The Best Daycare Centers in Oxford, KS
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Oxford. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Oxford
Little Learners Preschool & Childcare
Independent
Little Learners is a highly-regarded local childcare center serving Oxford and surrounding communities. They offer a comprehensive early childhood education program with a play-based learning approach that incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, state-certified educators, and a secure facility with monitored access. Their curriculum includes daily outdoor play in their fenced playground, nutritious meal programs, and regular parent communication through digital portfolios. What sets them apart is their strong community involvement and individualized attention to each child's developmental needs.
Daycare Services:
Winfield Child Development Center
Independent
Located just 15 minutes from Oxford in Winfield, this established center serves families throughout Cowley County. They employ a structured educational approach with developmentally appropriate curriculum that includes early literacy, mathematics, science exploration, and creative arts. The center features degreed lead teachers, comprehensive security systems including keypad entry, and regularly updated safety protocols. Their facility includes age-specific classrooms, indoor gross motor area, and multiple outdoor play spaces. Parents consistently praise their transparent communication, experienced staff, and the center's commitment to creating a nurturing learning environment.
Daycare Services:
Primrose School of Goddard
Primrose Schools
As part of the nationally recognized Primrose Schools network, this location serves families throughout south-central Kansas, including Oxford commuters. They implement the exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum that blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, accredited early childhood educators, and a research-based approach to early development. Their facility includes dedicated music and art rooms, STEM labs, and expansive outdoor learning environments. The school is known for its strong emphasis on character development, literacy foundation, and preparing children for academic success through hands-on learning experiences.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Oxford, KS
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Oxford, KS, and how do I find them?
In Oxford, KS, your primary licensed childcare options are family childcare homes (in-home providers) and licensed childcare centers. As a smaller community, family childcare homes are more common than large centers. To find licensed providers, you should start with the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) Child Care Search tool on their website. This official registry lists all providers in Sumner County, including Oxford, who meet state health, safety, and training requirements. You can filter by location, age of child, and type of care. Additionally, contacting the Sumner County Health Department or asking for local recommendations in community Facebook groups (like "Oxford, KS Community") can be helpful for finding trusted providers.
What is the average cost for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Oxford, and are there any financial assistance programs?
In Oxford and the surrounding Sumner County area, full-time daycare costs are generally lower than in major Kansas metros. For an infant, you can expect to pay approximately $120-$180 per week at a licensed family childcare home. Toddler care may range from $110-$160 per week. These rates are estimates and can vary based on the provider's experience, hours, and included services like meals. For financial assistance, Kansas offers the Child Care Subsidy program through the DCF for eligible families based on income, work, or school attendance. You can apply through the DCF Self-Service Portal or the Sumner County DCF office. Also, some local providers may offer sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking.
Are waitlists common for daycare providers in Oxford, and how far in advance should I start looking?
While Oxford is a small town, quality licensed childcare spots can still be limited due to lower overall provider numbers. It is not uncommon for well-regarded family childcare homes to have small waitlists, especially for infant care. We recommend starting your search at least 3-4 months before you need care, and if you are expecting a baby, getting on lists during your second trimester is advisable. Be proactive: contact multiple providers, schedule visits, and ask directly about their current availability and typical waitlist timeframe. Flexibility with your start date can significantly improve your chances of securing a spot sooner.
What are Kansas state licensing requirements that I should verify when choosing a daycare in Oxford?
All licensed providers in Kansas must comply with DCF regulations. Key requirements you should verify include: 1) **Staff-to-Child Ratios and Group Sizes:** For infants (0-12 months), the ratio is 1:3; for toddlers (1-2 years), it's 1:5. 2) **Background Checks:** All staff and adults in the home must pass comprehensive background checks. 3) **Health and Safety Training:** Providers must have training in CPR, First Aid, and safe sleep practices for infants. 4) **Annual Inspections:** Homes and centers are inspected for health, safety, and fire compliance. You can ask any provider in Oxford for their current license and inspection reports, which they are required to make available to parents.
For a town like Oxford, what are some local-specific factors I should consider when visiting a potential daycare?
Given Oxford's rural setting, consider these local factors: 1) **Transportation & Distance:** Clarify drop-off/pick-up times, as providers may have strict hours due to their own family commitments or travel from nearby farms. 2) **Emergency Preparedness:** Ask about their plan for severe weather common to Kansas (like tornadoes) and how they handle potential power outages. 3) **Outdoor Play & Activities:** Inquire about safe outdoor play areas and how they incorporate local elements (like nature walks, if applicable) into their daily routine. 4) **Community Connection:** A good sign is a provider who is networked with other local parents and perhaps participates in community events, as this often indicates stability and a strong reputation. 5) **Flexibility for Agriculture Families:** If your family is involved in farming, ask if they offer any flexibility during peak planting or harvest seasons, as some local providers may understand these unique scheduling needs.