Little Rowdy Childcare Center at NSUBA achieves DHS licensure
Little Rowdy Childcare Center at NSUBA achieves DHS licensure; Now accepting applications
BROKEN ARROW, Okla. — Northeastern State University’s Broken Arrow campus announced that the Little Rowdy Childcare Center is now officially licensed by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS), further strengthening the university’s commitment to student success, family support and community engagement. With this milestone, the center is now accepting applications from NSU students, faculty, staff and families from the surrounding community.
The Little Rowdy Childcare Center offers drop-in care for children ages 8 weeks to 8 years, providing up to six hours of daily service. Operating Monday through Friday from 7 A.M. to 6 P.M., the center has long served NSU student-parents—particularly those commuting for evening classes. Now, with DHS licensure, the program is expanding its reach to serve families beyond the university community.
“This licensure affirms the quality of care our families can expect at Little Rowdy,” Denise Tyrell, director of the Little Rowdy Childcare Center, said. “We are proud to meet DHS standards and excited to welcome more children into an environment that is safe, nurturing and focused on early learning.”
Operating as a fully licensed childcare facility, the center offers a developmentally appropriate curriculum that includes literacy, math, art and large-motor play. Programming aligns with National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) standards and Oklahoma state guidelines, ensuring children receive high-quality care that supports their growth and school readiness.
Dr. Lisa Bisogno, associate dean of NSU’s College of Education, emphasized the importance of accessible childcare for students balancing academic, professional and family responsibilities.
“Reliable childcare can be the difference between staying enrolled and stepping away from school,” Bisogno said. “Little Rowdy plays a critical role in helping our students remain focused on their academic goals while knowing their children are well cared for.”
NSU President Rodney Hanley noted that the DHS licensure reflects the university’s broader mission to support students holistically while strengthening connections with the community.
“When we invest in resources like Little Rowdy, we’re investing in student success, workforce development and family well-being,” Hanley said. “Opening this center to the broader community extends that impact beyond our campus.”
Families interested in enrolling their children at the Little Rowdy Childcare Center
can learn more or apply online at coe.nsuok.edu/little-rowdy.
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