Becoming a skilled and licensed child care provider in Oklahoma means completing the required training — but that doesn’t have to be expensive. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re an experienced provider renewing your credentials, there are affordable and even #free training options available right in Oklahoma.
This article explains the most accessible training opportunities, how to make the most of them, and where to find helpful resources. By exploring low- #cost options and support programs, you can build your skills without breaking your budget.
In Oklahoma, child care providers must complete professional #development training each year to maintain their licenses. Training helps providers stay up to date on safety practices, child development, #early-learning strategies, #health guidelines, and more.
Without completed training, you may not meet state requirements and could have difficulty advancing your #career or working in licensed settings. Thankfully, there are many training opportunities that are budget-friendly or free, so you can learn without high costs.
According to state policy, child care providers in Oklahoma must complete a set number of training hours annually. These include licensing requirements and continuing education to help ensure high-quality care.
Typical requirements include:
Annual professional development hours (varies by role)
Pre-service training before beginning work
Training in health, #safety, and child development
Optional training that counts toward higher credential levels
This means providers should explore training providers that both meet state standards and fit within their budget.
One of the easiest and most affordable ways to complete required training is through ChildCareEd’s online courses. ChildCareEd is a state-approved training organization whose courses are accepted across Oklahoma for professional development and licensing requirements.
ChildCareEd offers:
Self-paced online courses you can take anywhere
Flexible scheduling to fit training around your work hours
Multilingual training options
Automatic reporting to the Oklahoma Professional Development Registry (when you add your Registry ID) so you don’t have to upload hours yourself
Explore affordable and state-approved training for Oklahoma providers here:
π ChildCareEd Courses for Child Care Providers in Oklahoma
Many of these courses cost less than traditional in-person options and often offer discounts, making it easier for providers to stay current with required learning.
Beyond online courses, there are free and discounted professional development options offered locally and through statewide programs.
Training offered through the Oklahoma Professional Development Registry and approved by the Center for Early Childhood Professional Development (CECPD) means you can find low-cost workshops and trainings throughout the state. Many are offered free or at reduced cost, especially through community partners and resource networks.
Local CCR&R agencies offer professional development workshops, group trainings, and technical assistance services at low or no cost to providers. These sessions may include:
Early childhood topics
Business #management training for family providers
Health and safety training
Peer support groups
These agencies are a great way to access learning without paying high training fees.
The Oklahoma Scholars for Excellence in Child Care Program awards scholarships to eligible child care professionals to help cover training and college coursework in #early-childhood education. The program helps providers earn credentials without shouldering all the cost on their own.
In addition to ChildCareEd and local resources, there are other approved training providers with affordable options.
This program offers on-demand online courses that are often approved for Oklahoma providers and can be completed when it’s convenient for you.
Child Care Lounge offers online classes approved in Oklahoma, providing another low-cost option for completing required training hours.
By combining these options, you can access a wide range of training topics at prices that fit your budget.
Getting affordable training can be easier with the right approach. Here are some helpful tips:
Plan ahead: Schedule your training early to take advantage of free workshops before renewal deadlines.
Mix training sources: Use a combination of online and in-person options to balance cost and learning style.
Ask about scholarships: Check if local CCR&R agencies or statewide training programs offer financial assistance.
Track your hours: Save certificates and upload them promptly to the Oklahoma Professional Development Registry.
Check eligibility: Some training programs and scholarships are limited to certain provider types, so look early.
To stay informed and supported on your training journey, you can access tools and materials designed to help you make the most of your professional development.
Explore free resources that include training tips, professional development materials, and other support for providers:
π ChildCareEd Free Resources
These resources help you find additional information on budgeting for training, planning learning pathways, and accessing support networks.
For more detailed information on navigating state-approved training and why it’s important, check out this helpful article:
π A Clear Guide to State-Approved Child Care Training in Oklahoma
This article explains the state training standards and what providers should expect when planning their professional development.
To keep up with updates, tips, and new affordable training opportunities, follow ChildCareEd on Instagram:
π ChildCareEd on Instagram