The Best Daycare Centers in Lebanon, OR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lebanon. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lebanon
Little Angels Christian Preschool
Independent Christian Center
Little Angels Christian Preschool offers a faith-based educational environment focused on whole-child development. Their curriculum integrates Christian values with academic preparation, featuring structured learning activities, music, art, and physical education. The center maintains low student-teacher ratios with qualified early childhood educators who provide individualized attention. Facilities include secure classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers. Parents praise the nurturing environment, strong communication, and the center's commitment to character development alongside academic readiness.
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The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in nearby Albany serves the Lebanon community with a premier early childhood education program. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) focuses on play-based learning across seven learning domains. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, certified teachers with early childhood education degrees, and purpose-built classrooms with advanced learning materials. The curriculum emphasizes STEAM education, language development, and social-emotional learning. Parents consistently highlight the professional staff, comprehensive safety protocols, and exceptional academic preparation for kindergarten.
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Kiddie Academy of Albany
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Albany provides educational childcare serving Lebanon families with their Life Essentials® curriculum that balances academic learning with character development. The program focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies through hands-on activities and project-based learning. The facility features secure entry systems, modern classrooms with interactive technology, and outdoor learning environments. Staff include certified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development. The academy emphasizes health and fitness with nutritious meal programs and daily physical activities. Parents report excellent communication, strong kindergarten readiness outcomes, and caring, experienced teachers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lebanon, OR
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Lebanon, Oregon?
In Lebanon, Oregon, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For infants (under 2 years old), you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $1,400 per month at a licensed childcare center. For toddlers (ages 2-3), monthly costs typically range from $900 to $1,200. In-home licensed family childcare providers often charge slightly less, ranging from $800 to $1,100 for infants and $750 to $1,000 for toddlers. These rates are generally lower than in larger metropolitan areas like Portland or Salem but have increased in recent years. It's important to ask what is included in the tuition, such as meals, snacks, diapers, and curriculum materials. Financial assistance may be available through the Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) program for qualifying families.
How do I verify that a daycare or preschool in Lebanon is properly licensed and what should I look for in their inspection record?
All childcare facilities in Lebanon must be licensed and regulated by the **Oregon Early Learning Division (ELD)**. You can verify a provider's license and view their official compliance history by using the free, online **"Child Care Search" tool** on the ELD website. When reviewing a facility's record, look for the license status (should be "Active"), the licensed capacity, and any recorded "Non-Compliances" or "Substantiated Complaints." In Lebanon, common inspection focuses include staff-to-child ratios, safe sleep practices for infants, background checks for all employees, and physical environment safety. You can also contact the local **Linn County Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R)** for personalized help in understanding records and finding quality providers that meet state standards.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Lebanon, and how far in advance should I start looking for care?
Yes, waitlists are very common for daycare centers in Lebanon, especially for infants and toddlers under the age of 2. Due to limited capacity and high demand for quality care, it is strongly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a move **start their search at least 6 to 12 months in advance** of their needed start date. For preschool-age children (3-5 years), a 3 to 6-month lead time is often necessary. Many popular centers in Lebanon maintain waitlists that are a year long for infant spots. When contacting providers, always ask about their current waitlist length, the process for getting on it (some charge a fee), and how often they update families on their status. Exploring multiple options, including licensed family childcare homes, can increase your chances of securing a spot sooner.
What local resources in Lebanon can help me find and evaluate childcare options?
Lebanon parents have several valuable local resources. The primary resource is **Family Connections Resource Center**, which is part of the Linn County Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) network. They offer free, personalized referrals to licensed childcare and preschools in the Lebanon area, help understanding state regulations, and information on financial assistance programs. The **Lebanon Public Library** often hosts parenting workshops and can be a source of community information. Additionally, connecting with local parent groups on social media (like "Lebanon, OR Community" Facebook pages) can provide personal recommendations and insights into provider reputations. For developmental screening and early learning support, you can also contact the **Linn-Benton-Lincoln Education Service District (ESD)**.
What are the key differences between a daycare center and a licensed family childcare home in Lebanon, and which might be better for my family?
The two main licensed options in Lebanon have distinct characteristics. **Daycare Centers** (like KinderCare or local independent centers) are typically larger facilities in commercial buildings, with multiple staff, structured classrooms, and often set operating hours (e.g., 6:30 AM - 6:00 PM). They may offer more peer interaction and a formal curriculum. **Licensed Family Childcare Homes** operate out of the provider's residence, caring for a smaller, mixed-age group of children (typically up to 16, including the provider's own children). They often offer more flexible hours, a homelike environment, and may be more accommodating for non-standard work schedules. In Lebanon, family homes can be a great option for infants or children who thrive in a smaller setting. Your choice depends on your child's temperament, your schedule, and your preference for environment. Always ensure either option is actively licensed by the state, and visit in person to see which feels like the best fit.