The Best Daycare Centers in Asher, OK
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Asher. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Asher
Primrose School of Shawnee
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Shawnee offers a nationally accredited Balanced Learning® curriculum that blends teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. Their approach focuses on character development, literacy, math, science, and social skills through hands-on learning. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers. Teachers hold early childhood credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes partnership with families through regular communication and parent resources, serving families throughout Pottawatomie County including the Asher area.
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Kiddie Kollege Early Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Kollege provides comprehensive early childhood education with a play-based learning approach that incorporates Oklahoma Early Learning Guidelines. The center features structured daily routines, nutritious meal programs, and secure facilities with monitored access. Their curriculum emphasizes social-emotional development, early literacy, and kindergarten readiness. The experienced teaching staff maintains low child-to-teacher ratios and participates in ongoing training. The center serves families across Pottawatomie County with flexible scheduling options and has built a strong reputation for quality care over nearly two decades of operation.
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Ada Child Development Center
Independent
Ada Child Development Center offers a comprehensive early education program serving children from infancy through school age. Their curriculum focuses on developmental milestones through structured learning activities, creative expression, and physical development. The center maintains high safety standards with secure facilities, regular safety drills, and strict health protocols. Qualified early childhood educators provide individualized attention with emphasis on social skills, cognitive development, and school readiness. The center serves families throughout Pontotoc County and surrounding areas, including Asher, with extended hours and year-round programming.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Asher, OK
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Asher, OK?
In Asher and the surrounding Pottawatomie County area, full-time daycare costs can vary based on the type of facility. For a licensed in-home daycare, you might expect to pay between $100 to $150 per week. For a larger childcare center, which may be located in nearby towns like Shawnee, costs can range from $125 to $175 per week for full-time care. These rates are generally lower than the state average, reflecting the rural nature of the community. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. Some providers may offer discounted rates for multiple children.
How can I verify that a daycare provider in Asher is properly licensed and in good standing with the state?
All licensed childcare programs in Oklahoma are regulated by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS). You can verify a provider's license and review their compliance history through the OKDHS Child Care Locator tool online. Simply search by the provider's name or by Asher's zip code (74826). This report will show the license type (Family Child Care Home or Child Care Center), capacity, any recent licensing visits, and if there have been any serious non-compliance issues. For very small, legally exempt providers (caring for 5 or fewer children), they may not be required to be licensed, so it's crucial to ask about their experience, safety policies, and references directly.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with childcare costs for families in Asher?
Yes, eligible families in Asher can apply for the Oklahoma Child Care Subsidy Program, administered by OKDHS. This program helps low-income working families, parents in job training, or those pursuing education pay for childcare at licensed or approved providers. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. You can apply online through the OKDHS website or in person at the Pottawatomie County OKDHS office in Shawnee. Additionally, some local providers may offer their own sliding scale fees or scholarships, so it's always worth asking directly about financial assistance options.
What is the availability of daycare like in Asher, and should I expect to be on a waitlist?
Asher is a small, rural community, so the number of dedicated daycare facilities within the town limits is limited. Most options are licensed family home daycares. Availability can be tight, especially for infant care which has stricter staff-to-child ratios. It is very common to encounter waitlists, particularly for the most sought-after providers. We recommend starting your search at least 3-4 months before you need care. Be prepared to expand your search to nearby communities like Wanette, Konawa, or Shawnee (a 20-30 minute drive) for more center-based options, though these may also have waitlists.
What are some key questions to ask a potential daycare provider in Asher during a tour or interview?
Beyond general questions about curriculum and daily schedules, ask specific questions relevant to a rural setting. These include: "What is your plan for emergency medical response given our distance from a major hospital?" "How do you handle inclement weather or power outages?" "What is your policy on outdoor play and exposure to local agriculture/ranching environments?" Also, inquire about staff qualifications and longevity—low turnover is a good sign of a stable environment. Ask for references from current parents, and verify their enrollment policies, sick policies, and how they communicate with parents throughout the day.