The Best Daycare Centers in Madras, OR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Madras. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Madras
Bright Horizons at St. Charles Redmond
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at St. Charles Redmond is a highly-regarded childcare center located approximately 25 miles from Madras, serving families throughout Central Oregon. The center operates on a research-based curriculum that emphasizes whole-child development through play-based learning and structured activities. Their educational approach includes Emergent Curriculum that adapts to children's interests while ensuring developmental milestones are met. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor play areas designed for different age groups. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and maintain low teacher-to-child ratios. The center is known for its comprehensive health and safety protocols, nutritious meal programs, and strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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Little Scholars Learning Center
Independent
Little Scholars Learning Center in Redmond serves the broader Central Oregon region including Madras families. The center focuses on providing a balanced educational experience that combines academic preparation with social-emotional development. Their curriculum incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and creative arts tailored to each age group. The facility includes secure classrooms, monitored playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers for different developmental stages. Staff members are trained in early childhood education and maintain current CPR/first aid certifications. The center is particularly noted for its small class sizes, individualized learning plans, and comprehensive safety measures including secure check-in systems and regular safety drills. Parent involvement is encouraged through regular events and detailed progress reports.
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Stepping Stones Early Learning Center
Independent
Stepping Stones Early Learning Center in Prineville serves families throughout Central Oregon, including those commuting from Madras. The center offers a comprehensive early childhood program that balances structured learning with child-directed exploration. Their curriculum focuses on developing foundational skills through hands-on activities, sensory experiences, and social interaction opportunities. The facility features secure, age-appropriate environments with dedicated infant rooms, toddler areas, and preschool classrooms. Teachers maintain Oregon Early Learning Division certifications and participate in ongoing professional development. The center is recognized for its strong emphasis on safety, including secure facility access, comprehensive background checks, and rigorous health protocols. They provide nutritious meals and snacks while accommodating dietary restrictions, and maintain open communication with families through digital platforms and in-person meetings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Madras, OR
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Madras, OR, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Madras, the cost of full-time childcare can vary significantly based on the child's age and the type of facility. For an infant, you can expect to pay between $800 to $1,200 per month. For toddlers and preschoolers, costs typically range from $700 to $1,000 per month. These rates are generally lower than in larger Oregon metro areas like Bend or Portland. For financial assistance, the primary resource is the Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) through the Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) program, which provides subsidies to eligible working families. Additionally, local providers like the Jefferson County Early Learning Hub can offer guidance and may have information on local scholarships or sliding scale fees. It's crucial to apply for ERDC early, as there can be a waitlist.
How long are waitlists for licensed daycare centers and in-home providers in Madras, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists in Madras are common, especially for infant care and highly-rated centers, and can range from a few months to over a year. The limited number of providers in a rural community like Jefferson County contributes to this. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or at least 6-12 months before you need care. Contact multiple providers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $25-$75). Consider expanding your search to include registered family childcare homes in surrounding areas like Metolius or Culver. Staying in regular, polite contact with providers every few months can also help keep your application active. The Central Oregon Childcare Resource & Referral can help you find current openings.
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Oregon, and how can I verify a provider's license and complaint history in Madras?
In Oregon, all childcare providers caring for more than three children unrelated to them must be licensed or registered with the Early Learning Division (ELD). Licensed centers and family homes must meet strict standards for safety, staff-to-child ratios, training, and facility requirements. To verify a provider's status and history, use the State of Oregon's "Child Care Licensing Search" tool online. You can search by provider name, city (Madras), or zip code. This public database shows the license status, capacity, any serious violations (non-compliances), and complaint investigations. It's a critical step for parents. You can also contact the local ELD office for the Central region for additional information.
Are there any unique childcare options or programs in Madras that cater to agricultural or shift-working families?
Yes, given Madras's location in an agricultural and manufacturing region, some providers offer flexible hours to accommodate non-traditional schedules. While specific 24-hour care is rare, some in-home providers may offer early morning (starting at 5:00 or 6:00 AM) or evening care. It's essential to inquire directly with providers about their hours of operation. Additionally, the Jefferson County School District 509-J offers preschool programs that may have partial-day options. For school-age children, the district's BASE (Before and After School Enrichment) program provides care that aligns with the school day. Networking with other local parents through community groups or Facebook pages like "Madras Community Chat" can help you find providers who understand the needs of shift workers.
What resources are available in Madras to help me find and evaluate childcare providers?
The primary resource for finding licensed childcare in Madras is the **Central Oregon Childcare Resource & Referral (CCR&R)**, a service of NeighborImpact. They maintain a current database of licensed providers, offer personalized referrals, and can provide checklists for evaluating quality. You can contact them online or by phone. Locally, the **Jefferson County Early Learning Hub** is a valuable partner focused on early childhood system development and can connect families to resources. For hands-on evaluation, always schedule tours and ask providers about their curriculum, emergency plans, staff qualifications, and philosophy. Visiting during operating hours gives you a true sense of the environment. Local pediatric clinics and the Jefferson County Public Health Department may also have recommendations.