The Best Daycare Centers in Washington, OK
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Washington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Washington
Primrose School of Norman
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Norman offers a nationally accredited Balanced Learning® curriculum that blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The curriculum focuses on literacy, math, science, social studies, and character development. Features include secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and nutritious meals. Teachers have early childhood education credentials and maintain low student-teacher ratios. The school serves families throughout the Norman area and is accessible to Washington residents via short commute.
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Kiddie Academy of Norman
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Norman provides Life Essentials® curriculum that emphasizes STEM learning, literacy development, and character education. The academy features secure facilities with keypad entry, daily communication apps for parents, and developmentally appropriate learning centers. All lead teachers have early childhood education degrees or CDA credentials. The program includes hands-on learning activities, outdoor play spaces, and enrichment programs. Serves as a popular choice for families in the broader Cleveland County area including Washington.
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The Goddard School of Norman
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Norman offers F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that balances academic learning with creative play. Curriculum focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills through project-based learning. Facilities include secure entry systems, multiple playgrounds, and classroom technology. All teachers participate in ongoing professional development and follow state-mandated ratios. The school provides regular progress reports and maintains strong parent communication through mobile apps. Located within reasonable commuting distance from Washington.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Washington, OK
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Washington, Oklahoma, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Washington, Oklahoma, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) unless they are legally exempt (such as certain small in-home operations). Licensed providers must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, safety inspections, background checks, and staff training in areas like CPR and First Aid. To verify a facility's license status, you can use the OKDHS Child Care Locator tool online or contact the OKDHS Child Care Services division directly. It's highly recommended to only consider licensed providers, as this ensures a baseline of safety and oversight regulated by the state.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Washington, OK, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Washington and the surrounding rural areas of Garvin and McClain counties, 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. Costs can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and whether it's a center or a home-based daycare. 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 sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Washington, OK, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the limited number of childcare centers in a smaller community like Washington, waitlists for infant and toddler rooms at reputable facilities can be several months long, especially for popular centers. It's advisable to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy or 6-12 months before you need care. To improve your chances, contact all available licensed centers and registered home providers in the area, get on multiple lists, and follow up periodically. Being flexible with your start date can also help. Exploring home-based daycares, which may have shorter wait times, is a crucial alternative in this market.
Are there any daycare facilities in Washington that offer specialized programs, such as preschool curriculum or care for children with special needs?
While Washington is a small town, some local daycare providers integrate early learning and preschool preparedness into their daily routines. However, dedicated preschool programs are more commonly found in larger nearby cities like Pauls Valley or Norman. For children with special needs, it's essential to discuss your child's requirements directly with providers. All licensed facilities in Oklahoma must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), but their specific experience and resources will vary. You may need to expand your search to neighboring communities or seek referrals from local early intervention programs or your pediatrician for the most appropriate setting.
What are the typical operating hours for daycares in Washington, Oklahoma, and is there any option for evening or weekend care for shift workers?
Most licensed daycare centers and home-based providers in Washington operate on a standard schedule, typically from around 6:30 or 7:00 AM to 5:30 or 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Options for evening, overnight, or weekend care are extremely limited in this rural area. Parents who work non-traditional hours, such as in healthcare or manufacturing in nearby regions, often need to arrange private, in-home care or rely on family networks. It's critical to discuss your specific schedule needs upfront with any potential provider, as flexibility varies greatly, and very few advertise extended hours. Planning for backup care is especially important in this locale.
Childcare Insights for Washington
Finding reliable and affordable child care is one of the most significant challenges for parents, and if you're searching for "affordable child care near me" in Washington, Oklahoma, you're likely navigating a mix of hope and concern. The good news is that in smaller, close-knit communities like ours, quality care often exists within a supportive network, though it may require a bit of local know-how to uncover the best options. Your search in Washington, OK, is not just about cost; it's about finding a safe, nurturing environment where your child can thrive while you work or manage other responsibilities.
A great starting point in Washington is to connect with local resources that have a pulse on the community. Reaching out to the Washington Public School district can be surprisingly helpful. They often have information about before and after-school programs for school-aged children and may know of reputable in-home providers or preschools that serve younger siblings. Additionally, consider stopping by the Washington City Hall or the local public library. These hubs of community activity are places where word-of-mouth recommendations are shared, and bulletin boards may list licensed home daycare providers who don't have a large online presence. In a town like ours, personal referrals from neighbors and friends carry immense weight, so don't hesitate to ask around at community events or your place of worship.
Understanding the landscape of care is key. In Washington and the surrounding Blaine County area, your options will typically include licensed family child care homes, which often offer a more flexible and home-like setting, and potentially smaller daycare centers in nearby larger towns like Watonga or Geary. When evaluating affordability, look beyond the weekly rate. Ask providers if their fees include meals, snacks, or educational materials, as these can add up. Inquire about their operational hours to ensure they align with your schedule, especially if you commute to Oklahoma City or Enid for work. Many providers in our area may offer part-time or flexible arrangements, which can be a significant cost-saver compared to a standard five-day full-time slot.
Finally, your diligence is the most important tool. Once you have a few leads, schedule visits. Observe how the caregiver interacts with the children and trust your instincts about the environment. Verify that the provider is licensed with the Oklahoma Department of Human Services, which ensures they meet health, safety, and training standards. Ask about their experience, their daily routine, and their philosophy on discipline and learning. Finding affordable child care in Washington, Oklahoma, is a journey that blends practical research with community connection. By tapping into local networks and asking the right questions, you can find a solution that provides peace of mind for you and a happy, secure start for your child right here in our own community.