The Best Daycare Centers in Broken Arrow, OK
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Broken Arrow. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Broken Arrow
Primrose School of Broken Arrow
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Broken Arrow operates as part of the nationally accredited Primrose Schools network with a balanced learning approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor learning environments. Their Balanced Learning curriculum focuses on character development, literacy, math, science, and social skills. All teachers are trained in early childhood development and maintain low student-to-teacher ratios. The center provides nutritious meals and snacks, regular parent communication through the Primrose Schools app, and comprehensive safety protocols including background-checked staff and secure facility access.
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The Learning Experience - Broken Arrow
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Broken Arrow offers a comprehensive early education program with proprietary curricula including L.E.A.P. (Learning Experience Academic Program) and philanthropy-focused programs. The center features modern security systems, indoor and outdoor play areas, and technology-enhanced classrooms. Their approach emphasizes cognitive, physical, and social development through hands-on activities, music, and movement. The facility maintains state-mandated teacher-to-child ratios with CPR and First Aid certified staff. Parents receive daily updates and photos through the center's mobile app, and the center offers flexible scheduling options including full-time and part-time care.
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The Goddard School of Broken Arrow
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Broken Arrow provides a play-based learning environment grounded in current childhood development research. Their F.L.EX. (Fun Learning Experience) program encourages creativity, problem-solving, and social skills through hands-on activities. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and well-equipped classrooms with learning centers. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and participate in ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes health and safety with rigorous cleaning protocols, nutritionally balanced meals, and comprehensive emergency preparedness plans. Parent engagement is supported through regular communication, portfolio assessments, and family events.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Broken Arrow, OK
What are the typical costs for daycare in Broken Arrow, OK, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Broken Arrow, daycare costs vary significantly based on the child's age and the type of facility. For infant care at a licensed center, parents can expect to pay between $800 to $1,200 per month. Toddler care typically ranges from $700 to $1,000 monthly, while preschool programs often cost $600 to $900 per month. Home-based daycare is generally more affordable, ranging from $500 to $800 monthly. Oklahoma offers financial assistance through the Department of Human Services (DHS) Child Care Subsidy Program for qualifying families based on income, work, or school attendance. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's advisable to contact the Oklahoma Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency for the most current information on subsidies and to get personalized referrals.
How do I verify a daycare is properly licensed in Broken Arrow, and what are Oklahoma's key licensing requirements?
All childcare facilities in Broken Arrow must be licensed by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS). You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any serious violations by using the "Child Care Locator" tool on the Oklahoma DHS website. Key state licensing requirements include background checks for all staff, specific staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:8 for 3-year-olds), annual health and safety training, and compliance with facility safety standards. Oklahoma also has a tiered "Reaching for the Stars" quality rating system (One-Star to Three-Stars), which evaluates programs beyond minimum licensing. When touring a facility in Broken Arrow, don't hesitate to ask for their current license and their star rating.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Broken Arrow, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common, especially for infant and toddler rooms at highly-rated centers in Broken Arrow. Due to high demand and limited infant care slots, it is strongly recommended that parents begin their search during pregnancy, ideally 6 to 12 months before their needed start date. For preschool-age children, a 3 to 6-month lead time is often sufficient. When contacting centers, ask specifically about their waitlist process: if there's a fee to join, how often they update families on position, and estimated timelines. Exploring multiple options, including licensed family childcare homes, which may have shorter waitlists, is a practical strategy for Broken Arrow parents.
What are some of the major differences between daycare centers and licensed in-home providers in Broken Arrow?
The two primary options in Broken Arrow offer distinct environments. Licensed **Childcare Centers** are typically larger facilities with multiple classrooms, structured curricula, and multiple staff. They often have stricter hours of operation (e.g., 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM) but may offer more enrichment programs. **Licensed Family Childcare Homes** operate out of the provider's residence, offering a smaller, home-like setting with mixed-age groups, which can be beneficial for siblings. They often provide more flexible hours and may be more accommodating with individual schedules. Both are licensed by OK DHS, but homes generally care for fewer children (up to 7, with specific ratios). The best choice depends on your child's temperament, your need for schedule flexibility, and your preference for a specific type of learning environment.
Beyond basic care, what types of enrichment or educational programs are typically offered by Broken Arrow daycares?
Many Broken Arrow daycares incorporate structured educational approaches aligned with Oklahoma's Early Learning Guidelines. Common enrichments include: **Faith-based curricula** at many local churches, **Montessori or play-based learning** philosophies, and **STEM activities** for preschoolers. It's also common to find programs offering extracurriculars like introductory Spanish, music and movement classes, or basic sign language. For physical development, centers often have structured outdoor play and some may offer soccer or tumbling programs through external vendors. When touring, ask about their daily schedule, curriculum philosophy, and if any additional fees apply for special programs. The Broken Arrow Public Schools also offers a limited number of pre-K programs, which are another highly structured, educational option for 4-year-olds.