The Best Daycare Centers in Lexington, OR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lexington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lexington
Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with a play-based learning approach. The center features highly qualified teachers with Early Childhood Education certifications and maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Their curriculum focuses on social-emotional development, literacy readiness, and hands-on learning experiences. The facility includes secure indoor learning environments and safe outdoor play areas with age-appropriate equipment. Parents consistently praise the center's nurturing environment, strong communication, and individualized attention to each child's developmental needs.
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The Learning Tree Preschool & Childcare
Independent
The Learning Tree provides a structured yet flexible educational environment with a curriculum that balances academic preparation and creative expression. Their experienced staff includes teachers with degrees in Early Childhood Education who implement developmentally appropriate practices. The center emphasizes literacy development, STEM exploration, and social skills through themed learning centers and project-based activities. Safety protocols include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The facility features modern classrooms, a dedicated art studio, and expansive outdoor learning gardens.
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Children's House of Hermiston
Independent
Children's House of Hermiston combines Montessori-inspired principles with traditional early childhood education best practices. The center features highly trained educators who create individualized learning plans and track developmental milestones systematically. Their comprehensive program includes language immersion opportunities, music education, and physical development activities. The facility boasts state-of-the-art security systems, nutritional meal programs, and well-equipped learning environments designed to stimulate curiosity and independence. Parents consistently report high satisfaction with the center's communication, educational quality, and caring staff.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lexington, OR
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Lexington, Oregon, and how can I verify a provider's status?
In Oregon, all childcare providers caring for more than three children unrelated to them must be licensed or certified by the state's Office of Child Care (OCC). This includes family childcare homes and childcare centers. In Lexington and the surrounding Morrow County area, you can verify a provider's licensing status, view inspection reports, and check for any serious compliance issues through the "Find Child Care" tool on the Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) website. It's crucial to ensure your chosen provider is in good standing, as licensing ensures they meet minimum health, safety, and staff training standards set by the state.
Given Lexington's rural location, what types of childcare options are typically available, and are waitlists common?
As a smaller, rural community, Lexington primarily offers licensed family childcare homes, which are often run out of a provider's residence. There are no large childcare centers within Lexington itself; parents may need to look in nearby Heppner or, more commonly, commute to Hermiston or Pendleton for center-based options. Due to the limited number of providers, waitlists are very common and can be lengthy, sometimes several months to a year, especially for infant care. It's highly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible, even during pregnancy.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for a toddler in Lexington, Oregon?
Costs in rural areas like Lexington can vary but are generally lower than in Oregon's metropolitan areas. For a toddler in a licensed family childcare home, you can expect to pay an average of $600 to $800 per month for full-time care. Rates in nearby larger towns like Hermiston for center-based care may range from $750 to $950 monthly. It's important to ask providers exactly what is included in the weekly rate (e.g., meals, snacks, supplies). Additionally, many families in Morrow County qualify for and utilize the Oregon Department of Human Services Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) program, which provides subsidy assistance based on income.
Are there any unique local resources or programs in Morrow County to help parents find and afford childcare?
Yes, a key local resource is the **Morrow County Early Learning Hub**, which is part of a statewide network. While not a direct referral service, the Hub works to improve early childhood systems and can provide information on local providers and early learning programs. For financial assistance, the state-administered **Employment Related Day Care (ERDC)** program is vital. The **Morrow County Health Department** may also have connections to resources. For direct search help, parents should contact the **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency** that serves this region, which can be found through the state's Early Learning Division website.
What should I look for or ask about specifically when touring a family childcare home in a rural area like Lexington?
Beyond standard questions about curriculum and daily routines, rural settings require specific considerations. Ask about their **emergency preparedness plan**, including protocols for severe weather, power outages, and medical emergencies given potentially longer emergency response times. Inquire about **transportation** if the provider does any pick-ups or outings. Check the **outdoor play area** for safety and fencing, especially given the potential for nearby agricultural or open land. Discuss their **backup plan** if the provider is sick, as alternatives may be limited locally. Finally, clarify their **communication plan** for parents who may have limited cell service during commutes to and from work in more remote areas.