The Best Daycare Centers in Oakland, MD
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Oakland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Oakland
Oakland KinderCare
KinderCare Learning Companies
Oakland KinderCare provides comprehensive early childhood education with a research-based curriculum focusing on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials and maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor play areas. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through play and structured activities, with regular progress reports and parent communication. Safety protocols include secured access, comprehensive background checks, and health screening procedures.
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Little Footprints Early Learning Center
Independent
Little Footprints Early Learning Center offers a nurturing environment with a play-based curriculum that incorporates Montessori and Reggio Emilia influences. The center features certified early childhood educators who create individualized learning plans for each child. Facilities include modern classrooms, age-appropriate learning materials, and secure outdoor play spaces. The program emphasizes social development, creativity, and early literacy skills through hands-on activities and exploration. Safety measures include surveillance systems, strict pick-up procedures, and comprehensive health and safety protocols.
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Garrett College Child Care Center
Garrett College
Operated by Garrett College, this childcare center provides high-quality early education with a focus on school readiness and developmental milestones. The center employs degreed early childhood educators and maintains low student-teacher ratios. The curriculum integrates STEM activities, literacy development, and social skills building. Facilities include college-campus amenities, specialized learning centers, and natural outdoor environments. The center offers comprehensive services including developmental screenings and family support resources, with strong emphasis on creating partnerships with parents and community resources.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Oakland, MD
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Oakland, MD, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Oakland, MD, and surrounding Garrett County, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $175 to $250 per week, while toddler care is generally between $150 and $225 per week. These costs can vary based on the center's amenities, staff-to-child ratios, and whether it's a home-based or center-based facility. For financial assistance, parents should contact the Garrett County Department of Social Services, which administers the Maryland Child Care Scholarship (CCS) program. This state-funded program helps eligible working families, students, and those in training programs pay for childcare. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How do I verify that a daycare or childcare provider in Oakland is properly licensed and what are Maryland's key regulations for this area?
All licensed childcare providers in Oakland must be regulated by the Maryland State Department of Education's (MSDE) Office of Child Care. You can verify a provider's license, view inspection reports, and check for any violations by using the free online "Check Child Care" search tool on the MSDE website. Key state regulations include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:3 for infants, 1:6 for 2-year-olds), mandatory background checks for all staff, and required health and safety training. In Oakland specifically, many providers also participate in the state's quality rating system, "Maryland EXCELS," which indicates a higher commitment to quality beyond minimum licensing. Always visit a facility in person and ask to see their current license.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Oakland, and when should I start looking for care, especially for an infant?
Yes, waitlists are very common for infant care slots at licensed centers and highly-regarded home-based providers in Oakland. Due to the smaller number of facilities in a rural area like Garrett County, availability can be limited. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin their search and get on waitlists during the second trimester of pregnancy, or at least 6-9 months before their needed start date. For toddler or preschool-age care, starting your search 3-6 months in advance is advisable. Be proactive: contact multiple providers, ask about their typical waitlist timeline, and consider putting your name on more than one list while making clear your final decision timeline.
What types of childcare options are most available in Oakland, MD, besides traditional daycare centers?
Oakland and Garrett County offer a mix of childcare options to suit different family needs. Besides licensed childcare centers, you will find many licensed family childcare homes, which are smaller, home-based settings often offering more flexible hours and a mixed-age group environment. Another key option is preschool programs, often attached to churches or community organizations, which may offer part-day programs for children ages 3-5. Due to the rural nature of the area, informal care networks with neighbors or relatives are also common. For school-age children, the Garrett County YMCA and the local Boys & Girls Club often provide before- and after-school care programs in conjunction with the public school system.
How does the seasonal tourism in Deep Creek Lake affect childcare availability and operations in Oakland?
Oakland's proximity to Deep Creek Lake, a major four-season tourist destination, significantly impacts the local childcare landscape. During peak tourist seasons (summer and winter), demand for childcare can increase from both local families employed in the hospitality industry and visiting families, potentially straining availability. Some providers may offer short-term or "drop-in" care during these times, but priority is usually given to full-time, year-round families. Conversely, some seasonal workers may seek childcare jobs, potentially affecting staff consistency. It's important to ask providers about their policies for holiday weeks and peak seasons, and whether they guarantee year-round placement for enrolled families. Planning ahead is even more critical if your employment is tied to the tourism industry.