Entrusting your child to someone else’s care is one of the hardest decisions you’ll ever make. Whether you’re a first-time parent or navigating care for your second or third child, that little tug in your heart is real. You’re not just picking a daycare – you’re choosing the people, the routines, and the environment that will shape your child’s earliest years.
As a parent, I know that knot in your stomach. The endless “what ifs.” The late-night scrolling through websites for “Tulsa daycare” or “daycare near me.” The questions about safety, learning, and love. The truth is: this decision matters more than most. The early years are the foundation for everything that comes after.
A great day care isn’t just a place to pass the time – it’s a safe, nurturing environment where your child learns, grows, and feels deeply cared for. And finding the right fit for your family means going beyond price tags or convenience. It’s about peace of mind.
If you’re searching for the right Tulsa daycare, Owasso daycare, or even a small home daycare nearby, this guide will walk you through the five essential qualities you should always look for. These aren’t just items on a checklist – they’re the heart of what makes childcare safe, enriching, and joyful.
Why Choosing the Right Day Care Matters
Research shows that approximately 90% of a child’s brain development happens before the age of five. Every story read, every song sung, and every hug exchanged is wiring your child’s brain for future learning. That’s why early childhood education and the environment your child spends their days in are so important.
When choosing a child development center or licensed daycare, you want more than supervision. You want:
- Peace of mind – knowing your child is safe, protected, and loved.
- Confidence – that your child is actively learning and thriving, not just “being watched.”
Whether you’re considering infant care, toddler care, or pre-K programs, the right childcare services will give you both.
Let’s break down what truly matters when evaluating a daycare center or even a home daycare.
1. Safety Comes First
Nothing is more important than your child’s safety. When visiting a potential daycare center, pay close attention to both the visible and behind-the-scenes safety measures.
Key safety features to look for include:
- Secure doors with keypad or parent check-in systems.
- Visitor policies that prevent strangers from entering unannounced.
- Staff background checks and training in CPR and first aid.
- Clearly posted emergency procedures for fire drills, severe weather, or medical needs.
Here in Oklahoma, tornadoes and sudden storms are a reality. That means your daycare should have a clear emergency plan for sheltering children quickly.
When you hand over your baby at an infant daycare or drop off your preschooler for toddler learning, you should never doubt their security. A licensed daycare will always be upfront about their policies and willing to walk you through their safety steps without hesitation.
Pro tip for parents: On your tour, ask: “How do you notify parents in an emergency?” Their answer should give you reassurance.
2. Clean, Bright, and Kid-Friendly Spaces
Children learn best in environments that are both clean and stimulating. Step into the classroom and take a good look around. Ask yourself:
- Is it clean without feeling sterile?
- Are toys, books, and activities easily accessible at kid’s level?
- Do the walls feature children’s artwork, learning charts, and visual aids?
- Are there cozy spots for reading and open spaces for play?
The best child care centers balance order with creativity. Too sterile, and kids may feel stifled. Too chaotic, and hygiene or safety could be an issue. Imagine your child walking into a classroom filled with colorful art, a cozy rug for circle time, and bins of blocks waiting to be turned into towers. That’s the kind of environment that sparks imagination and joy. Don’t forget the outdoors. Playgrounds should be clean, well-maintained, and age-appropriate. Outdoor play isn’t just for burning energy – it builds coordination, social skills, and confidence.
3. Teachers Who Truly Care
The heart of any daycare is its teachers. Loving, patient, and attentive caregivers transform childcare from “just watching” into meaningful, nurturing experiences.
Here’s what to notice about staff interactions:
- Do they kneel to eye level when talking with children?
- Do they use children’s names often?
- Do they show patience, even during meltdowns?
- Do they encourage independence while still offering help?
The best teachers see every child as unique. They celebrate small victories—like tying a shoe or finishing a puzzle – and they comfort in tough moments. Whether you’re visiting an infant daycare or a pre-K classroom, teachers should radiate warmth. Children thrive when they feel seen, valued, and loved.
Red flag: If you see staff keep scrolling phones or seeming disengaged, it’s a sign to keep looking.
4. Strong Communication with Parents
You deserve to know what’s happening during the day. The best childcare services treat parents as partners, not outsiders.
Ask:
- Do they send updates, photos, or daily reports?
- How do they handle milestones, concerns, or discipline?
- Are they open to your questions and suggestions?
