The Best Daycare Centers in Gene Autry, OK
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Gene Autry. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Gene Autry
Kiddie Kottage Learning Center
Independent
Kiddie Kottage Learning Center is a highly-regarded early childhood education facility serving the Gene Autry area from nearby Ardmore. They offer a comprehensive developmental curriculum that balances academic preparation with social-emotional learning. The center features state-licensed teachers with early childhood education credentials, low student-to-teacher ratios, and secure facility access. Their program includes age-appropriate learning centers, outdoor play areas, and nutritional meal programs. What sets them apart is their focus on individualized learning plans and strong parent communication systems, with regular progress updates and family involvement opportunities.
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The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Ardmore provides premium early childhood education serving families in the Gene Autry region. Operating under a nationally recognized franchise with rigorous standards, they implement a play-based learning approach grounded in current childhood development research. The facility features purpose-built classrooms, secure entry systems, and certified teachers with ongoing professional development. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) emphasizes literacy, STEM, art, and technology integration. The center stands out for its comprehensive safety protocols, modern facilities, and balanced curriculum that prepares children for academic success while nurturing creativity and social skills.
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Kids World Learning Center
Independent
Kids World Learning Center has built a strong reputation serving the Gene Autry and southern Oklahoma region with quality childcare services. Their educational philosophy combines structured academic preparation with developmental appropriate practice, focusing on the whole child. The center features experienced early childhood educators, secure facilities with monitored access, and age-specific learning environments. Their curriculum includes language development, mathematics readiness, science exploration, and creative arts. Notable strengths include their inclusive environment, flexible scheduling options for working families, and commitment to maintaining small class sizes that allow for personalized attention and strong teacher-child relationships.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Gene Autry, OK
What types of licensed childcare options are available in and around Gene Autry, Oklahoma?
In the Gene Autry area, which is a small community in Carter County, licensed childcare options are primarily limited to in-home family childcare homes. Due to the rural nature of the town, there are no large daycare centers within the city limits. Parents often look to neighboring communities like Ardmore (approximately 15-20 minutes away) for licensed childcare centers, preschools, and Head Start programs. The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) licenses all providers. You can use the OKDHS Child Care Locator tool online to search for licensed "Family Child Care Homes" in the Gene Autry zip code (73436) and expand your search to include Ardmore for more center-based options. Many local families also rely on trusted, unlicensed babysitters or nanny shares, but licensed care ensures the provider meets state health, safety, and training standards.
What is the average cost of daycare in Gene Autry, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
For the licensed family childcare homes in Gene Autry, average costs typically range from $100 to $150 per week for full-time care for one child, which is generally lower than urban areas in Oklahoma. Center-based care in nearby Ardmore can cost between $120 to $180 per week. Financial assistance is available for qualifying families through the Oklahoma Child Care Subsidy Program (often referred to as "welfare daycare"), administered by OKDHS. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or attending school). Given the economic profile of Carter County, many families utilize this subsidy. It's crucial to apply through the local OKDHS office in Ardmore and be prepared for potential waitlists, as funding can be limited.
How long are waitlists for childcare in the Gene Autry area, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists can vary significantly. For the few licensed in-home providers in Gene Autry itself, waitlists may be short or non-existent, but openings are infrequent due to small capacity. For the more sought-after centers and preschools in Ardmore, waitlists, especially for infants and toddlers, can be several months long. It is highly recommended to begin your search and make contact with providers at least 3-6 months before you need care. Be proactive: call multiple providers, ask to be placed on their waitlist, and follow up monthly. Networking within the local community—through Facebook groups like "Gene Autry Community" or churches—can also uncover unadvertised openings or recommendations for in-home caregivers.
What are the key state licensing requirements I should verify when choosing a childcare provider in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma has specific licensing rules all providers must follow. Key requirements to verify include: 1) **Staff-to-Child Ratios:** For family homes, one caregiver for up to six children (with no more than two under 2 years old). 2) **Background Checks:** All staff must have cleared OSBI criminal history and DHS child abuse registry checks. 3) **Health and Safety:** Providers must have current CPR/First Aid certification, safe sleep practices for infants, and emergency plans. 4) **Training:** Annual professional development in topics like child development and safe food handling is required. You can ask any provider for their OKDHS license number and verify their compliance and any history of violations online through the public OKDHS licensing portal. Don't hesitate to ask to see their current license during a visit.
Are there any part-time, drop-in, or after-school care options for school-aged children in Gene Autry?
Traditional part-time or drop-in daycare options are extremely scarce within Gene Autry itself due to the limited number of providers. For school-aged children, the main resource is the Gene Autry Public School system. They may offer an after-school program on-site, which is the most common solution for local families. It's essential to contact the school district directly for availability, hours, and cost. For occasional drop-in needs, parents often arrange informal care with other families or trusted sitters. For more structured part-time preschool or daycare, you would likely need to look at facilities in Ardmore, some of which may offer 2-3 day a week programs, but transportation from Gene Autry would be a key consideration.