The Best Daycare Centers in Oakhurst, OK
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Oakhurst. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Oakhurst
The Goddard School of Tulsa
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social-emotional development with low student-to-teacher ratios. All teachers are highly qualified with ongoing professional development, and the facility features secure keypad entry, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds. The school emphasizes communication with parents through daily reports and regular updates.
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Primrose School of South Tulsa
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School provides a balanced learning approach through their exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum, combining purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The curriculum includes character development, literacy, math, science, and creative arts. The school maintains rigorous safety standards including secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. Their facility features developmentally appropriate classrooms, multiple playgrounds, and dedicated spaces for music and movement activities.
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La Petite Academy of Tulsa
Learning Care Group
La Petite Academy offers a comprehensive early education program with their proprietary School Readiness Pathway curriculum that prepares children for kindergarten and beyond. The program focuses on academic, social-emotional, and physical development through hands-on learning experiences. The center features secure facilities with electronic entry systems, age-appropriate learning materials, and outdoor play areas. Their experienced teaching staff receives ongoing training in early childhood development and safety protocols, with strong emphasis on parent-teacher communication and individualized learning plans.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Oakhurst, OK
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Oakhurst, OK?
In Oakhurst and the surrounding Tulsa metro area, full-time daycare costs can vary significantly based on the type of facility. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $600 to $850 per month for an infant or toddler. In-home family childcare providers in Oakhurst often offer more affordable rates, typically ranging from $450 to $650 per month. These costs are generally lower than the national average but have been rising. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. Some facilities may also charge registration or supply fees annually.
How can I verify that a daycare in Oakhurst is properly licensed and check its compliance history?
All childcare facilities in Oklahoma must be licensed by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS). You can verify a provider's license and review their compliance history through the OKDHS Child Care Locator tool online. This public database shows the facility's current license status, capacity, ages served, and any non-compliance citations from their last several inspections. For Oakhurst specifically, you can also contact the OKDHS Child Care Services office for the Tulsa County region for additional guidance. Always visit a potential daycare and ask to see their current license certificate, which should be posted visibly.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with childcare costs for families in Oakhurst?
Yes, the primary program is Oklahoma's Child Care Subsidy Program, administered by OKDHS. Eligibility is based on family income, size, and need (such as employment or attending school). Many families in Oakhurst qualify for this assistance, which pays a portion of the cost directly to a licensed or eligible provider. You can apply online through the OKDHS website or at your local Human Services Center. Additionally, some local nonprofits and community action agencies in the Tulsa area may offer limited scholarships or sliding-scale fee programs. It's advisable to apply early, as funding can be limited and waitlists may exist.
What is the average waitlist time for enrolling an infant in a daycare center in Oakhurst, and how should I plan?
Due to high demand and limited infant slots (which have stricter staff-to-child ratios), waitlists for infants at reputable daycare centers in Oakhurst can be substantial. It is common to encounter waitlists of 3 to 9 months, especially for centers affiliated with employers or highly-rated programs. To plan effectively, begin your search and schedule tours during your second trimester of pregnancy. Get on multiple waitlists, even if there's a small fee, and maintain communication with the centers every few months. Consider flexible alternatives like a licensed in-home provider or a nanny share with another local family to bridge any gaps.
What are some key questions to ask during a tour of a daycare in Oakhurst, specific to Oklahoma standards?
Beyond general questions, focus on Oklahoma-specific regulations and local practices. Key questions include: "What is your staff's current certification in Oklahoma's Professional Development Ladder (OPDL)?" This indicates ongoing training. "Can you explain your sick child policy and how it aligns with Oklahoma's exclusion guidelines?" "What is your plan for severe weather, given Oklahoma's tornado risk?" Ask about their playground safety and sun protection for hot Oklahoma summers. Inquire about their food program—many Oklahoma daycares participate in the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) to provide nutritious meals. Finally, always request contact information for current Oakhurst-area parent references.