The Best Daycare Centers in Manitou, OK
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Manitou. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Manitou
Tillman County Head Start
Community Action Development Corporation
Tillman County Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education and development services to low-income families in the Manitou area. The center follows the evidence-based Head Start curriculum that focuses on school readiness, social-emotional development, and cognitive skills. All lead teachers hold Child Development Associate credentials or higher degrees, and the program maintains low student-teacher ratios. The facility features age-appropriate learning centers, nutritious meal programs, and regular developmental screenings. What sets this center apart is its holistic approach that includes family engagement services, health and dental screenings, and transportation options for qualifying families in rural Tillman County.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Kollege Child Development Center
Independent
Kiddie Kollege offers a structured educational program that balances academic preparation with play-based learning. The center uses the Creative Curriculum system, incorporating literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies into daily activities. All staff members are CPR and First Aid certified, with lead teachers holding early childhood education credentials. The facility includes secure classrooms, outdoor playgrounds with safety surfaces, and monitored entry systems. The center stands out for its extended hours (6:30 AM-6:00 PM), providing flexibility for working families, and its comprehensive summer enrichment program that includes field trips and special activities for school-aged children.
Daycare Services:
First Baptist Church Weekday Early Education
First Baptist Church of Frederick
First Baptist Church Weekday Early Education provides a Christian-based early learning environment that emphasizes both academic and spiritual development. The program uses the Abeka curriculum combined with hands-on learning activities to prepare children for kindergarten. Teachers are certified in early childhood education and participate in ongoing professional development. The facility features bright, well-equipped classrooms, a dedicated indoor play area, and secure, fenced outdoor spaces. This center distinguishes itself through its strong community involvement, character education program, and optional chapel services that integrate faith-based values with quality early childhood education standards.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Manitou, OK
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Manitou, Oklahoma, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Manitou, Oklahoma, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) unless they are legally exempt (such as certain small in-home operations). Licensed providers must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff background checks, health and safety training, facility safety, and nutritional guidelines. To verify a facility's license status, you can use the OKDHS Child Care Locator tool online or contact the OKDHS Child Care Services division directly. It's highly recommended to only consider licensed providers, as this ensures a baseline of safety and quality regulated by the state.
Are there any subsidized childcare or financial assistance programs available for families in Manitou, OK?
Yes, eligible families in Manitou can apply for childcare subsidy through the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) Child Care Subsidy Program. This program helps low-income working families, families in job training, or those meeting other specific criteria pay for childcare at licensed or approved providers. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. You can apply online through the OKDHS website or at your local OKDHS county office. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships, so it's always worth asking directly.
Given Manitou's small size, what types of childcare options are typically available, and are waitlists common?
In a smaller community like Manitou, childcare options primarily consist of licensed family childcare homes (small, in-home settings) and possibly a smaller childcare center. Due to limited options, waitlists are very common, especially for infant and toddler care. It's advisable to begin your search during pregnancy or several months before you need care. Networking with other local parents can provide leads on potential openings in home-based settings that may not be widely advertised. For more options, some parents in Manitou also consider providers in nearby larger towns like Altus or Frederick.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Manitou, Oklahoma?
While costs can vary based on the provider type and age of the child, in the Manitou area, you can expect to pay an average of $100 to $150 per week for full-time care in a licensed family childcare home. Center-based care, if available locally, may be slightly higher. These rates are generally lower than the state average for urban areas but are significant for local household budgets. Always ask for a detailed breakdown of what the weekly fee includes (meals, snacks, supplies) and be aware of any additional costs for registration, late pickup, or optional activities.
What should I look for during a tour of a potential daycare in Manitou, and are there local resources to help me evaluate options?
During a tour, observe the cleanliness and safety of the environment, check for secure outdoor play areas, and note how staff interact with the children. Ask about daily routines, discipline policies, emergency procedures, and staff qualifications. In a small town like Manitou, personal recommendations are invaluable; ask neighbors, local Facebook community groups, or your pediatrician's office for insights. You can also check a provider's compliance history through the OKDHS public records, which will show any past licensing violations. Trusting your instincts about the caregiver's warmth and the program's structure is crucial.