The Best Daycare Centers in Sheppard AFB, TX
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Sheppard AFB. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Sheppard AFB
Sheppard AFB Child Development Center
United States Air Force
The Sheppard AFB Child Development Center is a Department of Defense certified facility offering comprehensive early childhood education programs specifically designed for military families. The center features a research-based curriculum focusing on cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. All staff undergo extensive background checks and receive ongoing professional development in early childhood education. The facility includes secure access controls, modern classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and nutritional meal programs. What sets this center apart is its understanding of military family needs, offering flexible scheduling and support during deployments and transitions.
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Primrose School of Wichita Falls
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Wichita Falls is a nationally accredited early education center serving families from Sheppard AFB and surrounding areas. The facility implements the exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum, which blends teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a focus on character development and academic readiness. Features include secure keypad entry, live streaming cameras for parent viewing, certified teachers with early childhood credentials, and purpose-built learning environments. The center offers enrichment programs in music, art, and physical education, along with healthy meals prepared in their on-site kitchen. Many military families choose this center for its structured curriculum and high staff-to-child ratios.
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The Goddard School of Wichita Falls
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Wichita Falls provides a premier early childhood education experience with F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that promotes academic, social, and creative development. The school features state-licensed teachers with degrees in early childhood education, secure entry systems, and modern classrooms equipped with SMART Board technology. Their play-based learning approach includes STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) activities, language development programs, and outdoor learning spaces. The center maintains excellent staff retention and offers flexible scheduling to accommodate military family needs, including extended hours for shift workers at Sheppard AFB.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Sheppard AFB, TX
What are the primary childcare options available for military families stationed at Sheppard AFB, and how do I access them?
Military families at Sheppard AFB have several key options. The most direct is the Sheppard AFB Child Development Center (CDC), which offers full-day, part-day, and hourly care for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. Priority is given based on a family's military status. You must register through the MilitaryChildCare.com website, which is the Department of Defense's centralized system for finding and requesting childcare at installations worldwide. Additionally, there are often Family Child Care (FCC) homes on base—licensed providers who care for children in their private residences. Off-base, Wichita Falls has numerous licensed childcare centers and homes. It's crucial to get on the CDC waitlist as soon as you have orders, as spots can be limited.
How does the cost of childcare at the Sheppard AFB CDC compare to off-base options in Wichita Falls, and how are fees determined?
Childcare costs at the Sheppard AFB CDC are typically more affordable than most off-base centers in Wichita Falls due to a subsidized fee structure. Your fees are calculated based on your Total Family Income (TFI), not per child, making it cost-effective for families with multiple children. The DoD sets specific fee categories, so your cost is predictable. Off-base in Wichita Falls, you can expect to pay market rates, which for infant care can average $800-$1,000+ per month per child, with preschool-age care slightly less. Always verify if off-base centers participate in the Texas Workforce Commission's childcare subsidy program, which can help offset costs for eligible families.
What is the typical waitlist time for the Child Development Center at Sheppard AFB, and what can I do while waiting for a spot?
Waitlist times for the Sheppard AFB CDC can vary significantly by age group, with infant and toddler spots being the most in-demand. It's not uncommon for waits to be several months long, especially during peak PCS (Permanent Change of Station) seasons. While waiting, you should: 1) Explore the on-base Family Child Care (FCC) network through the FCC Coordinator, as these homes may have immediate openings. 2) Use the referral services at the Airman & Family Readiness Center (A&FRC) for vetted off-base providers. 3) Consider registering with a reputable off-base center in Wichita Falls as a temporary solution. Staying in contact with the CDC administration for updates is also recommended.
What are Texas state licensing requirements for childcare providers, and how can I verify the licensing status of an off-base center in Wichita Falls?
Texas childcare licensing, managed by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), sets standards for staff-to-child ratios, safety, health, and training. For example, for infants (0-11 months), the ratio is 1:4. You can and should verify the license of any off-base provider. Use the Texas HHSC "Child Care Licensing Search" website to look up a specific center or home in Wichita Falls. This public database shows the provider's license status, any past violations, and inspection reports. The Airman & Family Readiness Center at Sheppard AFB can also assist you in understanding these reports and what specific violations mean for your child's safety and care quality.
Are there any unique childcare programs or support services at Sheppard AFB for parents with non-traditional or shift work schedules?
Yes, Sheppard AFB offers specific programs to support military families with variable schedules. The CDC provides "Hourly Care" subject to availability, which can be reserved for appointments, errands, or short-term needs. The Family Child Care (FCC) network is often more flexible with hours, including nights and weekends, to accommodate shift workers. For school-age children (grades K-12), the Youth Center offers before and after-school programs, as well as full-day care during most school holidays and summer breaks through their School-Age Care (SAC) program. Always communicate your schedule needs directly with the CDC, FCC Coordinator, or Youth Center to explore available accommodations.
Nearby Cities
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