The Best Daycare Centers in Oakman, GA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Oakman. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Oakman
Bright Horizons at Calhoun
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Calhoun offers a comprehensive early education curriculum focused on whole-child development. Their World at Their Fingers curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, literacy development, and STEM activities. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials, maintained low teacher-to-child ratios, and secure facility access with comprehensive safety protocols. They provide nutritious meals and snacks through their food program and maintain NAEYC accreditation standards. The center serves families throughout Gordon County, including Oakman residents.
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The Sunshine House Early Learning Academy of Calhoun
The Sunshine House
The Sunshine House in Calhoun provides a structured educational program with emphasis on school readiness and social-emotional development. Their Creative Curriculum incorporates literacy, mathematics, science, and arts while maintaining Gold Seal quality ratings. The facility features secure entry systems, CCTV monitoring, and trained staff in CPR/First Aid. Teachers hold CDA credentials or higher education degrees, and the center maintains excellent staff retention rates. Their comprehensive program includes Spanish language exposure, music activities, and outdoor learning environments designed for different age groups.
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Calhoun Academy of Kids
Independent
Calhoun Academy of Kids is a locally owned and operated childcare center known for its family-oriented approach and strong educational foundation. Their curriculum balances structured academic preparation with play-based learning, focusing on kindergarten readiness skills. The center features experienced lead teachers with an average of 8+ years tenure, small class sizes, and individualized learning plans. Safety measures include keypad entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, dedicated learning centers, and provides meals meeting nutritional guidelines. They serve families throughout Gordon County with flexible scheduling options.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Oakman, GA
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available for families in Oakman, GA?
In Oakman, which is in Gordon County, Georgia, parents primarily have access to two types of licensed childcare: Family Child Care Learning Homes (FCCLH) and Child Care Learning Centers. FCCLHs are smaller, home-based programs typically caring for a smaller group of children, which can offer a more intimate setting. Given Oakman's more rural setting, these home-based providers are common. Child Care Learning Centers are larger facilities, though you may need to look in nearby towns like Calhoun for more center-based options. All licensed providers in Georgia are regulated by the Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL), which ensures they meet standards for safety, curriculum, and staff qualifications. You can search for all licensed options in the Oakman area using DECAL's online "Quality Rated" search tool.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in the Oakman area?
Childcare costs in Oakman and the surrounding Gordon County area are generally more affordable than in Georgia's major metropolitan areas, but prices vary by provider type. For a licensed Family Child Care Learning Home in Oakman, you might expect to pay between $120 and $160 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. A center-based program in a nearby community like Calhoun could range from $140 to $180 per week. These rates are estimates, and it's crucial to ask providers directly for their current pricing. Georgia offers assistance through the Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) program for eligible families, which can significantly offset these costs. You can apply for CAPS through the Gordon County Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS).
How can I check the licensing and quality rating of a daycare provider in Oakman?
The State of Georgia provides excellent public tools for this. First, visit the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) website and use their "Find Child Care" search. You can search by Oakman's zip code (30731) to see a list of all licensed providers. Each listing will show their license status (active, probation, etc.) and any serious compliance history. Importantly, Georgia has a voluntary "Quality Rated" system—the state's benchmark for quality beyond basic licensing. A provider with a 1, 2, or 3-star Quality Rated score has met higher standards in areas like learning environments and teacher-child interactions. Always verify a provider's license in person and ask for their most recent DECAL inspection report.
Are waitlists common for daycare spots in Oakman, and how far in advance should I start looking?
While Oakman itself has a limited number of providers, creating some competition for spots, waitlists are not typically as extreme as in larger cities. However, for the most sought-after providers—especially highly-rated Family Child Care Learning Homes or centers with specific educational philosophies—waitlists of 3 to 6 months are possible. For infant care, which has stricter staff-to-child ratios, spots are the most limited. It is highly recommended that parents in the Oakman area begin their search and make contact with providers at least 4 to 6 months before their needed start date. Be prepared to put down a deposit to secure a spot. Don't hesitate to also explore options in neighboring communities such as Ranger or Fairmount.
What are some local resources or programs in Gordon County that can help me find or pay for childcare?
Gordon County offers several key resources for parents. First, the **North Georgia Regional Commission's Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R)** agency serves our area. They can provide personalized referrals to licensed providers in Oakman and Gordon County. You can contact them for free assistance. For financial help, the **Georgia CAPS (Childcare and Parent Services) subsidy program** is administered locally through the Gordon County DFCS office in Calhoun. Eligibility is based on income, work, or school requirements. Additionally, the **Gordon County Chamber of Commerce** may have listings for local businesses, including childcare providers. For early education programs, check if your family qualifies for **Georgia's Pre-K**, which is free for eligible 4-year-olds and may be offered at local elementary schools or private centers.