The Best Daycare Centers in Shawnee, OK
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Shawnee. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Shawnee
Happy Times Learning Center
Independent
Happy Times Learning Center is a highly-regarded local childcare facility serving Shawnee families for over a decade. They offer a comprehensive early childhood education program with age-appropriate curriculum focusing on social, emotional, and cognitive development. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, experienced staff with early childhood education credentials, and a safe, nurturing environment. Their program includes structured learning activities, creative play, and outdoor recreation in their secure playground. The center is known for its family-oriented approach, regular parent communication, and commitment to preparing children for kindergarten success through literacy-rich activities and developmental milestones tracking.
Daycare Services:
Primrose School of Norman
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Norman is part of the nationally recognized Primrose Schools network and serves families throughout the Shawnee metro area. They implement the exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The school features state-of-the-art security systems, nutritionally balanced meals prepared on-site, and dedicated learning environments for each age group. Their highly qualified teachers hold early childhood education degrees and receive ongoing professional development. The curriculum emphasizes character development, literacy, mathematics, and STEAM activities, with regular progress reports and parent-teacher conferences to ensure each child's developmental needs are met.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Academy of Oklahoma City
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Oklahoma City is a premier educational childcare center that serves families across central Oklahoma, including Shawnee residents. They utilize the Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on whole-child development through structured learning centers, hands-on activities, and character education. The academy features secure access systems, certified teachers with early childhood education backgrounds, and modern facilities designed specifically for young learners. Their program includes technology integration, foreign language exposure, and community awareness projects. The center is known for its strong emphasis on school readiness, with comprehensive literacy and math programs, plus enrichment activities in music, art, and physical education. They maintain excellent staff retention and provide detailed daily reports to keep parents informed about their child's progress and activities.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Shawnee, OK
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Shawnee, OK?
In Shawnee, the cost of childcare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For infants and toddlers, full-time care typically ranges from $120 to $180 per week. Preschool-aged children (3-5 years) often see slightly lower weekly rates, averaging between $100 and $150. Home-based daycare providers may be on the lower end of this scale, while licensed childcare centers with structured educational programs tend to be higher. It's important to note that costs can be offset by state assistance programs like Oklahoma's Child Care Subsidy, which eligible Shawnee families can apply for through the Department of Human Services (DHS).
How can I verify if a daycare in Shawnee is properly licensed and check its compliance history?
All licensed childcare facilities in Shawnee are regulated by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS). You can verify a provider's license and review their compliance history, including any past violations, by using the free online "Child Care Locator" tool on the Oklahoma DHS website. Simply search by the provider's name, city (Shawnee), or zip code. This report will show their license status, capacity, ages served, and details from recent monitoring visits. We also recommend visiting the facility in person and asking to see their current license, which should be posted visibly.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Shawnee, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Waitlists are common for infant spots and highly-rated centers in Shawnee, especially those affiliated with local employers like Shawnee Medical Center or Gordon Cooper Technology Center. For infant care, it's advisable to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as your second trimester of pregnancy. For toddler and preschool openings, starting your search 3-6 months in advance is a good rule of thumb. Many providers maintain separate lists for different age groups. Be proactive—call centers directly, ask about their waitlist policies (e.g., if a deposit is required), and consider putting your name on multiple lists to increase your options.
What are some of the key differences between home-based daycares and childcare centers in Shawnee?
In Shawnee, home-based daycares (licensed family homes) are typically smaller, caring for fewer children in a residential setting, which can offer a more intimate, family-like atmosphere. They often have more flexible hours and may be less expensive. Licensed childcare centers are larger facilities with multiple staff, structured classrooms, and often a set curriculum for preschool-aged children. They may offer more resources and enrichment programs. Both types are licensed by OK DHS, but centers undergo more frequent inspections. Your choice may depend on your child's temperament, your need for schedule flexibility, and your preference for a specific educational approach.
What resources are available in Shawnee to help me find and compare local childcare options?
Shawnee parents have several valuable local resources. The primary resource is the **Potawatomi Nation Child Care and Development (CCDF) Program**, which serves both tribal and non-tribal families in the area, offering referrals and subsidy assistance. You can also contact the **Oklahoma Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency** serving Pottawatomie County; they provide free personalized referrals, quality information, and guidance on financial assistance. Additionally, local Facebook groups like "Shawnee, OK Community" or "Shawnee Moms" are often used by parents to share personal experiences and recommendations for local providers.