The Best Daycare Centers in Wanette, OK
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Wanette. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Wanette
KinderCare Learning Center at Shawnee
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare Shawnee provides a comprehensive early childhood education program serving families in the Wanette area with a research-based curriculum focused on literacy, math, and social-emotional development. The center features secure keypad entry, certified teachers with early childhood credentials, and age-appropriate learning environments. Their program includes daily progress tracking, nutritious meals, and outdoor play areas. What sets this center apart is their strong emphasis on school readiness through structured play and learning activities, with low teacher-to-child ratios ensuring personalized attention for each child's developmental needs.
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Primrose School of Norman
Primrose Schools Franchising Company
Primrose School of Norman offers their exclusive Balanced Learning® approach combining academic preparation with character development for children from infancy through pre-K. The facility features secure monitoring systems, dedicated play areas, and classrooms designed for hands-on learning. Their degreed teachers implement a structured curriculum that includes literacy, mathematics, science, and arts, with regular parent communication through electronic daily reports. The center stands out for its emphasis on building integrity, fairness, and compassion while maintaining excellent safety records and nutritional meal programs prepared on-site.
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The Goddard School of Norman
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Norman provides a premier early childhood education program with their FLEX Learning Program that balances academic learning with creative play. The center features secure entry systems, modern classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Their faculty includes experienced teachers with early childhood education degrees who implement developmental assessments and individualized learning plans. The school distinguishes itself through strong emphasis on STEM activities, language development, and social skills, with excellent teacher-to-child ratios and comprehensive safety protocols that include regular health and safety inspections.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Wanette, OK
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available for families in Wanette, OK?
In Wanette, Oklahoma, licensed childcare options primarily consist of family childcare homes and childcare centers, though centers are more limited locally. Family childcare homes are small, home-based operations licensed by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) to care for a specific number of children, often providing a more intimate setting. Due to Wanette's small, rural nature, there are no large commercial daycare chains within the city itself. Many families also utilize legally operating unlicensed family homes, which can care for up to 5 children (including their own under age 13) without a license, but they are not subject to the same inspections and regulations. For more structured center-based care, parents often look to nearby larger towns like Pauls Valley or Shawnee, which are within a reasonable commuting distance.
How much does full-time childcare typically cost in Wanette, and are there any financial assistance programs?
In Wanette and the surrounding Pottawatomie County area, childcare costs are generally lower than state and national averages but vary by provider type. A licensed family childcare home typically charges between $100-$150 per week for full-time infant/toddler care, and slightly less for preschool-aged children. Due to limited supply, prices can be at the higher end of that range. Oklahoma offers significant financial assistance through the Child Care Subsidy Program administered by OKDHS, which helps eligible low-income working families, those in job training, or students pay for care at licensed or qualifying providers. Additionally, the federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit can provide relief at tax time. It's crucial to apply for subsidy assistance early, as waitlists can exist.
What should I look for when checking a daycare provider's licensing and inspection history in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma maintains strict licensing standards through OKDHS. For any licensed provider in Wanette, you should first verify their current license status. You can do this by asking the provider for their license number and checking the OKDHS Child Care Locator website or calling the OKDHS licensing office. Review their compliance history, which details any citations (non-compliances) from annual unannounced inspections, including the nature of the violation and if it was corrected. Look for patterns of serious violations related to health, safety, or child-to-staff ratios. Also, ensure the provider has required training in CPR/First Aid, safe sleep practices (for infants), and ongoing professional development. Don't hesitate to ask the provider directly about their inspection reports—a reputable one will be transparent.
Are waitlists common for daycare in Wanette, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common for the limited number of licensed childcare slots in Wanette. High-quality and licensed family homes often have very limited capacity (e.g., 6-12 children total) and can fill up quickly, sometimes maintaining waitlists months or even a year in advance, especially for infant care. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search during pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before their needed start date. When contacting providers, ask immediately about current availability and their waitlist process, including any fees to hold a spot. Being flexible with your start date can help. Exploring options in neighboring communities like Byars, Asher, or Shawnee can broaden your choices but may involve a longer commute.
What are some local resources or networks in Pottawatomie County to help me find and evaluate childcare?
A key local resource is the **Pottawatomie County Health Department**, which can provide referrals and information on licensed providers and health requirements. The primary statewide tool is the **OKDHS Child Care Locator** online. For personal recommendations, connecting with local networks is invaluable. Consider joining community Facebook groups (e.g., "Wanette, OK Community" or "Pottawatomie County Moms"), asking at the Wanette Public Schools, or inquiring at the Wanette Public Library. These local networks often have the most current, on-the-ground knowledge about which providers have openings and their reputations. Additionally, the statewide organization **Child Care Resource Center (CCRC)** offers referral services and can guide you through understanding quality indicators and subsidy applications.