The Best Daycare Centers in Oakland, TN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Oakland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Oakland
Primrose School of Arlington
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Arlington offers a balanced learning approach combining purposeful play with nurturing guidance from degreed teachers. Their exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum focuses on character development, literacy, math, science, and social skills. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning spaces. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and provide nutritious meals. Located just minutes from Oakland, this nationally accredited center serves families throughout the region with comprehensive early education programs.
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Kiddie Academy of Cordova
Kiddie Academy
Kiddie Academy of Cordova provides educational childcare through their Life Essentials® curriculum that promotes social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development. The academy features secure facilities with coded entry, age-specific classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Their degreed teachers implement STEM activities, character education, and hands-on learning experiences. The center serves Oakland-area families with flexible scheduling options and maintains strong communication with parents through daily reports and mobile app updates.
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The Goddard School of Collierville
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Collierville offers a play-based learning approach through their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience), which emphasizes academic, social, and emotional development. The facility includes secure entry systems, multiple playgrounds, and specialized learning centers. Their faculty includes degreed teachers who create individualized learning plans and maintain low student-teacher ratios. The school serves Oakland families with comprehensive early childhood education programs and maintains excellent safety records with regular facility inspections and staff training.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Oakland, TN
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Oakland, TN, and how can I verify a facility's compliance?
In Oakland, Tennessee, all childcare facilities caring for more than four children must be licensed by the Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS). This includes family homes, group homes, and childcare centers. The licensing process involves background checks for all staff, health and safety inspections of the facility, and adherence to staff-to-child ratios based on age. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the "Find Child Care" tool on the Tennessee DHS website, which shows the license status, any recent violations, and the facility's star rating (a 1 to 3-star quality rating system). You can also contact the DHS Child Care Licensing office for the West Tennessee region directly for specific inquiries.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Oakland, TN?
The cost of daycare in Oakland, TN, is generally more affordable than in larger metropolitan areas like Memphis, but prices vary by type of care. For a licensed childcare center, full-time infant care typically ranges from $150 to $200 per week. For toddlers, the cost may drop slightly to around $130 to $180 per week. Licensed family home daycare is often a bit less expensive, averaging $120 to $170 per week for infants. These are estimates, and prices can depend on the program's amenities, hours, and inclusion of meals or curriculum. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as diapers, wipes, and formula.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with childcare costs for families in Oakland?
Yes, eligible families in Oakland can apply for the Tennessee Child Care Payment Assistance Program (CCPAP), administered by the Department of Human Services. This subsidy helps low-income working families, those in job training, or parents attending school pay for childcare at participating licensed or license-exempt providers. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care. You can apply online through the Tennessee DHS One DHS Customer Portal or contact the Fayette County DHS office for assistance, as Oakland is part of Fayette County. Additionally, some local churches or community organizations may offer limited scholarships or sliding-scale fees.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Oakland, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlist times in Oakland can vary significantly. For popular centers and for infant rooms (which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios), waitlists of 3 to 6 months are not uncommon. Some providers may have shorter lists or immediate openings, especially for older toddlers or preschool-age children. To improve your chances, it's recommended to begin your search and get on multiple lists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $25-$75). Stay in regular, polite contact with the centers every few months to express continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family homes in the area, which may have more flexibility.
What are some key factors to consider when touring a daycare facility in Oakland, given the local community and environment?
When touring a daycare in Oakland, beyond standard checks for cleanliness and safety, consider factors specific to the area. First, inquire about their emergency preparedness plans for severe weather common to West Tennessee, such as tornadoes. Ask about their outdoor play areas—are they shaded and fenced securely? Given Oakland's more rural/suburban setting, check if they incorporate any nature-based learning. Discuss their policies on communication with parents, as you may have a longer commute to work in nearby cities like Memphis or Collierville. Finally, observe the "feel" of the community; a good local daycare will often have connections to Oakland Elementary School and may participate in town events, fostering a strong sense of local care and continuity for your child.