The Best Daycare Centers in Stratford, OK
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Stratford. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Stratford
KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education
KinderCare in Ada provides a comprehensive early childhood education program serving families in Stratford and surrounding areas. Their curriculum emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development through play-based and structured learning activities. All teachers are CPR and First Aid certified, with many holding early childhood education degrees. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Standout features include their Phonics Adventures program, daily communication with parents via mobile app, and nutritious meal programs. They maintain low teacher-to-child ratios and offer flexible scheduling to accommodate working families.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Ardmore offers a premier early childhood education program that serves Stratford families with its F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience). This play-based curriculum focuses on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) activities, language development, and social skills. All lead teachers have bachelor's degrees or higher in education-related fields. The facility includes secure keypad entry, sanitization protocols, and developmentally appropriate learning centers. What sets them apart is their daily yoga instruction, foreign language exposure, and personalized learning plans with regular progress reports for parents.
Daycare Services:
Primrose School of Ardmore
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Ardmore provides balanced learning® curriculum that combines academic preparation with character development for children from Stratford and nearby communities. Their approach integrates purposeful play with nurturing guidance across literacy, math, science, and creative arts. All teachers undergo rigorous background checks and continuous professional development. The facility features secure monitoring systems, hygienic environments, and designated outdoor learning spaces. Distinctive elements include their exclusive Harmony & Heart® music program, community service projects, and partnership with parents through regular portfolio assessments and parent-teacher conferences.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Stratford, OK
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Stratford, OK, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Stratford, Oklahoma, all childcare facilities, including family childcare homes and centers, must be licensed by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS). Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, and staff training. You can verify a facility's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any compliance history by using the OKDHS Child Care Locator tool online or by contacting the OKDHS Child Care Services office directly. It's a critical first step for any parent to ensure the daycare operates legally and meets state safety benchmarks.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Stratford, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Stratford area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $120 to $180 per week, while toddler care may be slightly less, around $110 to $160 per week. These costs can vary based on the type of facility (center vs. home-based) and the specific services offered. 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 sibling discounts. It's advisable to contact the Garvin County DHS office for detailed eligibility information and application assistance.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Stratford, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Stratford, waitlists for preferred daycare centers, especially for infant care, can be several months long. It is highly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a move begin their search at least 6 to 9 months before they need care. Contacting providers directly to inquire about current availability and getting on multiple waitlists can increase your chances of securing a spot. Some in-home providers may have shorter wait times, so exploring all licensed options in Stratford and nearby towns like Pauls Valley is a practical strategy.
What are the primary types of childcare options available within Stratford city limits?
Parents in Stratford will primarily find two types of licensed childcare options. The first is licensed family childcare homes, which are smaller, home-based settings often offering a more flexible, family-like environment. The second is daycare centers, which are larger facilities that may offer more structured educational programs and multiple classrooms. Given Stratford's size, the number of centers is limited, and many are affiliated with local churches or community organizations. Some parents also consider licensed providers in neighboring communities or explore registered in-home providers, which have fewer children but must still meet state health and safety standards.
Are there any daycare facilities in Stratford that offer part-time or drop-in care, which might suit parents with non-traditional or shifting work schedules?
Finding consistent part-time or drop-in care in Stratford can be challenging, as most licensed providers prioritize full-time enrollments to maintain stable operations. However, some family childcare homes may offer more flexible arrangements, including part-time slots or care for school-age children before and after school. It is essential to discuss your specific schedule needs directly with each provider. For true drop-in or emergency care, your best bet may be to network with other local parents for babysitter recommendations or look into providers in larger nearby cities like Ada or Ardmore, which may have more flexible commercial daycare centers.
Childcare Insights for Stratford
Finding the right childcare is one of the most important decisions a family makes, and if you're searching for the "best daycares near me" in Stratford, Oklahoma, you're likely looking for a place that feels like a second home. The good news is that in our close-knit community, quality childcare often blends trusted, personalized care with the values we hold dear. Your search is about more than just a location; it's about finding a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where your child can thrive while you're at work or managing daily responsibilities.
Start your search by thinking about what "best" means for your family. For some, it's a structured educational curriculum, while for others, it's a home-like setting with flexible hours. In Stratford and the surrounding Garvin County area, you'll find a mix of licensed home daycares and larger childcare centers. A significant advantage in a smaller community like ours is the power of word-of-mouth. Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations from neighbors, friends at local churches, or even your pediatrician's office in Pauls Valley or Ada. Personal experiences from other Stratford parents can provide invaluable insights you won't find online.
When you begin visiting potential daycares, there are key local considerations to keep in mind. Given our rural setting, ask about their policies for outdoor play and how they incorporate the natural world into daily activities. A great daycare here might have a garden for kids to tend or take nature walks, embracing the Oklahoma landscape. Also, inquire about their communication during severe weather, as we know how quickly Oklahoma skies can change. A reliable provider will have a clear plan for sheltering and for keeping parents informed. Practical logistics are crucial, too. Consider the daily commute; a daycare slightly closer to your work route, perhaps on the edge of town or in a neighboring community, might make more sense for your family's rhythm than one simply closest to your home.
Finally, trust your instincts during a tour. Look for engaged, happy children and caregivers who interact warmly at their level. Ask about caregiver turnover—consistency is key to a child's sense of security. Check that the facility is clean, safe, and properly licensed with the State of Oklahoma. Discuss their approach to early learning, whether through play-based models or more structured preschool preparation, and see if it aligns with your goals. Remember, the "best" daycare in Stratford for you is the one where you feel complete confidence leaving your child, knowing they are in capable and caring hands. Taking the time to visit, ask detailed questions, and observe will lead you to a partnership that supports your child's growth and gives you peace of mind right here in our own community.