The Best Daycare Centers in Howe, OK
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Howe. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Howe
Kiddin' Around Learning Center
Independent
Kiddin' Around Learning Center is a highly-regarded childcare facility located approximately 15 minutes from Howe in Poteau. They offer a comprehensive educational program that includes age-appropriate curriculum for infants through school-age children. The center features certified early childhood educators, low teacher-to-child ratios, and a structured learning environment that emphasizes both academic and social development. Their facilities include secure indoor classrooms and safe outdoor play areas with age-appropriate equipment. The center is known for its strong communication with parents, regular developmental assessments, and nutritious meal programs. Their preschool program focuses on kindergarten readiness with literacy, math, and social skills development.
Daycare Services:
Small World Child Development Center
Independent
Small World Child Development Center serves the Howe area from its Poteau location approximately 12 miles away. This center provides a nurturing environment with a balanced approach to early childhood education, combining structured learning with play-based activities. They employ qualified early childhood educators and maintain excellent staff-to-child ratios. The curriculum includes language development, early math concepts, science exploration, and creative arts. Safety is prioritized with secure entry systems, regular safety drills, and comprehensive background checks for all staff. The center features modern classrooms, age-appropriate learning materials, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Parents consistently praise the center's caring staff and the visible developmental progress of their children.
Daycare Services:
The Learning Tree
Independent
The Learning Tree in Heavener serves families in the Howe area with a focus on preschool and school-age children. Located approximately 8 miles from Howe, this center has built a strong reputation for its educational programming and caring environment. They offer a structured preschool curriculum that emphasizes literacy, numeracy, and social skills development in preparation for kindergarten. The facility features dedicated learning centers, a library corner, and safe outdoor play spaces. Their experienced teaching staff holds early childhood education credentials and participates in ongoing professional development. The center is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, regular parent-teacher conferences, and engaging extracurricular activities. They also provide transportation services for local school districts in their after-school program.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Howe, OK
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Howe, Oklahoma, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Howe, Oklahoma, all childcare facilities, including family childcare homes and centers, must be licensed by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS). Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and staff training. For Howe specifically, you can verify a provider's license status and view any history of non-compliance by using the OKDHS Child Care Locator tool online or by contacting the OKDHS Child Care Services office for the southeastern region. It's important to note that some very small in-home providers may be legally exempt from licensing, but they must register with the state. Always ask to see a current license certificate when touring a facility.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Howe, OK, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Howe and the surrounding Le Flore County area, full-time daycare costs can vary. For a licensed childcare center, you might expect to pay between $120 to $160 per week for an infant/toddler. In-home family daycare is often slightly less, ranging from $90 to $130 per week. These rates are generally lower than in larger Oklahoma cities like Tulsa or Oklahoma City. For financial assistance, Oklahoma's Child Care Subsidy Program helps eligible low-income families. You apply through OKDHS, and the subsidy is paid directly to a licensed or registered provider of your choice in Howe. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly.
Are there any daycare centers or preschools in Howe that offer educational curriculum or prepare children for kindergarten?
While Howe is a small town, there are options that focus on early learning. Some licensed family childcare homes and local centers incorporate structured preschool activities into their daily routines. It's crucial to ask providers about their curriculum. Many align with Oklahoma's Early Learning Guidelines for literacy, math, and social skills. For a more formal preschool program, parents in Howe sometimes look at options in nearby larger towns like Poteau (about a 15-minute drive), which may have dedicated preschools or Head Start programs. When touring facilities in Howe, ask specifically about daily lesson plans, learning activities, and how they track developmental milestones to ensure school readiness.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in Howe, and what can I do to secure a spot for my child?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small community like Howe, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care. A waitlist of 3 to 6 months is not unusual for the most sought-after licensed homes or centers. To secure a spot, it's recommended to begin your search during pregnancy or at least 4-6 months before you need care. Contact all available providers in Howe to get on their lists, even if you have a first choice. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist or registration fee (typically $25-$50) to hold your place. Staying in regular, polite contact with the provider every few months can also help keep your family top of mind when an opening arises.
What are my options for drop-in or part-time childcare in Howe, OK, for irregular work schedules or occasional needs?
Finding consistent drop-in or part-time care in a small town like Howe can be challenging, as most licensed providers prioritize full-time, consistent schedules to maintain stable income and ratios. Your best options are to: 1) Inquire with local licensed family childcare homes, as they may have more flexibility to accommodate a part-time schedule if they have an opening. 2) Network with other parents in the community to find a trusted, experienced babysitter for occasional needs. 3) Consider a nanny share with another family, though this is less common in rural areas. Some providers might offer a "part-time" rate for set days each week (e.g., 2-3 days), but true hourly or daily drop-in care is rare. Always ensure any occasional caregiver you use has passed a background check.