The Best Daycare Centers in Oliver Springs, TN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Oliver Springs. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Oliver Springs
The Goddard School of Oak Ridge
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Oak Ridge offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their state-licensed teachers implement age-appropriate curriculum focusing on literacy, STEM, art, and social development. The facility features secure entry systems, modern classrooms, and outdoor play areas. With low student-to-teacher ratios and degreed educators, they provide individualized attention and comprehensive progress tracking. The school serves families throughout the Oak Ridge area, including Oliver Springs, with flexible scheduling options and nutritious meal programs.
Daycare Services:
Kids Place Learning Center
Independent
Kids Place Learning Center in Clinton provides comprehensive childcare services with a strong emphasis on early childhood development and school readiness. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum® alongside Tennessee Early Learning Developmental Standards, focusing on cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. The center features secure facilities with monitored access, age-appropriate learning environments, and outdoor playgrounds. Staff includes experienced, CPR-certified teachers with ongoing professional development. They maintain excellent safety records and offer structured learning activities, nutritious meals, and transportation services for school-age children, serving families throughout Anderson County including Oliver Springs.
Daycare Services:
The Sunshine House Early Learning Academy of Harriman
The Sunshine House
The Sunshine House in Harriman offers a comprehensive early learning program with research-based curriculum that prepares children for kindergarten success. Their approach combines literacy-focused activities, hands-on STEM exploration, and character development in a safe, nurturing environment. The facility includes secure entry systems, age-specific classrooms, and outdoor learning spaces. Certified teachers implement individualized learning plans and maintain detailed developmental progress reports. As part of a respected national network with 40+ years of experience, they provide consistent quality standards, nutritional meal programs, and flexible scheduling options that accommodate working families throughout Roane County, including Oliver Springs residents.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Oliver Springs, TN
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in Oliver Springs, TN, and how do I verify a provider's license?
In Oliver Springs, you'll primarily find licensed family childcare homes (caring for up to 7 children in a residential setting) and childcare centers. The state of Tennessee, through the Department of Human Services (DHS), licenses and regulates all childcare providers. To verify a provider's license, compliance history, and any reported violations, you must use the state's official "Child Care Provider Search" tool on the TN DHS website. You can search by the provider's name, city (Oliver Springs), or zip code. This tool is crucial as it shows the license status, capacity, and results of recent inspections. Always confirm a provider is currently licensed before enrolling your child.
What is the average cost for full-time infant or toddler daycare in Oliver Springs, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Oliver Springs and the surrounding Roane County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $130 to $180 per week, while toddler care is generally between $120 and $160 per week. These rates are often lower than in larger metropolitan areas like Knoxville but can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and staff-to-child ratios. For financial assistance, Tennessee's Child Care Payment Assistance program (subsidy) is available for eligible families through the TN DHS. Additionally, local organizations like the United Way of Roane County may offer resources or referrals for support. It's recommended to apply for state assistance well in advance due to potential waitlists.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Oliver Springs, and when should I start looking for care?
Yes, waitlists are common, especially for infant care slots and at highly-regarded centers in Oliver Springs. Due to limited capacity and high demand for quality care, parents are strongly advised to begin their search during pregnancy, ideally 6 to 9 months before their needed start date. Many local providers maintain waitlists that can be several months long. When contacting centers or home providers, ask directly about their current waitlist length and process (e.g., if a deposit is required to hold a spot). Starting early provides the most options and reduces last-minute stress.
What are some key local factors to consider when touring a daycare in Oliver Springs, like safety protocols or outdoor space?
Beyond standard state requirements, consider Oliver Springs-specific factors. First, inquire about severe weather protocols, as the area can experience storms; ask about shelter locations and emergency communication plans. Second, assess outdoor play areas—given the town's semi-rural setting, some providers may have larger, nature-focused play spaces, which is a great advantage. Check for secure fencing. Third, ask about their policy for local community outings, if any, to places like the Oliver Springs Public Library or city parks. Finally, discuss their staff's background, as in a smaller community, you may find providers with deep local roots and long tenures, which can contribute to stability.
How does Tennessee's Star-Quality Rating System work, and are there highly-rated programs near Oliver Springs?
Tennessee's voluntary Star-Quality Rating System (SQRS) is a key tool for evaluating childcare quality. Programs are rated from 1 to 3 stars, with 3 being the highest. The rating assesses learning environment, curriculum, staff qualifications, and family engagement. While not all providers in Oliver Springs participate, seeking a rated program can be a marker of quality. You can filter for rated programs using the TN DHS Child Care Search tool. Some highly-rated centers may be in nearby cities like Oak Ridge or Harriman, which some Oliver Springs parents commute to. When evaluating a local provider without a star rating, ask about the criteria directly, such as their educational approach and staff training.