The Best Preschools in Shawnee, OK
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Shawnee. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Shawnee
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Shawnee is a highly-rated early childhood education center offering play-based learning with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience). The facility features state-of-the-art security systems, keypad entry, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their curriculum focuses on academic readiness, social development, and emotional growth, with qualified teachers implementing developmentally appropriate practices. The school maintains small class sizes and offers enrichment programs including yoga, music, and Spanish. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, clean facilities, and comprehensive educational approach.
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Primrose School of Oklahoma City - South
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Oklahoma City - South serves families in the broader Shawnee area with their Balanced Learning® curriculum that blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance. The facility features secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and rigorous safety protocols. Their curriculum includes character development, literacy, mathematics, and science, delivered by degreed early childhood educators. The school offers extended hours and summer programs, with parents consistently praising the structured learning environment, experienced teachers, and strong communication between staff and families.
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Happy Times Learning Center
Independent
Happy Times Learning Center is a well-established local preschool in Shawnee offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. The center provides a structured curriculum that prepares children for kindergarten while emphasizing social skills and emotional development. Their facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, secure playgrounds, and maintains strict safety protocols including controlled access. The experienced teaching staff focuses on individualized attention and developmentally appropriate practices. Parents appreciate the consistent communication, caring environment, and the center's long-standing reputation in the Shawnee community.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Shawnee, OK:
What is the average cost of preschool in Shawnee, OK, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Shawnee, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $150 to $450, depending on the program type, hours, and whether it's a church-affiliated, private, or public school-based program. For financial assistance, Oklahoma offers the state-funded Early Childhood Four-Year-Old Program (EC-4) through Shawnee Public Schools for qualifying families, and many local centers accept DHS childcare subsidies. It's best to contact individual preschools directly to inquire about their specific tuition rates and any available scholarships.
How can I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Shawnee?
All licensed childcare centers and preschools in Shawnee are regulated by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS). You can search for a provider's licensing history, including any compliance reports, on the OKDHS Child Care Locator website. Additionally, you can ask if the program is accredited by a national organization like NAEYC or participates in Oklahoma's Reaching for the Stars quality rating system, which provides further indicators of program quality.
What are the typical enrollment timelines and age requirements for preschools in Shawnee?
Most Shawnee preschools have a minimum age requirement of 3 or 4 years old by September 1st, aligning with the public school cutoff. Enrollment for the fall term often begins as early as January or February, with many popular programs filling quickly. For public school-based Pre-K programs like those at Shawnee Public Schools, you must register directly through the district, and specific dates are announced on their website each spring.
What types of preschool programs are most common in Shawnee, OK?
Shawnee offers a mix of preschool options, including faith-based programs at local churches, private daycare centers with preschool curricula, and the state-funded EC-4 program within Shawnee Public Schools elementary sites. You'll also find Montessori-inspired and play-based approaches. The public school program is a significant resource, providing a structured, school-day schedule at no cost for eligible four-year-olds.
Are there considerations specific to Shawnee that I should ask about when touring a preschool?
Yes, when touring in Shawnee, inquire about their severe weather safety protocols, including access to storm shelters, given Oklahoma's climate. Also, ask about their policies for school closures or delays that may align with Shawnee Public Schools' decisions. For convenience, consider the preschool's proximity to major routes like Highway 177 or I-40 if you have a commute, and ask about before/after care options if your work schedule doesn't match standard preschool hours.
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