The Best Daycare Centers in Stanfield, OR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Stanfield. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Stanfield
Little People's Learning Center
Independent
Little People's Learning Center is a highly-regarded childcare facility serving the Stanfield-Hermiston area with a comprehensive educational program. They implement the Creative Curriculum system, focusing on developmentally appropriate practices across all age groups. The center features state-certified teachers with specialized training in early childhood education and maintains low teacher-to-child ratios. Their facility includes secure indoor classrooms with age-appropriate learning centers and a large, fenced outdoor playground with safety surfacing. The program emphasizes literacy development, STEM activities, and social-emotional learning, with daily progress reports provided to parents. They also offer nutritious meals and snacks through their USDA-approved food program.
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Kids Club Childcare & Preschool
Independent
Kids Club Childcare & Preschool provides quality early childhood education to the Stanfield community with a play-based learning approach. Their curriculum integrates Montessori principles with Oregon's early learning standards, focusing on hands-on exploration and individualized instruction. The center employs experienced educators with CPR/First Aid certification and ongoing professional development. Safety features include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The facility offers separate age-appropriate classrooms, a dedicated art studio, and multiple outdoor play areas. Their program includes music and movement classes, Spanish language exposure, and community field trips for older children.
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Sunshine Academy Early Learning Center
Independent
Sunshine Academy serves families throughout Umatilla County, including Stanfield residents, with a research-based early childhood program. Their curriculum emphasizes school readiness through the HighScope approach, incorporating key developmental indicators and active participatory learning. The center features degreed lead teachers with specialized training in early literacy and mathematics instruction. Their secure facility includes modern classrooms with interactive whiteboards, a dedicated library corner, and age-appropriate playgrounds with natural elements. The program focuses on character development, conflict resolution skills, and cultural awareness. Additional services include parent education workshops and quarterly developmental assessments with detailed progress reports.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Stanfield, OR
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Stanfield, OR, and how do I find them?
In Stanfield, your primary licensed childcare options are Family Child Care Homes (care in a provider's residence for smaller groups) and Certified Centers (larger facilities). Due to Stanfield's size, there are a limited number of providers, so it's important to start your search early. The best resource is the State of Oregon's "Spark" website (oregonearlylearning.com), which is the official online hub for finding licensed and registered childcare. You can filter by Stanfield, age of your child, and type of care. Additionally, contacting the local referral agency for Umatilla and Morrow Counties, "Child Care Partners," can provide personalized referrals and information on current openings.
What is the average cost of full-time infant or toddler daycare in Stanfield, and are there any financial assistance programs?
In the Stanfield area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $800 to $1,100 per month, while toddler care may cost between $700 and $950 per month. These costs are generally lower than in larger Oregon cities like Portland but are significant relative to local incomes. For financial assistance, Oregon's Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) program is the primary resource. It is a subsidy program for working families, those in school, or in job training. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. You can apply through the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS). Some local providers may also offer sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Stanfield, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common for the limited number of daycare slots in Stanfield, especially for infants and toddlers. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a move begin their search at least 6 to 9 months before they need care. For infant care, contacting providers as early as your second trimester is advisable. When you tour a facility or contact a home provider, always ask specifically about their waitlist process: how long it is, if there's a fee to be on it, and how often they update families on their position.
What are Oregon's key licensing requirements for childcare providers that I should verify when choosing care in Stanfield?
All licensed providers in Stanfield must meet Oregon's Early Learning Division (ELD) standards. Key requirements you should verify include: 1) **Staff-to-Child Ratios and Group Sizes:** For example, for infants (0-24 months), the ratio is 1:4 with a max group of 8. 2) **Background Checks:** All staff and household members in a home must pass criminal and child abuse background checks. 3) **Health and Safety Training:** Providers must be certified in CPR, First Aid, and prevention of infectious diseases. 4) **Annual Licensing Visits:** Providers receive unannounced visits to ensure compliance. You can view a provider's licensing history, including any complaints or violations, on the official Spark website mentioned in FAQ 1.
Given Stanfield's rural location, what questions should I ask about emergency preparedness and transportation?
Stanfield's rural setting makes emergency planning crucial. When evaluating a provider, ask: "What is your emergency plan for events like wildfires, severe winter weather, or power outages?" They should have evacuation routes, communication plans for parents, and supplies. Also inquire about field trips or transportation: "If you leave the premises, what vehicle safety protocols are followed (car seats, seat belts, driver checks)?" For school-age care, ask how they coordinate with the Stanfield School District for bus drop-offs or pick-ups. A provider's clear, detailed answers will show their preparedness for the unique aspects of a small Eastern Oregon community.