Some centers use apps to send instant updates – others may prefer end-of-day reports. Either way, consistent and open communication is key. For parents of infants, this might mean knowing how many ounces of milk your baby drank or how many naps they took. For parents of toddlers, it might be updates on potty training progress or new words learned. When communication is strong, you’ll feel connected even when you’re apart.
5. Joyful, Engaged Kids
Here’s the ultimate test: watch the children.
Do they look happy, comfortable, and curious? Do you hear laughter, chatter, and music? Children can’t fake joy.
Signs of an engaging environment include:
- Kids proudly showing their artwork.
- Groups singing songs during circle time.
- Toddlers exploring sensory bins with excitement.
- Preschoolers working together on puzzles or pretend play.
When kids feel safe and engaged, they thrive. And when you see that joy firsthand, you’ll know you’ve found the right place.
The Role of Curriculum in Daycare
Safety and love are essential – but so is learning. Not all daycares emphasize curriculum, but the best ones incorporate structured learning through play.
Two well-respected approaches often seen in Tulsa and Owasso childcare include:
- Abeka Curriculum – A Christian-based program that emphasizes phonics, early literacy, and building a strong academic foundation through structured lessons.
- FunShine Express – A play-based curriculum that blends literacy, math, and social skills through creative projects, songs, and hands-on activities.
Both offer age-appropriate ways for children to explore the world while developing key skills. Whether your child is learning to recognize letters or discovering how plants grow, a strong curriculum supports their growth. When touring, ask: “What curriculum do you use?” and “How do you balance play with learning?”
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Not all childcare options are created equal. Be cautious if you notice:
- Staff who seem disengaged or overwhelmed.
- Classrooms that are unusually quiet (kids should be engaged, not silenced).
- Defensive or vague answers to your questions.
- Poor cleanliness or obvious safety gaps.
- High staff turnover, which can affect consistency for your child.
Trust your instincts. If something feels “off,” it probably is.
Questions Every Parent Should Ask
When touring a daycare, bring a list of questions to get beyond the brochure:
- What’s your teacher-to-child ratio?
- How do you handle discipline?
- What’s a typical daily schedule?
- How do you support children with different learning styles?
- How do you handle food allergies or special diets?
- What’s your sick policy?
- How do you prepare children for kindergarten?
The answers will reveal not only the policies but also the values of the center.
The Emotional Side of Choosing Childcare
Even with the perfect checklist, the emotional side of this decision is real. The first drop-off can bring tears – for both you and your child. But the right daycare will ease those fears. Instead of worrying all day, you’ll smile when you get a photo update of your toddler painting. Instead of dreading pick-up, you’ll look forward to hearing your child’s excited stories. Daycare isn’t just about supervision – it’s about building trust, relationships, and memories.
Understanding Daycare Cost and Value
For many families, daycare prices are a major factor. Costs vary depending on location, age group, and type of care. Infant care is often higher because of lower ratios and specialized attention. When comparing, don’t just look at numbers. Consider what’s included: meals, diapers, curriculum, extended hours, or enrichment activities. The cheapest option isn’t always the best. Think of quality early childhood education as an investment in your child’s future.
Why Tulsa Parents Choose Wildflowers Daycare
Here in Tulsa, families have many choices—from small home daycare providers to large child development centers. But Wildflowers has earned the trust of local parents because we’re more than a daycare—we’re a community.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Safety First: Secure entry, licensed staff, and storm preparedness.
- Loving Teachers: Every child is treated like family.
- Learning Through Play: From story time to science projects, kids learn while having fun.
- Daily Updates: Parents always know what their child is doing.
- Community Roots: Proudly serving Tulsa and Owasso families with heart.
Whether you’re searching for infant daycare, toddler learning programs, or a trusted preschool, Wildflowers offers the balance of safety, love, and learning every parent hopes for.
Final Thoughts: Trusting Your Heart
Choosing a daycare isn’t just about convenience – it’s about entrusting someone with your greatest treasure. It takes research, visits, and a healthy dose of trusting your instincts. If you’re a Tulsa or Owasso parent looking for quality childcare services, remember these five qualities: safety, environment, caring teachers, communication, and joy. Together, they create the foundation for a daycare experience where your child can truly thrive.
Take your time. Ask questions. Visit centers. And when you find the right place, you’ll know – because both your heart and your child will feel at home.
Looking for the best daycare near you in Tulsa or Owasso? Schedule a tour with Wildflowers Daycare today and see why so many families trust us with their children’s early years. Visit www.wildflowersdaycare.org or follow us on social media to learn more about us.
