin beans on-site, offering a rotating selection of coffees brewed with care — from espresso and lattes to cold brew and nitro.

But they’re not just about the beans. Their menu features made‑to‑order breakfast and lunch items including wraps, salads, sandwiches, and hearty favorites like avocado toast, oatmeal bowls, and protein-packed quinoa bowls. For a sweet treat, you’ll also find freshly baked pastries, cookies, muffins, and yogurt parfaits. Their drink lineup includes more than coffee, too — think fruit smoothies, matcha, chai, tea, Italian sodas, and even coffee floats.

The atmosphere at Balancing Goat is warm and welcoming, making it a go-to for anyone who wants to relax, catch up with friends, or get some work done. Their mission is built around balance — fueling your body and soul in a space that feels like a second home.

What really makes Balancing Goat special is how deeply they care about community. They partner with local farms for produce and honey, support fellow small businesses, and source ingredients locally whenever possible. Whether you’re grabbing a quick drive-through cup or settling in for a slow morning with a smoothie bowl, you’ll feel the thoughtful intentionality behind every drink and dish.

Balancing Goat Coffee Co.

Discover a warm and welcoming dining experience at Seven Seas Bar & Grill, located at 2611 Old Red Trail in Mandan, ND. Our establishment is known for its inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for locals and travelers alike. Whether you're stopping by for a hearty meal or just unwinding with a drink, Seven Seas offers a diverse menu designed to cater to a variety of tastes.

Our offerings include a selection of classic American dishes, ensuring there's something for everyone. From succulent steaks to fresh seafood, our menu is crafted to satisfy even the most discerning palate. The bar features a wide array of beverages, offering everything from local craft beers to well-curated cocktails that perfectly complement any meal.

Seven Seas Bar & Grill is perfect for both solo diners and larger gatherings, with ample seating and a friendly staff ready to provide attentive service. It's a great spot for a casual lunch, an after-work drink, or a cozy dinner. Conveniently located in Mandan, the venue is a popular choice among both residents and visitors looking for a taste of local hospitality and flavor.

Join us at Seven Seas Bar & Grill, where good food, great company, and a welcoming environment come together to create an unforgettable dining experience. 

Seven Seas Bar & Grill

Nestled in the heart of Mandan, North Dakota, Therapy Retreat offers a sanctuary for those seeking to rejuvenate both body and mind. Conveniently located at 2610 Old Red Trail, this serene haven provides a range of therapeutic services designed to promote relaxation and well-being. Catering to individuals looking for a stress-relief escape, Therapy Retreat specializes in massage therapy and holistic treatments, all tailored to meet the specific needs of each client.

The tranquil atmosphere of the spa is perfect for anyone—from busy professionals needing a moment of calm, to locals wanting to treat themselves to a day of self-care, and even travelers passing through who aim to unwind. Visitors can expect personalized attention in a calming environment where highly trained therapists utilize their skills to ensure a soothing experience.

What sets Therapy Retreat apart is its commitment to individualized care and the expert knowledge of its practitioners, ensuring everyone leaves feeling refreshed and revitalized. Whether you are seeking relief from daily stress or simply wish to pamper yourself, this is the ideal place to experience a moment of peace.

Those interested in visiting are encouraged to reach out and schedule an appointment to guarantee their spot in this oasis of relaxation. Therapy Retreat in Mandan is not just a place to escape but a destination to recharge, providing a harmonious blend of relaxation and therapeutic excellence. 

Therapy Retreat

Discover The Innovation Barn, an inspiring hub for creativity and innovation located at 2905 Jude Ln NW in Mandan, ND. This unique facility offers a dynamic space where minds of all ages can explore, create, and collaborate. The Innovation Barn provides an ideal environment for workshops, events, and activities designed to spark imagination and foster learning. Its flexible setup caters to a wide range of purposes, from educational programs to team-building exercises, making it perfect for individuals, families, and groups seeking a place to expand their horizons.

