The Best Daycare Centers in Nashoba, OK
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Nashoba. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Nashoba
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with a play-based learning approach. The center features state-certified teachers, low student-to-teacher ratios, and a structured curriculum that includes literacy development, math readiness, and social-emotional learning. Facilities include secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. The center is known for its nurturing environment, regular parent communication, and focus on individual child development milestones. They provide nutritious meals and snacks and maintain excellent safety records with regular drills and protocols.
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Kiddie Kottage Daycare & Preschool
Independent
Kiddie Kottage provides a family-oriented childcare environment with certified early childhood educators. The center implements a balanced curriculum combining Montessori-inspired activities with traditional preschool learning. Features include secure facilities with surveillance systems, developmentally appropriate learning materials, and structured daily routines. The staff maintains CPR and First Aid certifications, and the center emphasizes character development alongside academic readiness. Parents appreciate the small class sizes, individualized attention, and regular progress updates through digital communication platforms.
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Talihina Children's Academy
Independent
Talihina Children's Academy offers a research-based early childhood program focusing on whole-child development. The center employs qualified teachers with degrees in early childhood education and provides a curriculum that integrates STEM activities, literacy development, and creative arts. Facilities include modern security systems, dedicated infant rooms, and age-segregated play areas. The academy is recognized for its strong parent partnership program, nutritious meal service, and commitment to maintaining high health and safety standards. They offer flexible scheduling options and maintain excellent teacher retention rates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Nashoba, OK
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Nashoba, Oklahoma, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Oklahoma, all childcare facilities, including those in Nashoba, must be licensed by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) unless they are legally exempt (like certain small in-home operations). Licensed centers must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training in CPR/First Aid), health and safety protocols, and facility conditions. To verify a provider's license and view their compliance history, including any recent violations, you can use the free OKDHS Child Care Locator tool online or contact the OKDHS Child Care Services office serving Pushmataha County. It's highly recommended to always choose a licensed provider for guaranteed oversight.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in the Nashoba area, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In the rural Nashoba and broader Pushmataha County area, full-time daycare costs are generally lower than state urban averages but can vary. For an infant, you might expect to pay between $100-$150 per week, while toddler care may range from $90-$130 per week. These are estimates, and prices depend on the facility's amenities and age of the child. For financial assistance, Oklahoma offers the Child Care Subsidy Program through OKDHS for eligible families based on income, work, or school attendance requirements. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees. It's crucial to apply for subsidies early, as funding can be limited.
Given Nashoba's rural location, what types of childcare options are typically available, and how long are waitlists?
In a rural community like Nashoba, options often include licensed family childcare homes (smaller, home-based settings) and possibly a limited number of childcare centers in nearby towns such as Antlers. Due to lower population density, there are fewer facilities overall, which can ironically lead to longer waitlists for the most sought-after providers, especially for infant care. It's common for popular family homes or centers to have waitlists of 3 to 6 months or more. Parents are advised to begin their search during pregnancy and get on multiple lists. Networking with other local parents can also uncover lesser-known or newly opening in-home providers.
Are there any daycare facilities in or near Nashoba that offer non-traditional hours for parents working shifts in healthcare, retail, or agriculture?
Finding childcare during evenings, overnight, or weekends is a significant challenge in rural Oklahoma. In the Nashoba area, standard daycare hours for licensed facilities are typically Monday-Friday, 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Care during non-traditional hours is extremely rare. Your best options are to seek out a licensed family childcare home that may offer more flexible arrangements by individual agreement or to explore a private nanny or babysitter share with another family. Some parents in agricultural communities rely on extended family networks. Be sure to discuss your specific schedule needs upfront and in detail with any potential provider.
What should I look for when touring a potential daycare in Nashoba, and are there any local resources to help with my search?
When touring, look beyond basic cleanliness. Observe how staff interact with children—are they engaged and responsive? Check for secure outdoor play areas and ask about their daily routine and educational philosophy. Inquire about their emergency plans for severe weather, which is crucial in Oklahoma, and their policy on sick children. For local resources, start with the OKDHS Child Care Locator. Also, contact the **Pushmataha County Health Department** or the **Kiamichi Technology Center** (Antlers campus), as they may have community bulletins or training programs connected to local providers. Finally, don't underestimate the value of asking for recommendations in local Facebook community groups or at churches.