The Best Daycare Centers in Oakfield, WI
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Oakfield. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Oakfield
The Learning Experience - Fond du Lac
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Fond du Lac provides comprehensive early childhood education with their proprietary L.E.A.P. curriculum, focusing on literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and surveillance cameras. Highly qualified teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, indoor gymnasium, and secure outdoor playgrounds. Their enrichment programs include phonics, foreign language, and yoga, with a strong emphasis on character development and social-emotional learning.
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KinderCare at Fond du Lac
KinderCare Learning Companies
KinderCare Fond du Lac offers research-based curriculum aligned with state early learning standards, featuring hands-on learning centers and individualized instruction. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios with all lead teachers holding early childhood credentials. Safety protocols include secured entry systems, regular safety drills, and comprehensive background checks. The facility provides nutritious meals and snacks through their cooking program. Their approach emphasizes literacy development, STEM exploration, and social skills through structured play and guided activities in well-equipped classrooms and outdoor learning environments.
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Little Saints Childcare & Learning Center
Little Saints Early Learning Centers
Little Saints provides a nurturing Christian-based educational environment with comprehensive early learning programs. Their curriculum integrates faith-based values with academic preparation, focusing on kindergarten readiness through structured literacy and math programs. The center features small class sizes with experienced teachers who maintain ongoing training in early childhood development. Safety measures include secured facilities, comprehensive health protocols, and regular communication with parents through digital platforms. The program emphasizes character development, social skills, and individualized learning plans in well-maintained, age-appropriate learning spaces.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Oakfield, WI
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Oakfield, WI, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Oakfield, Wisconsin, all group and family child care centers must be licensed by the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF). This involves rigorous background checks for all staff, health and safety training (including CPR and Shaken Baby Syndrome prevention), regular facility inspections for fire safety and sanitation, and adherence to strict staff-to-child ratios based on age. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the DCF's "Child Care Finder" website or call their licensing specialist for the region. It's highly recommended to always check this before enrolling your child, as it ensures basic health, safety, and quality standards are met.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Oakfield, and when should I start looking for infant care?
Due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants (children under 2 years old), waitlists at licensed daycare centers in Oakfield can be significant. It is common for families to encounter waitlists of 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer for highly sought-after providers. We strongly advise parents to begin their search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible—ideally during the second trimester of pregnancy. Don't hesitate to check in periodically with centers to confirm your spot on the list and inquire about their specific timeline.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare for a toddler in Oakfield, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
The average cost for full-time, center-based care for a toddler (age 2-3) in the Oakfield area typically ranges from $225 to $300 per week. Family-based daycare may be slightly less, averaging $180 to $250 per week. Costs can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum, and hours of operation. For financial assistance, Wisconsin's Child Care Subsidy Program (also known as Wisconsin Shares) helps eligible low-income families. You apply through the Fond du Lac County Department of Social Services. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly.
Are there any unique childcare options in Oakfield that incorporate outdoor or farm-based learning, given the area's rural setting?
Yes, Oakfield's rural character does offer some unique childcare options. There are a few licensed family child care providers and smaller centers that emphasize nature-based play and learning. Some may have large outdoor play areas, gardens, or even partnerships with local farms for seasonal activities. While not a formal "farm preschool," these programs often integrate animals, gardening, and exploration of the natural world into their daily routines. To find these, search for "nature-based" or "play-based" programs in the DCF Child Care Finder and be sure to ask providers specifically about their outdoor curriculum and facilities during tours.
What resources are available in Oakfield to help me evaluate and choose between different daycare providers?
Beyond the state's licensing verification tool, a key local resource is **Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) of Fond du Lac County**. They offer free, personalized referrals to licensed providers in Oakfield and the surrounding area, and can provide guidance on what to look for during a visit. They also maintain records of any past licensing violations. We recommend scheduling tours and asking each provider for references from current parents. Additionally, connecting with local parent groups on social media or through the Oakfield Elementary School can provide invaluable firsthand insights and recommendations from other families in your community.