Whether you are a local looking to explore new interests or a visitor eager to engage with the community, The Innovation Barn welcomes everyone interested in learning and personal growth. The barn's rustic charm yet modern design creates an inviting atmosphere that encourages participants to delve into diverse subjects, from arts and crafts to science and technology. 

While I can't specifically confirm features like being kid or pet-friendly, The Innovation Barn's focus on inclusive and engaging experiences makes it an appealing destination for those eager to learn and connect. For those in pursuit of unique and enriching experiences in Mandan, The Innovation Barn undoubtedly offers a space where creativity and innovation thrive. 

The Innovation Barn

iGEAR, located at 3201 Nygren Drive NW in Mandan, is a standout destination for custom-branded gear, corporate apparel, and promotional products tailored to businesses, schools, and organizations across North Dakota. What sets iGEAR apart is its cooperative-based model, which ensures high-quality products at competitive pricing, along with a deep focus on customer service and craftsmanship. Their in-house team manages everything from screen printing and embroidery to product design, giving clients a seamless and efficient experience from concept to completion.

iGEAR specializes in flame-resistant workwear, logoed apparel, drinkware, bags, writing instruments, tech accessories, and more—making it easy to outfit teams, promote events, or elevate corporate identity. They’re also known for their innovative approach to branded merchandise, offering eco-friendly options, wellness-focused products, and trend-driven items that help organizations stand out.

Another unique advantage is their commitment to customization and collaboration. Whether you're launching a new brand, planning an employee recognition program, or preparing for a major event, iGEAR’s expert staff works closely with clients to create pieces that truly represent their mission and values. With exceptional quality, a wide product selection, and a reputation for reliability, iGEAR remains a trusted partner for personalized branding solutions throughout the region.

I Gear

Discover a delightful dining experience at Cloverdale Food, nestled in the heart of Mandan, North Dakota. Conveniently located at 3017 34th St NW, this welcoming establishment offers a unique blend of high-quality meals and friendly service, making it a favored stop for both locals and visitors alike.

Cloverdale Food is renowned for its commitment to using premium ingredients, ensuring that every dish served is bursting with freshness and flavor. With a menu designed to cater to a diverse clientele, this eatery promises a satisfying experience for every palate. Whether you're a local resident seeking a cozy meal close to home or a traveler exploring the charms of Mandan, Cloverdale Food provides a welcoming atmosphere that ensures you’ll feel right at ease.

While specifics about menu items and dietary accommodations like vegan or gluten-sensitive options are not detailed, guests can expect an attentive service geared towards offering a pleasant dining experience for various preferences and needs. Ideal for casual lunches, friendly gatherings, or leisurely dinners, Cloverdale Food’s casual yet inviting environment makes it a delightful destination for anyone seeking a memorable meal in Mandan.

Visit Cloverdale Food to enjoy a hint of local charm, excellent service, and a dining experience that leaves a lasting impression. 

Cloverdale Food

Subway – fresh, made-to-order sandwiches, wraps, salads, and sides. Customize your favorite sub with quality ingredients for a quick, satisfying meal anytime.

Subway

North Dakota’s Gateway to Science is the state’s premier hands-on science center and a regional leader in STEM education, offering immersive exhibits, interactive learning, and innovative programming designed to inspire curiosity at every age. As a cornerstone for discovery, the center brings science to life through tactile, inquiry-based experiences that encourage visitors to experiment, build, explore, and ask questions.

The museum features a wide range of permanent and rotating exhibits focused on themes central to North Dakota and the world: energy, water, weather, motion, health, and space. Galleries like Science First, Forces in Motion, Water Play, and Sun, Earth, Universe invite children and adults to engage directly with scientific principles through play, problem-solving, and hands-on challenges that support school learning while remaining fun and accessible.

A highlight of the center is its state-of-the-art planetarium dome, which offers immersive shows, live astronomy presentations, and captivating visual experiences that bring the cosmos closer than ever. The dome anchors a growing lineup of public programs, from family star shows to adult science nights.

Gateway to Science is also home to the Touchstone Energy Cooperative Innovation Space, a flexible environment designed for workshops, maker activities, community events, robotics challenges, and special programs that connect STEM learning to real industries—energy, engineering, agriculture, and beyond. This space supports large group engagement and provides opportunities for collaborative learning and creativity.

Education extends well beyond the museum walls through summer camps, after-school clubs, preschool programs, and teacher development opportunities. The Gateway to Science on the Go outreach program brings portable STEM experiences directly to schools and communities across the state, ensuring hands-on science remains accessible to rural and urban learners alike.

Located at 1600 Canary Avenue in Bismarck, the center offers memberships, field trip and group reservations, birthday parties, special events, and facility rentals. Overlooking the Missouri River, it also includes indoor and outdoor areas ideal for educational gatherings and community activities.

Why visit? Gateway to Science blends museum-quality exhibits with real-world science, offering a dynamic destination for families, teachers, youth groups, tourists, and lifelong learners. With its interactive galleries, immersive planetarium, dedicated maker spaces, and statewide outreach, it stands as North Dakota’s essential hub for exploration, discovery, and STEM education.

North Dakota's Gateway to Science

Show this bar code when you purchase one adult admission and get a child admission free!

We offer engaging, hands-on STEM learning experiences for all ages in our gallery and exhibits

North Dakota might surprise you—and that’s the point. For many, Bismarck-Mandan is a first-time destination, and it delivers far more than just another box to check. Here, you’ll find one-of-a-kind attractions and off-site venues that take events and meetings beyond the fields, courses and four walls and into unforgettable experiences.

Plenty of cities have facilities. What sets us apart? The extra. From history, culture and arts to outdoor adventure, dining and shopping, Bismarck-Mandan has it all—right on the Missouri River and surrounded by rolling hills.

As North Dakota’s capital, we combine professional infrastructure with authentic hospitality and a central location that’s easy to reach by road or air. Add in access to key industry sites, walkable downtowns and built-in pre- and post-conference adventures and you’ve got a destination that works hard—and plays even harder.

Bismarck-Mandan Convention & Visitors Bureau

### 2026 NDCCPI Fall Conference

**Connection, Communication, and Resilience in Early Childhood Care**

Join early childhood professionals from across North Dakota for a day of inspiration, learning, and meaningful connections at the **2026 NDCCPI Fall Conference**!

This year's conference focuses on **Connection, Communication, and Resilience in Early Childhood Care**, providing practical strategies and fresh perspectives to strengthen relationships with children, families, and fellow educators while building resilience in today's early learning environments.

Hear from two outstanding presenters:

* **Kelli Odden** – Morning Keynote Speaker (8:30 AM – 11:30 AM)
* **Lena Scullard** – Afternoon Keynote Speaker (12:30 PM – 3:30 PM)

Enjoy a full day of professional development that includes:

* Registration & Continental Breakfast
* NDCCPI General Meeting
* Two engaging keynote sessions
* Lunch
* Networking with early childhood professionals from across the state

**Event Details**
📅 **Saturday, October 10, 2026**
📍 **Baymont Inn & Suites**
2611 Old Red Trail, Mandan, ND 58554

**Schedule**

* **7:30 AM** – Registration & Breakfast
* **8:00 AM** – General Meeting
* **8:30–11:30 AM** – Kelli Odden
* **11:30 AM–12:30 PM** – Lunch
* **12:30–3:30 PM** – Lena Scullard

A block of rooms has been reserved at the Baymont Inn & Suites for **Friday and Saturday nights** at a special conference rate of **$119 per night**. To reserve your room, call **701-663-7401** and mention the **NDCCPI Fall Conference**. Additional lodging is also available at the Ramada.

Whether you're a teacher, director, administrator, family child care provider, or early childhood advocate, this conference is designed to leave you encouraged, equipped, and connected with colleagues who share your passion for serving young children and families.

**Together, we support and strengthen North Dakota's children and families.** We look forward to seeing you in Mandan this October!

2026 NDCCPI Fall Conference

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