The Best Daycare Centers in Oxford, FL
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Oxford. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Oxford
The Learning Experience - Wildwood
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Wildwood is a highly-rated early education center serving the Oxford area with comprehensive developmental programs. They feature the proprietary L.E.A.P. curriculum (Learning Experience Academic Program) that incorporates phonics, foreign language, manners, and physical fitness. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios with qualified early childhood educators, secure facility access with surveillance systems, and age-appropriate learning environments. Their "Philanthropee" program teaches children the value of giving back to the community. The facility includes modern classrooms, indoor and outdoor play areas, and provides nutritious meals and snacks.
Daycare Services:
Primrose School of The Villages
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of The Villages offers a balanced learning approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance. Their exclusive Balanced Learning curriculum focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and creative arts. The school features highly qualified teachers with early childhood credentials, secure keypad entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. Classrooms are designed with learning centers that encourage exploration and discovery. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, music and movement spaces, and provides healthy meals prepared on-site. Parents consistently praise the school's communication and the developmental progress they observe in their children.
Daycare Services:
Kids 'R' Kids Learning Academy of Wildwood
Kids 'R' Kids International
Kids 'R' Kids of Wildwood provides advanced educational childcare with their exclusive Brain Development curriculum that emphasizes cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. The facility features interactive whiteboards in classrooms, secured entry systems, and live streaming cameras for parent viewing. Their STEAM-focused approach (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) begins in infant classrooms and progresses through school-age programs. The center maintains state-mandated teacher-to-child ratios with CPR/first-aid certified staff. The facility includes multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups, indoor gymnasium, and provides nutritious meals. Their "Hug First, Then Teach" philosophy creates a nurturing environment where children feel safe to learn and explore.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Oxford, FL
What are the licensing requirements for daycare centers in Oxford, Florida, and how can I verify a provider's status?
In Oxford, Florida, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). This includes family daycare homes, large family childcare homes, and childcare centers. Licensing ensures facilities meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and staff training. 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 compliance history. It's highly recommended to choose a licensed provider in Oxford, as this offers a baseline of regulatory oversight and accountability.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Oxford, FL, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Oxford and the surrounding Sumter County area, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from $150 to $200 per week. For toddlers, costs may be slightly lower, averaging $130 to $180 per week. These rates can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum, and staff credentials. For financial assistance, Florida's School Readiness Program is the primary resource. This state-funded program helps eligible low-income working families pay for childcare. Applications are managed locally through the Early Learning Coalition of Sumter County. Additionally, some centers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Oxford, and what strategies can I use to secure a spot for my child?
Yes, due to Oxford's growth and limited number of providers, waitlists for infant and toddler rooms at highly-rated centers are common and can be several months long. To secure a spot, start your search early—ideally during pregnancy or 6-9 months before your needed start date. Contact multiple centers to get on their waitlists, even if they are not your top choice. Be proactive and follow up every 4-6 weeks to express continued interest. Consider expanding your search to nearby communities like Wildwood or The Villages, which may have more options. Some centers may also give priority to siblings of current enrollees or employees of local businesses.
What are the typical operating hours for daycare centers in Oxford, and are there options for parents with non-traditional work schedules?
Most traditional daycare centers in Oxford operate on a standard schedule, typically from around 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday. However, options for evenings, weekends, or overnight care are extremely limited in this specific area. For parents with shift work, healthcare schedules, or other non-traditional hours, your best bet may be to seek out licensed family childcare homes, as some providers may offer more flexible hours by arrangement. Alternatively, you may need to look into private nanny shares or in-home caregivers, or explore options in larger neighboring cities like Leesburg or Ocala, which might have 24-hour facilities.
How does the local environment in Oxford, FL, influence daycare programs and outdoor activities for children?
Oxford's semi-rural setting in Central Florida significantly influences daycare programs. Many centers emphasize outdoor play and nature-based learning, taking advantage of the generally warm climate. However, programs must also plan for intense summer heat, frequent afternoon thunderstorms, and occasional hurricane threats. Reputable centers will have shaded play areas, strict sun safety protocols (including sunscreen application), and structured water play to keep children cool. They should also have clear emergency preparedness plans for severe weather, including safe rooms and communication procedures for parents. Given the area's natural surroundings, some programs may incorporate local flora and fauna into their curriculum, but parents should inquire about pest control measures for mosquitoes and fire ants in outdoor spaces.