The Best Daycare Centers in Burlington, OK
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Burlington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Burlington
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center is a highly-regarded early childhood education facility serving the Burlington area from nearby Alva. They employ state-certified teachers and maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios. The center features a comprehensive curriculum that includes STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. Their facility includes secure, age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor playgrounds with safety surfaces, and nutritional meal programs. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, clean environment, and dedicated staff who create nurturing learning experiences. The center holds state licensing and follows strict safety protocols including secure entry systems.
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Kiddie Kollege Child Development Center
Independent
Kiddie Kollege has served Northwest Oklahoma families for over 15 years with a reputation for exceptional early childhood education. Their developmentally appropriate curriculum includes Creative Curriculum components, hands-on learning activities, and kindergarten readiness programs. The center features certified early childhood educators, low student-teacher ratios, and comprehensive safety measures including security cameras and strict pickup protocols. Their facility includes dedicated infant rooms, spacious preschool classrooms, and large outdoor play areas. The center emphasizes parent partnership through regular communication and developmental progress reports.
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ABC123 Child Development Center
Independent
ABC123 Child Development Center serves families throughout Northwest Oklahoma including Burlington area residents. With nearly two decades of operation, they've established a strong track record of quality childcare. The center employs degreed early childhood professionals and offers a balanced curriculum that combines academic preparation with play-based learning. Their facility features modern security systems, nutritional meal programs, and age-specific learning environments. The center maintains DHS licensing and participates in Oklahoma's Reaching for the Stars quality rating system. Parents appreciate the structured daily routines, educational activities, and caring staff who foster children's social and cognitive development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Burlington, OK
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Burlington, Oklahoma, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Burlington, Oklahoma, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) unless they are legally exempt (such as certain religious facilities or care for only children from one family). Licensed providers must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, safety inspections, background checks, and staff training in areas like CPR and First Aid. To verify a facility's license status, you can use the OKDHS Child Care Locator tool online or contact the OKDHS Child Care Services unit directly. Given Burlington's smaller size, it's especially important to confirm licensing, as informal, unlicensed arrangements may be more common in rural areas.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Burlington, OK, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Burlington and the surrounding Alfalfa County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $120 to $180 per week, while toddler care may be slightly less, around $100 to $150 per week. These costs are generally lower than state urban averages but can vary based on the type of facility (home-based vs. center). For financial assistance, Oklahoma's Child Care Subsidy Program (often referred to as "welfare daycare") helps eligible low-income working families, students, or those in training programs. You can apply through the OKDHS office in nearby Cherokee or Enid. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers or licensed home daycares in Burlington, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the limited number of licensed childcare options in a small town like Burlington, waitlists can be significant, often ranging from 3 to 9 months, especially for infant spots. It is highly recommended that parents begin their search during pregnancy or at least 6-8 months before their needed start date. Don't limit your search to Burlington proper; consider licensed home providers in neighboring communities like Cherokee, Aline, or Helena. Being proactive, getting on multiple lists, and checking in periodically are key strategies in this rural area.
What are the main types of childcare options available specifically in Burlington, and what are their pros and cons?
Burlington offers a few primary childcare options. First, licensed family childcare homes, which are the most common, offer a home-like setting with mixed-age groups and potentially more flexible hours. Second, there are licensed childcare centers, which may be part of a church or community program, offering more structured curricula and multiple caregivers. Finally, there are legally exempt providers (like care from a relative or nanny share), which are not regulated by the state but offer maximum flexibility. The pros of licensed options are oversight and safety standards; the con is limited availability. Unregulated care is more available but requires parents to conduct their own thorough vetting.
Are there any daycare facilities in Burlington that offer part-time, drop-in, or after-school care for school-aged children?
Finding part-time or drop-in care in Burlington can be challenging due to the small market. Most licensed providers prioritize full-time enrollments to maintain stable operations. However, some family childcare homes may offer part-time slots or care for school-aged children before and after school, especially for those attending Burlington Elementary. There is no dedicated drop-in childcare center in town. Your best bet is to contact providers directly to inquire about flexible arrangements. For after-school care, also check with the Burlington Public Schools about any existing programs or partnerships with local providers.