The Best Daycare Centers in Cameron, OK
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Cameron. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Cameron
Cameron Head Start
Community Action Agency of Eastern Oklahoma
Cameron Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education with a focus on school readiness for low-income families. The program offers a research-based curriculum that addresses cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. Certified teachers implement developmentally appropriate practices in small class settings. The center provides nutritious meals, health screenings, and family support services. What makes this facility stand out is its holistic approach that includes parent involvement and comprehensive support services beyond traditional childcare.
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Kiddin' Around Learning Center
Independent
Located in nearby Poteau (serving the Cameron area), Kiddin' Around Learning Center offers a structured educational environment with age-appropriate curriculum for all developmental stages. The center features state-certified teachers, low student-teacher ratios, and a security-coded entry system. Their curriculum includes literacy development, STEM activities, and social-emotional learning. The facility includes modern classrooms, outdoor play areas, and dedicated infant rooms. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, cleanliness, and the nurturing environment created by experienced staff.
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Little Lighthouse Child Development Center
Independent
Serving the Cameron-Poteau region, Little Lighthouse Child Development Center provides quality childcare with an emphasis on Christian values and early education. The center offers a balanced curriculum that includes academic preparation, character development, and hands-on learning experiences. Certified early childhood educators implement developmentally appropriate practices in secure, modern facilities. The center features age-specific classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and nutritional meal programs. What distinguishes this facility is its combination of academic rigor with character education and strong parent-teacher partnerships.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Cameron, OK
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Cameron, Oklahoma, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Cameron, Oklahoma, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS). This includes family childcare homes, group homes, and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and training. To verify a facility's license status, you can use the OKDHS Child Care Locator tool online or contact the OKDHS Child Care Services office directly. It's crucial to check for any recent violations or probationary status. Many reputable providers in the Cameron area will also proudly display their license.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Cameron, OK?
The cost of daycare in Cameron, OK, is generally lower than in larger Oklahoma cities but can vary based on the type of care. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay approximately $120 to $180 per week for full-time care for an infant or toddler. In-home family daycare providers may offer slightly lower rates, typically ranging from $100 to $150 per week. These costs are estimates, and it's important to inquire directly with providers about their specific weekly or monthly rates, any registration fees, and whether supplies like diapers and formula are included.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with childcare costs for families in Cameron?
Yes, eligible families in Cameron can apply for assistance through Oklahoma's Child Care Subsidy Program, administered by OKDHS. This program helps low-income working families, those in job training, or parents attending school pay for licensed childcare. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and the reason care is needed. You can apply online through the OKDHS website or in person at your local OKDHS Human Services Center. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking about financial options when you tour a facility.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in the Cameron area, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Cameron, waitlists for preferred daycare centers, especially for infants, can be several months long. It's not uncommon to be placed on a 3 to 6-month waitlist. To improve your chances, we recommend contacting providers as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. Get on multiple waitlists, follow up politely every few months to confirm your spot, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist or registration fee, which is a common practice. Exploring licensed in-home providers can also offer more immediate availability.
What are some key questions to ask when touring a daycare facility in Cameron, specifically regarding safety and local routines?
When touring a daycare in Cameron, beyond standard questions, ask locally relevant questions. For safety, inquire about their severe weather protocols, given Oklahoma's tornado risk—where is the storm shelter, and how do they practice drills? Ask about their policy for school closures (e.g., snow days) if they care for school-aged children from Cameron Public Schools. Discuss outdoor playtime and sun protection, considering Oklahoma's heat. Also, ask about their daily communication methods with parents and how they handle local events or field trips. Finally, request references from other Cameron-area parents to get firsthand feedback on their experience.