The Best Daycare Centers in Oakland, MI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Oakland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Oakland
The Goddard School of Oakland Township
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Oakland Township offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their state-of-the-art facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play spaces. Highly qualified teachers implement developmentally appropriate curriculum focusing on literacy, STEM, arts, and social-emotional development. The center maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and provides comprehensive safety protocols including rigorous background checks for all staff. Parents consistently praise the school's communication, nurturing environment, and academic preparation.
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Kiddie Academy of Rochester Hills
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Rochester Hills provides comprehensive educational childcare through their Life Essentials® curriculum that emphasizes character development, literacy, and STEAM learning. The academy features modern security systems including keypad entry, video monitoring, and strict pickup protocols. Their highly trained teachers hold early childhood education credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. The facility includes dedicated learning centers, interactive technology, and safe outdoor playgrounds. The program focuses on developing the whole child through hands-on learning experiences, nutritious meal options, and strong parent-teacher partnerships.
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Primrose School of Rochester Hills
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Rochester Hills delivers the renowned Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. Their research-based curriculum covers literacy, math, science, social studies, and character development through hands-on activities. The school features secure facilities with controlled access, comprehensive safety procedures, and health protocols. Classrooms are designed as learning environments with dedicated spaces for different developmental domains. The school emphasizes partnership with families through regular communication, parent resources, and family events. Their balanced approach to early education prepares children for academic success while fostering social skills and independence.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Oakland, MI
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Oakland, Michigan?
In Oakland, Michigan, the average cost for full-time infant or toddler daycare typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,800 per month, depending on the type of facility and its specific location within the city. Licensed childcare centers in more central or newly developed areas of Oakland tend to be at the higher end of this range, while registered family home daycares may offer more affordable options, sometimes starting around $900 per month. It's important to note that Michigan's childcare costs are generally above the national average, and Oakland, being part of the affluent Oakland County, reflects this. Many facilities include meals and basic supplies in their tuition, but always confirm what is covered. We recommend contacting several providers for precise rates and inquiring about any available discounts for siblings, prepayment, or partnerships with local employers.
How do I verify that a daycare provider in Oakland is properly licensed and has a good compliance record with the State of Michigan?
All licensed childcare centers and group/family homes in Oakland must be regulated by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), specifically through the Bureau of Community and Health Systems (BCHS). To verify a provider's license and review their compliance history, you can use the official **LARA Child Care Licensing Search** tool available online. This public database allows you to search by facility name, location, or license number. It will show the license status (active, suspended, etc.), capacity, and any substantiated licensing violations or complaints from the past few years. For the most current and direct insight, you can also call the local LARA childcare licensing office for Oakland County. Additionally, asking the provider for their license number and a copy of their most recent inspection report is a standard and recommended practice.
Are there any local resources or referral services in Oakland to help me find and compare childcare options?
Yes, Oakland parents have an excellent primary resource: **Oakland Family Services** and the affiliated **Oakland County Great Start Collaborative**. These organizations manage a comprehensive childcare referral service. You can contact their resource specialists who maintain databases of licensed providers in the area, filtered by your specific needs such as age of child, hours of operation, location, and special programs. They provide objective information to help you compare options. Another key resource is **4C of Oakland County** (Community Coordinated Child Care), which offers referral services and information on financial assistance programs like the Child Development and Care (CDC) subsidy. Utilizing these free, local services can significantly streamline your search and connect you with vetted providers in the Oakland community.
What is the typical waitlist situation for daycare centers in Oakland, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to high demand and limited infant/toddler slots, many reputable daycare centers in Oakland have significant waitlists, especially for children under 2 years old. It is not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. We strongly advise parents to begin their search and tour facilities **during pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before their needed start date**. When contacting centers, be sure to ask specific questions: their current waitlist length, the deposit or registration fee to secure a spot (which is typically non-refundable), and how often the list is updated. Some centers may give priority to siblings of current enrollees or residents of specific Oakland neighborhoods. Starting early and getting on multiple lists increases your chances of securing a spot when you need it.
What are some of the key questions I should ask during a tour of a daycare center in Oakland, specific to Michigan regulations and local standards?
Beyond general questions about curriculum and daily routines, focus on these Michigan and Oakland-specific topics: 1. **Staffing Ratios & Qualifications:** Ask, "What is your specific staff-to-child ratio for my child's age group?" Michigan law mandates maximum ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants). Also ask about teacher qualifications and ongoing training requirements per state licensing. 2. **Safety & Licensing:** "Can I see your most recent LARA licensing inspection report?" and "What are your specific protocols for severe weather, given Michigan's seasons?" 3. **Health Policies:** "What is your policy on illness exclusion and administration of medication, aligned with Michigan public health guidelines?" and "Is your staff trained in pediatric CPR and first aid, as required?" 4. **Nutrition:** "Do you provide meals and snacks? If so, are they prepared on-site and do you accommodate dietary restrictions?" Some Oakland centers participate in the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program. 5. **Local Community Ties:** "Do you have partnerships with local Oakland schools, libraries, or parks for enrichment activities?" and "What is your policy for outdoor play during colder months?" Asking these detailed questions will help you assess both regulatory compliance and the quality of care specific to your community.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Oakland: