The Best Daycare Centers in Antlers, OK
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Antlers. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Antlers
ABC Learning Center
Independent
ABC Learning Center is a highly-regarded local childcare facility known for its comprehensive early childhood education program. They employ state-certified teachers and maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios. The center features a structured curriculum that includes literacy development, math readiness, social skills, and creative arts. Their facility includes secure indoor classrooms and a fenced outdoor play area with age-appropriate equipment. They provide nutritious meals and snacks through their USDA-approved food program. Parents consistently praise the center's warm, nurturing environment and strong communication practices.
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Little Blessings Daycare & Preschool
Independent
Little Blessings Daycare & Preschool operates with a faith-based approach while maintaining high educational standards. Their program focuses on developmental milestones through play-based learning and structured activities. The center features secure entry systems, regular safety drills, and certified CPR/first-aid trained staff. Their curriculum includes phonics, numbers, colors, and social development activities. The facility includes separate infant and toddler rooms, a preschool classroom, and a safe outdoor playground. Parents appreciate the consistent staff retention and individualized attention given to each child.
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Kiddie Kollege Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Kollege Learning Center has served the Antlers community for nearly two decades with a strong focus on school readiness. Their educational program emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science exploration, and social-emotional development. The center maintains small class sizes with qualified early childhood educators who participate in ongoing professional development. Their facility includes modern learning materials, computer stations for older children, and well-maintained play areas. They offer flexible scheduling options and maintain open communication with parents through daily reports and regular conferences. The center is known for its inclusive environment and commitment to meeting each child's individual needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Antlers, OK
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Antlers, OK, and how can I verify a daycare is properly licensed?
In Antlers, Oklahoma, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) unless they are legally exempt (like certain small in-home operations). Licensed providers must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, health and safety training, facility safety, and nutritional guidelines. To verify a daycare's license status, you can use the OKDHS Child Care Locator tool online or contact the OKDHS Child Care Services office directly. It's highly recommended to only consider licensed providers, as this ensures a baseline of safety and oversight. You can also ask the daycare director to show you their current license certificate.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Antlers, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the limited number of dedicated daycare centers in a smaller community like Antlers, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant and toddler care. It's not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. We strongly recommend starting your search as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 4-6 months before you need care. Be prepared to get on multiple waitlists and to follow up regularly. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in the surrounding Pushmataha County, as they may have more immediate openings and offer a smaller, home-like setting.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Antlers, OK?
Childcare costs in Antlers are generally lower than state and national averages but vary by provider type. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay approximately $120 to $160 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. Licensed family childcare homes may range from $100 to $140 per week. These rates typically cover basic care, meals, and activities. It's important to ask what is included (e.g., diapers, wipes, formula) and what the policy is for late pick-up fees or holidays. For financial assistance, Oklahoma offers subsidy programs through OKDHS for qualifying families based on income and need.
Are there any childcare options in Antlers that offer flexible or non-traditional hours for parents who work shifts or weekends?
Finding childcare for evenings, nights, or weekends is one of the biggest challenges in Antlers, as most licensed centers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM schedule. Your best options are to seek out licensed family childcare homes, as some providers may offer more flexible hours to accommodate shift workers. Another potential resource is seeking a trusted, vetted in-home nanny or babysitter. Networking through local community Facebook groups, churches, or asking at the Pushmataha County Health Department can sometimes lead to finding a smaller, more adaptable provider. Be sure to thoroughly vet any individual caregiver for safety and references.
What local resources or programs in Antlers can help me evaluate and choose a quality daycare?
Beyond checking the OKDHS license, parents in Antlers have several local resources. First, you can contact the **Pushmataha County Health Department** for information on health and safety inspections. Second, utilize **Oklahoma's Reaching for the Stars** quality rating system; while participation is voluntary, a daycare with a higher star rating (1-3 stars) has met additional quality standards. You can search for rated programs on the OKDHS website. Third, talk to other parents at places like the Antlers Public Library children's section, city parks, or local churches for personal recommendations and experiences. Always schedule an in-person tour to observe the environment and ask detailed questions.