The Best Daycare Centers in Oakland, FL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Oakland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Oakland
Kid City USA
Kid City USA
Kid City USA provides a comprehensive educational program with a play-based learning approach that emphasizes social, emotional, and academic development. Their curriculum includes STEM activities, literacy development, and creative arts. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and certified teachers with early childhood education credentials. They maintain low teacher-to-child ratios and offer nutritious meals and snacks. Parent communication is prioritized through daily reports and a dedicated app.
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The Learning Experience - Winter Garden
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience offers a proprietary L.E.A.P. curriculum that focuses on early literacy, mathematics, and social skills development. Their program includes specialized enrichment classes in yoga, music, and foreign language. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including biometric entry, live streaming for parents, and emergency notification systems. All lead teachers hold early childhood credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. The facility includes multiple playgrounds, dedicated learning centers, and a commercial kitchen providing healthy meals.
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Primrose School of Ocoee
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Ocoee implements the Balanced Learning approach, combining teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a focus on character development and academics. Their curriculum includes literacy development, mathematics, science, and social studies integrated with arts and physical education. The school maintains rigorous safety protocols including secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. All teachers are trained in early childhood development and the Primrose curriculum. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, multiple outdoor play areas, and dedicated spaces for music and movement.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Oakland, FL
What are the licensing requirements for daycare centers in Oakland, Florida, and how can I verify a provider's status?
In Oakland, Florida, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). This includes family daycare homes and larger centers. Licensing ensures compliance with state standards for staff-to-child ratios, background checks, health and safety protocols, and facility inspections. To verify a provider's status, you can use the DCF's "Child Care Facility Search" tool online. Simply enter the provider's name or location to view their license status, inspection reports, and any history of violations. It's a crucial first step for any parent in the Oakland area to ensure their child is in a regulated and safe environment.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Oakland, FL, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Oakland and the surrounding West Orange County area, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from $900 to $1,300 per month. For toddlers, costs are slightly lower, averaging between $800 and $1,150 monthly. Prices can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum, and staff credentials. For financial assistance, Florida's School Readiness Program is a key resource. Administered locally by the Early Learning Coalition of Orange County, this program offers sliding-scale subsidies to eligible families based on income, work, or school attendance. Oakland residents should contact the Coalition directly to apply and determine their eligibility.
How long are typical waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Oakland, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to high demand in the growing Oakland/Winter Garden area, waitlists for well-regarded daycare centers, especially for infant rooms, can be 6 to 12 months long. It's highly recommended to begin your search and get on multiple lists during pregnancy or as early as possible. When contacting centers, ask specific questions about their list: Is there a fee to join? How often do they update it? Do they offer priority for siblings? To improve your chances, consider expanding your search to nearby communities like Winter Garden or Windermere, and be prepared to be flexible with your start date. Staying in regular, polite contact with the centers can also help keep your application top of mind.
What are the options for before and after-school care for school-age children in Oakland, FL?
Oakland families with school-age children have several options. Many local elementary schools, including those in the Orange County Public Schools district that serve Oakland residents, offer on-site SAC (School-Age Child Care) programs. These are convenient and often cost-effective. Additionally, private daycare centers in the area frequently provide transportation to and from designated schools for their after-school programs. Other community options include the Oakland Avenue Charter School's extended day program or recreational programs offered through the Town of Oakland's Parks & Recreation department. It's important to inquire about registration timelines, as these programs can also fill up quickly.
Are there any unique outdoor or enrichment-focused daycare programs available in the Oakland area?
Yes, Oakland's location in West Orange County offers access to several daycare programs that emphasize outdoor learning and enrichment. Some centers utilize local parks and nature trails for regular outdoor activities. Given the area's agricultural history, a few programs may incorporate garden-based learning where children help grow plants and vegetables. For specialized enrichment, you can find centers that include structured programs like soccer, music, or introductory Spanish as part of their weekly curriculum, often provided by visiting specialists. When touring facilities, ask about their daily outdoor time policy, field trip frequency to places like the Oakland Nature Preserve, and what enrichment activities are included in the tuition versus offered as an add-on.