We moved back to Tyler with my toddler earlier this year and spent weeks visiting daycare options. I'm so glad we chose Live Oaks Childcare (on Colston Drive). In the months since, it's become a place of safety, learning, and comfort, for both my child and me.
From the very start, the owner and staff made an excellent impression. When I first called, they answered patiently and invited me for a tour right away. During the tour, I watched how teachers interacted with the children: kneeling down to speak face-to-face, calling kids by name, and giving hugs and encouragement. It didn't feel like a large, impersonal group setting- more like a caring, small community.
One of the big reasons I picked Live Oaks was their staff continuity. The same teacher, Ms. Mariah, has been in my child's room since day one. She knows even small changes in his mood or routine and adjusts accordingly. It builds trust when a caregiver doesn't change every few weeks.
The classroom environment is warm and bright. The toddler room has lots of age-appropriate toys, puzzles, blocks, and art supplies. There's a reading nook with cushions and soft books for quiet time. I also love that the walls display the children's own artwork and photos. That gives the kids pride and identity.
Safety is never overlooked. Gates and childproof latches are everywhere. One day, one of the little ones dropped a crayon, and instead of letting them pick it up and risk falling, a teacher gently guided them to sit and then carefully handed it back. And when one child had a small cough, staff immediately isolated that child in a quiet corner, stepped up cleaning protocols, and communicated to parents later that day how they sanitized toys and surfaces.
The daily schedule and structure are also a strength. My child has a mix of free play, guided learning, group circle time, snack, outdoor time, nap/rest, and art or music. They rotate the learning themes (colors, shapes, animals) weekly, and the teachers send home simple activity suggestions so I can reinforce at home. That kind of consistency makes the transition between home and school smoother.
Communication is excellent. I get daily sheets: what my child ate, nap times, mood changes, diapering, and any notable interactions. If something odd happens, tears, reluctance to eat, a small bump, they call me or text me right away. Once, my child was unusually tired mid-morning. They let me know, and when I picked him up early, the staff helped me with suggestions on adjusting bedtimes and naps. It showed they're not just checking boxes, but really see each child as a person.
One example that sticks out: on his birthday, the staff threw a little celebration- balloons, a healthy snack treat, and each teacher took a minute to talk to him and tell him how proud they were. He came home beaming. Small touches like that make Live Oaks feel loving, not transactional.
No place is perfect. There are busier moments that delay snack service by a few minutes, and sometimes during transitions the children get a little fussy. But staff always calm them quickly, redirect gently, or offer choices to help ease the moment. I appreciate that they don't get flustered.
All in all, Live Oaks has earned my trust. My child doesn't dread going in each morning; he waves and hugs me goodbye. For a parent, that peace of mind is priceless. If you're in Tyler looking for a childcare facility with heart, attentive teachers, good communication, and a strong sense of community, Live Oaks Childcare is a gem. read more
