The Best Daycare Centers in Lehigh, OK
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lehigh. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lehigh
Kiddie Kollege Child Development Center
Kiddie Kollege
Kiddie Kollege is a highly-regarded childcare center located approximately 15 miles from Lehigh, serving the broader Coal County area. This center offers a comprehensive developmental curriculum that includes age-appropriate learning activities, structured play, and early literacy programs. Staff members hold Early Childhood Education certifications and maintain low teacher-to-child ratios. The facility features secure entry systems, modern classrooms, and age-appropriate outdoor play areas. Parents consistently praise the center's nurturing environment, experienced staff, and strong communication about child development progress. The center provides nutritional meals and snacks following USDA guidelines.
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Little Blessings Daycare & Preschool
Little Blessings
Located about 20 miles from Lehigh in Atoka, Little Blessings Daycare & Preschool has built an excellent reputation for quality childcare in southeastern Oklahoma. The center implements a play-based learning approach combined with structured educational activities that align with Oklahoma Early Learning Guidelines. Certified teachers provide individualized attention with small class sizes and comprehensive safety protocols including secure facility access and regular safety drills. The center features developmentally appropriate learning centers, outdoor playgrounds with safety surfaces, and a focus on social-emotional development. Parents highlight the center's clean facilities, dedicated staff, and strong community atmosphere.
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Primrose School of Durant
Primrose Schools
As part of the nationally recognized Primrose Schools network, this Durant location serves families throughout southeastern Oklahoma, including Lehigh residents (approximately 25 miles away). The school implements the exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum that blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The facility includes secure entry systems, age-specific learning environments, and outdoor learning spaces. All lead teachers hold degrees in Early Childhood Education or related fields, and the school maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios. Parents consistently praise the school's structured curriculum, communication through the Primrose Schools app, and focus on character development alongside academic readiness.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lehigh, OK
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Lehigh, Oklahoma, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Oklahoma, all childcare facilities, including those in Lehigh, must be licensed by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) unless they are legally exempt (like certain small in-home operations). Licensed providers must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, health and safety inspections, background checks for all employees, and staff training in areas like CPR and First Aid. To verify a facility's license and view its compliance history, you can use the free OKDHS Child Care Locator tool online. This resource is crucial for parents in Lehigh to ensure they are considering a regulated and monitored program.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Lehigh, OK?
Childcare costs in Lehigh are generally lower than in major Oklahoma metros but can vary based on the type of care. For a licensed daycare center, full-time infant care typically ranges from $120 to $180 per week. For toddlers, the cost may be slightly lower, around $110 to $160 per week. Licensed family childcare homes in the area often offer more affordable rates, sometimes starting around $90-$130 per week. It's important to note that these are estimates, and prices can differ based on specific programs, hours, and included services like meals. Financial assistance may be available through the OKDHS Child Care Subsidy program for qualifying families.
Are there any state or local programs in Oklahoma that help with childcare costs for families in Lehigh?
Yes, the primary program is the Oklahoma Child Care Subsidy (also known as SoonerCare Child Care), administered by OKDHS. This program provides financial assistance to low-income working families, those in job training, or parents attending school. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and the reason care is needed. Families in Lehigh can apply through their local OKDHS county office. Additionally, some providers may offer sliding scale fees. It's also worth checking with local community organizations or churches, as they may occasionally have resources or sponsor care programs.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in the Lehigh area, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlist times in Lehigh can vary significantly. For the most sought-after centers, especially for infant care, waitlists can be 3 to 6 months long. For toddler and preschool slots, it might be shorter, around 1-3 months. To improve your chances, start your search early—ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. Contact multiple providers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $25-$50). Follow up politely every 4-6 weeks to express continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in the surrounding Coal County area, as they may have more immediate openings.
What are some key factors to consider when touring a daycare facility in Lehigh, given its rural setting?
In a rural community like Lehigh, specific considerations are important. First, inquire about their emergency preparedness plan for severe weather common to Oklahoma (like tornadoes) and their protocol for power outages. Ask about transportation or field trips—are children ever transported, and in what vehicles? Given the setting, check if the facility has secure outdoor play areas protected from local wildlife or stray animals. Also, ask about their policy for illness given the potentially longer distance to a pediatrician or urgent care. Finally, assess the community feel; a good rural daycare often has strong connections with local families and schools, which can provide a supportive network for your child.