The Best Daycare Centers in Altus AFB, OK
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Altus AFB. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Altus AFB
Altus AFB Child Development Center
97th Force Support Squadron
The Altus AFB Child Development Center is a Department of Defense certified facility offering high-quality early childhood education specifically designed for military families. The center features a comprehensive curriculum focused on developmental milestones, with certified early childhood educators and low child-to-staff ratios. The facility includes age-appropriate learning centers, secure outdoor playgrounds, and follows strict safety protocols including background checks and secure access. Special programs include parent involvement activities, nutritional meal services, and flexible care options to accommodate military schedules. The center maintains NAEYC accreditation standards and provides consistent developmental assessments.
Daycare Services:
KinderCare Learning Center at Altus
KinderCare Education
KinderCare Altus provides a nationally recognized early childhood education program with research-based curriculum across all age groups. The center features dedicated learning centers for literacy, math, science, and creative arts, with qualified teachers holding early childhood credentials. Safety features include secured entry systems, regular safety drills, and comprehensive staff training. The facility offers balanced meal programs, outdoor learning environments, and transportation for school-age children. Their curriculum emphasizes social-emotional development, kindergarten readiness, and individualized learning plans with regular parent-teacher conferences and progress reports.
Daycare Services:
The Learning Tree Child Development Center
Independent Local Center
The Learning Tree Child Development Center is a locally owned facility serving Altus and military families with a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation. The center features state-licensed teachers with early childhood degrees, low student-teacher ratios, and a comprehensive curriculum that includes phonics, mathematics, science exploration, and social studies. The facility includes secure classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and nutritionally balanced meals. Special features include regular developmental assessments, parent communication apps, extended hours for military families, and enrichment programs in music, art, and physical education. The center maintains excellent DHS compliance records and high parent satisfaction ratings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Altus AFB, OK
What are the main childcare options available for military families stationed at Altus AFB?
For families at Altus AFB, the primary options are the on-base Child Development Center (CDC) and Family Child Care (FCC) homes. The CDC is a state-licensed and nationally accredited facility offering full-time, part-time, and hourly care for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. The FCC program consists of certified providers who operate out of their on-base or approved off-base homes, offering a more home-like setting with potentially more flexible hours. Due to high demand, especially for infants and toddlers, it's crucial to get on the waitlist for the CDC as soon as you have orders. Off-base, options in the town of Altus are more limited and include a few licensed childcare centers and home-based providers, which may have different availability and fee structures.
How does the fee structure work for the Altus AFB Child Development Center, and is financial assistance available?
Fees at the Altus AFB CDC are based on your Total Family Income (TFI), not rank, ensuring a sliding scale that makes care more affordable. Your TFI is calculated using your Leave and Earnings Statement (LES). The CDC management can provide the current fee chart. Financial assistance is available through the Air Force Fee Assistance program, which can help cover costs for off-base care if the CDC has no openings. Additionally, the Air Force Aid Society (AFAS) offers grants and interest-free loans for emergency childcare needs. It's important to register with MilitaryChildCare.com, the Department of Defense's centralized platform, to manage your search, waitlist status, and apply for fee assistance.
Are there any unique programs or hourly care options for parents with variable or demanding shift schedules at Altus AFB?
Yes, the Altus AFB CDC understands the demands of military life and offers a program called "Respite Care" and limited hourly care, subject to availability. Respite care is designed to provide short-term relief for parents. For shift workers, the FCC (Family Child Care) network is often the most flexible option, as individual providers may offer evening, weekend, or overnight care to accommodate odd hours. It's essential to communicate your specific schedule needs directly with the CDC and FCC coordinators during registration. The Altus AFB Airman & Family Readiness Center (A&FRC) can also be a resource for identifying providers who cater to non-traditional hours.
What should I look for when considering an off-base childcare provider in the Altus, OK, area?
When looking off-base, first verify the provider's license with the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS). You can search their online licensing database. Ask about their experience with military families, their policies on late pick-ups if you're delayed by duty, and their emergency procedures. Inquire about their curriculum, caregiver-to-child ratios (Oklahoma state ratios are typically 1:4 for infants, 1:6 for toddlers, and 1:12 for 4-year-olds), and staff turnover. Visit the facility to check for safety, cleanliness, and engagement. Costs in Altus are generally lower than national averages but can vary; always get a detailed breakdown of fees. Using your fee assistance benefit can make accredited off-base care more affordable.
How long are the waitlists for childcare at Altus AFB, and what can I do to improve my chances of securing a spot?
Waitlists, particularly for the CDC's infant and toddler rooms, can be several months long due to high demand and limited capacity. To improve your position, register on MilitaryChildCare.com as soon as you receive your assignment orders—this is your single point of entry for both CDC and FCC options. Indicate your flexibility for start dates and care options (e.g., full-time vs. part-time). Also, contact the Altus AFB CDC directly to introduce yourself and express your needs. Consider applying for multiple options simultaneously: the CDC, several FCC homes, and a backup off-base provider. The A&FRC can provide guidance and support during this process. Persistence and early action are key.