The Best Daycare Centers in Oxford, AR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Oxford. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Oxford
KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education
KinderCare Learning Center in Batesville is a highly-regarded childcare facility serving the Oxford area with a play-based curriculum that emphasizes social, emotional, and physical development. The center features certified teachers with ongoing training, low child-to-teacher ratios, and a safe, nurturing environment. Programs include age-appropriate activities for infants through school-age children, with a focus on literacy, math, and science through hands-on learning. Safety protocols include secured entryways, regular drills, and clean, modern facilities. Parent communication is prioritized through daily updates and family engagement events, contributing to high parent satisfaction and a strong track record in early childhood education.
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The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Jonesboro offers a premier early childhood education program serving families in the Oxford region with its FLEX Learning Program, which blends academic readiness with play-based activities. Staffed by qualified educators with degrees in early childhood development, the school maintains low student-teacher ratios and a safe, inclusive environment. The curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, and character development, supported by modern classrooms and outdoor play areas. Safety measures include keypad entry, health screenings, and nutritious meal programs. High parent satisfaction stems from transparent communication and a commitment to individualized learning paths.
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Primrose School of Jonesboro
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Jonesboro provides a Balanced Learning® curriculum that integrates academic skills with character development and play, serving the Oxford area with a focus on whole-child growth. The facility boasts experienced, degreed teachers, low child-to-staff ratios, and a secure environment with controlled access and hygiene protocols. Programs include infant care through after-school options, emphasizing literacy, math, and social skills in well-equipped classrooms and outdoor spaces. Parent involvement is encouraged through regular updates and events, contributing to its reputation for excellence in safety, educational quality, and community engagement.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Oxford, AR
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Oxford, Arkansas, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Arkansas, all childcare centers and family childcare homes serving more than five children must be licensed by the Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education (DCCECE). Licensed providers in Oxford must meet specific standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training in CPR/First Aid), health and safety protocols, and facility requirements. To verify a provider's license and view any compliance history, you can use the free online "Check a Facility" tool on the Arkansas DCCECE website or contact the DCCECE licensing office directly. This is a crucial first step to ensure the daycare operates legally and meets state-mandated safety standards.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Oxford, AR, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Oxford and the surrounding Izard County area, full-time daycare for an infant can range from approximately $110 to $150 per week, while toddler care may be slightly less, around $100 to $130 per week. Costs can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and whether it is a center or a licensed home daycare. For financial assistance, Arkansas offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) for eligible families based on income, work, or school enrollment requirements. You can apply through the Department of Human Services (DHS) county office in Melbourne, which serves Izard County. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees.
Are there any licensed in-home daycare options in Oxford, and what are the benefits of choosing one over a larger center?
Yes, there are licensed family childcare home providers in Oxford and the rural areas of Izard County. These smaller, home-based settings typically care for a mixed-age group of up to 10-12 children, offering a more intimate, family-like environment. Benefits can include greater schedule flexibility, potentially lower costs, a consistent primary caregiver, and a setting that may feel more comfortable for young children. When considering an in-home provider in Oxford, it's essential to verify their state license, ask about their daily routine, emergency plans, and how they handle learning activities. Due to the rural nature of the area, in-home care can be a vital option where larger centers are less accessible.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in the Oxford area, and what can I do to secure a spot for my child?
Given that Oxford is a small, rural community, there are a limited number of licensed daycare facilities. Waitlists can vary but are common, especially for infant care, and can range from a few weeks to several months. To secure a spot, it is highly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. Contact providers directly to inquire about their current availability and waitlist procedures. Be prepared to provide a deposit in some cases. Also, consider expanding your search to nearby towns like Melbourne or Calico Rock, but factor in the added commute time.
What types of early learning programs or preschool curricula are available at daycares in Oxford, AR?
Many licensed daycare providers in Oxford incorporate early learning into their daily schedules. Programs often follow a play-based learning approach, but some may use structured curricula like the Arkansas Better Beginnings framework, which focuses on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development appropriate for young children. Given the community's size, specialized programs like Montessori are less common locally and would likely require travel to a larger city. When touring a facility, ask about their daily lesson plans, how they track developmental milestones, and if they participate in Arkansas's voluntary quality rating system, Better Beginnings, which indicates a higher level of educational commitment.