How to Start a Daycare in Oklahoma - post

Your step-by-step guide to opening a licensed and successful childcare business

Starting a daycare in Oklahoma can be a rewarding way to serve your community while building a fulfilling business. However, it involves careful planning, meeting state requirements, and developing skills that help you provide #safe, high-quality care. This article breaks down the process in clear, easy-to-understand steps and gives you resources to help you succeed.

Why Start a Daycare in Oklahoma?

Daycare services are in high demand across the state, providing essential support for working families. By opening a licensed childcare program, you can:

• Offer safe, nurturing care for young children

• Support child #development and learning

• Build a stable business with #growth opportunities

• Contribute to your local community

However, you must meet Oklahoma’s licensing and training requirements before you open your doors. 

Understand Oklahoma Licensing Basics

In Oklahoma, the Department of Human Services (DHS) Division of Child Care oversees childcare licenses under the Oklahoma Child Care Facilities Licensing Act. Most programs caring for children on a regular basis must be licensed. 

Types of Childcare Licenses

There are two main categories:

• Childcare Centers: Programs caring for larger groups of children in a dedicated facility.

• Family Child Care Homes: Care provided in the caregiver’s #home for a smaller number of children. 

Decide which model you want to start before moving forward.

Step-by-Step: Starting Your Daycare

1. Define Your Vision & Goals

Ask yourself:

• Who will I care for (ages, number of children)?

• Will I operate in my home or in a commercial space?

• What are my hours and curriculum style?

Clarity now will make planning and compliance easier later.

2. Create a Business Plan

Your business plan should include:

• Mission and philosophy of care

• Market analysis: Who are your families and competitors?

• Services & pricing

• Operating hours and schedule

• Start-up costs and projected income

• Budget for #staff, supplies, insurance, and training

Establishing a plan helps you stay focused and can support loan or grant applications.

3. Complete Required Training & Certifications

Oklahoma requires caregivers to complete approved training and certifications. You’ll need to meet training requirements that include:

• Entry-Level Child Care Training (often within 90 days of starting)

• CPR & First Aid certification

• Safe #sleep, child #abuse prevention, infection control, and more
  These are part of the basic licensing requirements for all providers and staff.

• 👉 Training Resource: Start your professional development with an online course such as the CDA Family Child Care Credential with Portfolio Review — ideal for fulfilling required training when opening a daycare. 

4. Choose Your Location & Get Approvals

Your daycare location must meet #safety and space requirements. Steps include:

• Fire department approval

• Health department approval

• Compliance with zoning and building codes

For family child care #homes, your residence must be suitable for children with safe #play and nap areas. 

5. Apply for Your License

To apply:

1. Contact your local Oklahoma DHS licensing specialist for guidance. 

2. Complete the application with required documentation (including #background-checks).

3. Submit proof of training, approvals, and facility compliance.

4. Schedule and pass a licensing monitoring visit.

Once approved, you’ll receive your childcare license and can begin operations.

Meet Oklahoma Staff Requirements

Your staff must meet age and education or credential requirements:

• Directors typically must be at least 21 years old and hold a credential (such as Oklahoma Professional Development Ladder certificate). 

• Teachers must be at least 18 and have a diploma or equivalent. 

• Assistant #teachers must be at least 16. 

Keeping staff well-trained helps ensure children's safety and program quality!

Stay Compliant After Opening

Licensing specialists will continue to monitor your daycare to ensure ongoing compliance. Expect:

• At least three unannounced visits per year

• Regular fire and #health inspections

• Documentation reviews and updates to training records

Maintaining compliance protects children, your license, and your reputation. 

Helpful Resources for Daycare Providers

📘 Articles & Guidance

Read more about childcare and #early-education on ChildCareEd’s blog — including topics on child development and provider training

🎁 Free Tools & Downloads

Find #free templates, activity ideas, and resources to support your daycare at ChildCareEd

📸 Get Inspired

Follow ChildCareEd on Instagram for updates, resources, and tips

Tips for Success

To give your daycare the best start:

• Engage with families: Build trust with clear communication.

• Plan your curriculum: High-quality activities keep kids engaged and growing.

• Promote your business: Use local marketing, social media, and referral networks.

• Keep learning: Ongoing professional development strengthens your program.

Continuous education and skill building for you and your staff enhances quality and helps maintain licensing requirements.

Final Thoughts

Opening a daycare in Oklahoma takes preparation, organization, and attention to detail. But with the right steps — understanding licensing rules, completing required training, securing your location, and using helpful resources — you can build a safe, compliant, and successful childcare program that supports local families and #nurtures children’s growth.