The Best Daycare Centers in Watts, OK
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Watts. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Watts
ABC Child Development Center
Independent
ABC Child Development Center is a highly-regarded facility serving the Watts area from nearby Adair. They offer a comprehensive early childhood education program with a play-based learning approach that incorporates Creative Curriculum elements. The center features low student-teacher ratios, with all lead teachers holding early childhood education credentials. Their facility includes secure indoor learning environments with age-appropriate classrooms, a fenced outdoor playground with safety surfacing, and a commercial kitchen providing nutritious meals. The center is known for its strong parent communication through daily reports and a dedicated parent portal, along with regular developmental assessments to track each child's progress.
Daycare Services:
Growing Tree Learning Center
Independent
Growing Tree Learning Center serves families throughout the region including Watts with a focus on holistic child development. Their curriculum blends academic preparation with social-emotional learning, featuring STEM activities, literacy development, and character education. The center maintains state-exceeding safety standards with secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and regular safety drills. Teachers participate in ongoing professional development and many hold degrees in early childhood education. The facility includes separate playgrounds for different age groups, a library corner, and art studio space that encourages creative expression.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Kollege Child Development Center
Independent
Kiddie Kollege has been serving the regional community including Watts for nearly two decades with a reputation for consistent, quality care. Their educational approach emphasizes school readiness through structured learning centers and hands-on activities that develop cognitive, physical, and social skills. The center features certified teachers with specialized training in early literacy and mathematics instruction. Safety is prioritized with video monitoring, strict pickup procedures, and comprehensive health protocols. Their spacious facility includes dedicated nap rooms, multiple outdoor play areas with modern equipment, and classroom environments designed to stimulate learning through exploration and discovery.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Watts, OK
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Watts, Oklahoma, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Oklahoma, all childcare facilities, including those in Watts, must be licensed by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) unless they are legally exempt (like certain small in-home operations). Licensed providers must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, health and safety inspections, background checks, and staff training in areas like CPR and First Aid. To verify the license status of a specific daycare in the Watts area, you can use the OKDHS Child Care Locator tool online or contact the OKDHS Child Care Services division directly. It's crucial to choose a licensed provider to ensure your child is in a regulated and safe environment.
Are there any subsidized childcare assistance programs available for low-income families in Watts, OK?
Yes, eligible families in Watts can apply for the Oklahoma Child Care Subsidy Program, administered by OKDHS. This program helps low-income working parents, parents in job training, or those attending school pay for childcare at licensed or eligible providers. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. You can apply online through the OKDHS website or in person at the nearest OKDHS county office, which for Watts residents would likely be in Westville or Tahlequah. Due to potential waitlists, it's recommended to apply as soon as you anticipate needing care.
Given that Watts is a small town, what types of childcare options are typically available, and are waitlists common?
In a small, rural community like Watts, your primary options are likely to be licensed family childcare homes (small, in-home operations) or possibly a local church-based preschool program. Larger childcare centers are less common and may require travel to nearby towns like Westville or Siloam Springs, AR. Due to the limited number of providers, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care slots. It's advisable to start your search several months in advance, contact multiple providers, and get on waitlists even if you're not immediately ready for care.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for a toddler in the Watts area?
Costs can vary based on the type of care and the provider's specific rates. For a licensed family childcare home in the Watts area, you might expect to pay an average of $100 to $150 per week for full-time toddler care. A center-based program in a nearby larger town could range from $120 to $180 per week. These are estimates, and it's essential to get direct quotes from providers. Always ask what is included in the weekly rate (meals, snacks, supplies) and inquire about any registration fees or policies for late payments.
What local resources or networks can help me find and evaluate childcare options in and around Watts?
A key statewide resource is the **Oklahoma Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency**, which serves your region. They maintain a database of licensed providers and can offer personalized referrals. You can contact them via their statewide website or hotline. Locally, connecting with other parents at community centers, churches like the Watts Baptist Church, or through Facebook community groups for Adair County can provide invaluable word-of-mouth recommendations. Also, check with the Watts Public School district; they may have information about pre-K programs or partnerships with local providers.
Childcare Insights for Watts
Finding the right childcare is one of the most important decisions a family makes, and if you're searching for "daycare around me" in Watts, Oklahoma, you're likely looking for that perfect blend of safety, nurturing care, and convenience close to home. As a small, close-knit community in the beautiful foothills of the Ozarks, Watts offers a unique setting for raising children, and your search for care here comes with its own special considerations. The good news is that while options may be more intimate than in a large city, the potential for personalized, community-focused care is significant.
Your first step should be to look beyond a simple online search and tap into the local network that makes Watts so special. Start by asking for recommendations from neighbors, friends at church, or other parents you meet at the park or the local library. In a town like Watts, personal referrals are invaluable and often lead you to licensed home daycares or smaller childcare providers that might not have a large online presence but are cherished pillars of the community. Don't hesitate to contact the Watts Public School district office as well; they can sometimes provide information about pre-K programs or recommend reputable providers that prepare children for the local school environment.
When you do identify potential daycares, your visit is crucial. Pay close attention to the safety of the environment, both indoors and out. Ask about their policies for outdoor play, considering our area's natural beauty and changing weather. A great provider will have secure, engaging outdoor space for children to explore. Inquire about their daily structure—how they balance learning activities, free play, and rest times. Given Watts' rural location, it's also wise to discuss their plan for emergencies or inclement weather, and ensure their transportation policies, if any, align with your comfort level. Finally, trust your instincts about the warmth and attentiveness of the caregivers. You want a place where the staff genuinely enjoys engaging with children, a feeling that often shines through immediately.
Remember that flexibility can be key in a smaller community. Some of the best childcare solutions in areas like Watts might involve a partnership with another local family or a tailored arrangement with a home-based provider. Be clear about your needs, whether it's full-time care, part-time help, or flexibility for agricultural or shift work common in our region. Finding "daycare around me" in Watts, OK, is about more than just proximity; it's about finding an extension of your family's values within our supportive community. With a little local insight and careful observation, you can find a nurturing spot where your child will thrive, just minutes from your front door.