We provide local listings of preschools and childcare centers in Oklahoma. Continue below to search the list of local childcare centers in Oklahoma. We have also listed the top cities in Oklahoma on the right side of the page.

A Guide for Parents in Oklahoma Searching for Childcare or Preschools

As a parent, securing safe, reliable, and enriching childcare or preschool for your children is a top priority. In Oklahoma, plenty of options are available, ranging from private babysitting services to state-subsidized childcare centers or preschools. This guide will walk you through the options and provide valuable information on how to obtain the support you may need.

Choosing the Right Childcare or Preschool

To find the most suitable childcare or preschool option for your child, consider your family's specific needs, such as location, cost, and schedule. Other factors may include your child's age and personal development needs, as well as the center's staff qualifications, curriculum, class size, and regulation status.

To get started, you can use Oklahoma Child Care Locator, an online tool provided by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS). This tool allows you to find licensed childcare providers within your area and provides important information about each facility.

Understanding State-Subsidized Options

Oklahoma provides several state-subsidized childcare or preschool programs for eligible families. These include Oklahoma's Head Start program, SoonerStart, and the Child Care Subsidy Program.

Head Start and Early Head Start

Oklahoma's Head Start and Early Head Start programs provide comprehensive early learning, health, and family well-being resources to low-income families with children aged birth to five, and pregnant women. Services are provided at no cost to eligible families. To apply, reach out to the nearest Head Start or Early Head Start Center.

SoonerStart

SoonerStart is Oklahoma's early intervention program, providing services to families with infants or toddlers up to three years old who have developmental delays or disabilities. The program assists with health, education, and social services. To learn more or apply, contact your local Oklahoma State Department of Health county health department.

Child Care Subsidy Program

Administered by the DHS, the Child Care Subsidy Program provides financial aid to eligible low-income families to help cover the cost of childcare while parents work or participate in education. You can check your eligibility and apply online at the official Oklahoma DHS website.

Quality Standards

Regardless of the type of childcare or preschool you choose, ensure the center meets the state's required quality standards. All childcare facilities in Oklahoma must comply with the Oklahoma Child Care Facilities Licensing Act. The DHS regularly inspects licensed facilities for compliance.

Choosing a High-Quality Childcare Provider

In Oklahoma, you can look for childcare providers with either a Two-Star or Three-Star rating - the state's measure of high-quality care. These centers have demonstrated ongoing commitment to professionalism, knowledgeability, and dedication to improving the quality of care for children.

Don't Forget Your Child's Immunization Records

Remember that all children in Oklahoma are required to have up-to-date immunizations before enrolling in childcare or preschool. You must provide an immunization record to the facility during enrollment.

Choosing the right childcare or preschool in Oklahoma can be a process, but knowing what options are available to you and how to access them can be helpful. The key is to start your search early, visit different facilities, and ask lots and lots of questions.