The Best Daycare Centers in Warm Springs, OR
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Warm Springs. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Warm Springs
Warm Springs Early Childhood Education Center
Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs
The Warm Springs Early Childhood Education Center is the primary childcare facility serving the Warm Springs Reservation community. Operated by the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, this center provides culturally responsive early childhood education that incorporates Native American traditions and values. The facility offers comprehensive developmental programs including Head Start services, early intervention for children with special needs, and age-appropriate curriculum for infants through preschool. Staff members are trained in trauma-informed care and many are tribal members who understand the unique cultural context of the community. The center features secure facilities, nutritious meal programs, and strong parent involvement components, making it the cornerstone of early childhood education in Warm Springs.
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KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education
Located in nearby Madras, this KinderCare Learning Center serves families throughout Central Oregon, including Warm Springs residents. The center features a comprehensive educational approach with developmentally appropriate curriculum for all age groups. Their program includes phonics-based reading readiness, math concepts, science exploration, and social-emotional learning. The facility maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios with qualified early childhood educators who receive ongoing professional development. Safety features include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The center offers flexible scheduling options and serves nutritious meals and snacks. Many Warm Springs families choose this center for its structured educational program and reliable operation.
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The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Redmond serves families across Central Oregon, including Warm Springs community members seeking high-quality early childhood education. This facility offers F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic preparation with social development and citizenship. The school features purpose-built classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and technology-enhanced learning spaces. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and participate in continuous professional development. The program emphasizes STEAM learning (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) through hands-on activities. Safety protocols include secure building access, comprehensive health and cleanliness procedures, and regular communication with parents. The school's extended hours and flexible scheduling make it accessible for commuting families from Warm Springs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Warm Springs, OR
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Warm Springs, Oregon, and how do I find them?
In Warm Springs, the primary licensed childcare options are family childcare homes (operated in a provider's residence) and certified centers. Due to the community's size and rural nature, family childcare homes are particularly common. To find licensed providers, you should start with the state's official resource, the "Oregon Early Learning Division (ELD) Provider Search" website. You can filter searches for Warm Springs (Jefferson County) to see a list of currently licensed homes and centers, their capacity, and any reported violations. Additionally, the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs may offer or have information about culturally specific programs. It's also highly recommended to ask for referrals from other parents at the Warm Springs Health & Wellness Center or local community groups, as some smaller, reputable in-home providers may not be as visible online.
Are there any childcare assistance programs specifically for families living on the Warm Springs Reservation?
Yes, families residing within the Warm Springs Reservation have access to unique assistance programs. The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs often administers federal funds, such as those from the Tribal Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF), to provide subsidies for eligible tribal member families. Eligibility typically considers income, employment, or training/education enrollment. You should contact the Tribe's Social Services or Early Childhood Education department directly for application details and availability. Additionally, Oregon's statewide Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) program is available to qualifying low-income working families, but tribal-specific programs may have different eligibility criteria and can sometimes offer more tailored support and cultural integration.
What is the typical cost range for full-time daycare in Warm Springs, and how does it compare to nearby cities like Madras or Bend?
In Warm Springs, full-time daycare costs are generally lower than in larger Central Oregon cities but can vary significantly based on the provider type. For an infant in a licensed family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $600-$850 per month. For a preschool-aged child, costs may range from $500-$700 per month. These rates are often more affordable than in Madras, where center-based care can exceed $900/month for infants, and significantly less than in Bend, where infant care routinely costs $1,200-$1,500+ per month. However, the limited number of providers in Warm Springs can mean less price competition. Always confirm what is included in the rate (meals, supplies, etc.) and inquire about possible sliding scale fees through tribal or state assistance programs.
How long are waitlists for daycare in Warm Springs, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to limited provider options in this rural community, waitlists for licensed childcare in Warm Springs can be long, often several months to over a year, especially for infant care. To improve your chances, start your search as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy. Contact every licensed provider listed for the area to get on their waitlist, even if their current availability doesn't match your needed start date. Be proactive and check in every few months to update your information and express continued interest. Also, explore less formal networks: consider asking about potential in-home providers through community bulletin boards at the Warm Springs Market or the Community Center. Being flexible with your start date or hours can also help.
What are the state licensing requirements for childcare providers in Oregon, and how can I verify a provider's compliance in Warm Springs?
All childcare providers in Oregon caring for more than three children unrelated to them must be licensed or certified by the Oregon Early Learning Division (ELD). Key requirements include background checks, health and safety training (including CPR/First Aid), ongoing professional development, and adherence to strict ratios and group sizes (e.g., 1:4 for infants). Family childcare homes are subject to annual unannounced inspections. To verify a Warm Springs provider's compliance, use the free online "**Oregon Child Care Licensing Search Tool**" on the ELD website. This public portal shows a provider's license status, capacity, any serious licensing violations (like "valid non-compliances"), and inspection reports. You can also call the ELD's Central Office for information. Always visit a potential provider in person to observe the environment and ask to see their current license certificate.