Quality of State Child Care Factors Into State's National Ranking

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Parents Magazine has ranked Oklahoma City one of its "10 Best Cities for Babies," due in part to the quality and affordability of child care in the state.
"High-quality child care costs less in Oklahoma than in other states. The average bill for full-time infant care is $6,000 to $7,000 per year, considerably lower than that of many other states," the article said. "Plus, the state picks up part of the cost for lower-income families."

Other factors supporting Oklahoma City's number nine ranking were the recent $700 million MAPS for Kids initiative to boost education; Mayor Mick Cornett's program to encourage residents to lose one million pounds; and a recent survey indicating more than 80 percent of residents believe Oklahoma City is a good or great place to raise a family.

Parents Magazine rated the state's child care, A+; fun for parents and babies, A; infant health and money matters, both B-; and family safety, C+.

Among the magazine's "Best Big Cities for Babies," Oklahoma City fared even better, coming in at number three. A big city was defined as having a population of 350,000 and up. Tulsa was ranked number 19 in the survey for big cities.

Visit Parents Magazine to read the complete story. (Link opens in new window)