The Best Daycare Centers in Tatums, OK
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Tatums. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Tatums
Kiddie Kollege Child Development Center
Independent
Kiddie Kollege offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with a strong focus on developmental milestones and school readiness. The center features a research-based curriculum that incorporates literacy, mathematics, science, and social-emotional learning. Their qualified teaching staff maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and participates in ongoing professional development. The facility includes secure, age-appropriate classrooms, indoor and outdoor play areas, and modern safety systems. Parents particularly praise the center's communication, nurturing environment, and the visible progress children make in their development.
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First Baptist Church Child Development Center
First Baptist Church of Ardmore
This faith-based childcare center provides a balanced approach to early education, combining academic preparation with character development. The curriculum emphasizes Christian values while meeting all state early learning standards. The center features experienced, certified teachers who create engaging, hands-on learning environments. Safety is a top priority with secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The facility includes dedicated infant rooms, spacious preschool classrooms, and safe outdoor playgrounds. Parents consistently note the caring staff, clean environment, and strong sense of community.
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Wilson Early Childhood Center
Wilson Public Schools
As part of the Wilson Public School system, this early childhood center offers a structured educational program focused on kindergarten readiness. The curriculum aligns with state standards and emphasizes literacy development, social skills, and foundational academic concepts. Certified early childhood educators provide instruction in purpose-built classrooms designed for young learners. The center features modern security systems, age-appropriate learning materials, and specialized play areas. Parents appreciate the strong educational foundation, professional teaching staff, and seamless transition to elementary school. The program maintains high standards for both education and child safety.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Tatums, OK
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available to parents in Tatums, OK?
In Tatums, Oklahoma, parents primarily have access to two types of licensed childcare options: Family Child Care Homes and Child Care Centers. Family Child Care Homes are smaller, home-based operations licensed to care for a limited number of children (typically up to 7, including the provider's own), offering a more intimate, family-like setting. Given Tatums's small, rural community, these are often the most common and accessible. Licensed Child Care Centers are larger facilities, though there may be limited options directly within Tatums itself, potentially requiring travel to nearby towns like Ringling or Healdton. All licensed providers in Oklahoma are regulated by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS), which sets standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, and child-to-staff ratios. You can verify a provider's license and view any compliance history on the OKDHS Child Care Locator website.
How much does full-time daycare typically cost in Tatums, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
Due to Tatums's rural setting and lower cost of living compared to urban areas in Oklahoma, daycare costs are generally more affordable but can vary. For a licensed Family Child Care Home in the area, you might expect to pay approximately $100-$150 per week for full-time care of an infant or toddler. Rates for preschool-aged children may be slightly lower. Availability of center-based care within Tatums is very limited, and if found in a neighboring community, costs could be higher. Financial assistance is available for qualifying families through the Oklahoma Child Care Subsidy Program (often referred to as "welfare daycare"), administered by OKDHS. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work or education requirements. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts. It's crucial to inquire directly with providers about their specific rates and any available discounts.
Are there long waitlists for daycare in Tatums, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Given the limited number of providers in a small community like Tatums, availability can be very tight, and waitlists are common, especially for infant care. It is highly recommended that parents begin their search at least 3-6 months before their needed start date, and even earlier if possible. For a specific provider with an excellent local reputation, you may need to get on a list as soon as you know you are expecting. When contacting providers, be sure to ask about their current waitlist length, the process for getting on it (e.g., if a deposit is required), and how often they update families on their position. Exploring options in surrounding towns like Ringling, Healdton, or even Ardmore (a longer commute) can provide more alternatives and potentially shorter wait times.
What specific questions should I ask a potential daycare provider in Tatums during a tour or interview?
Beyond general questions about curriculum and daily routines, parents in a rural setting like Tatums should ask location-specific and practical questions. Key inquiries include: "Are you licensed by OKDHS, and may I see your current license?" "What is your emergency plan for severe weather common in Southern Oklahoma, like tornadoes?" "What is your policy and procedure for transporting children, if needed, given the distances to schools or activities?" "How do you handle communication with parents, especially if internet/cell service is spotty?" "What are your hours of operation, and is there flexibility for parents who commute to Ardmore or Duncan for work?" Also, ask about staff longevity and training, as a stable provider in a small town is a significant asset.
What are the state-mandated staff-to-child ratios and training requirements for daycare providers in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma has strict licensing rules for child-to-staff ratios and training to ensure child safety and quality care. For infants (0-11 months), the ratio is 1 staff member to 4 infants. For toddlers (12-23 months), it's 1:6. For 2-year-olds, it's 1:8, and for 3-year-olds, it's 1:12. All lead caregivers in licensed facilities must complete 12 hours of annual professional development training. Furthermore, Oklahoma requires all childcare personnel to pass a comprehensive background check through the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) and the FBI. Providers must also have current certification in CPR and First Aid. When evaluating a provider in Tatums, you have the right to ask for verification of these requirements to ensure your child is in a compliant and safe environment.