The Best Daycare Centers in Covington, KY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Covington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Covington
The Goddard School of Fort Mitchell
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Fort Mitchell offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Their highly qualified teachers implement play-based learning through structured curriculum in literacy, STEM, arts, and physical development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play spaces. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and provide daily communication through their proprietary app. The school is known for its comprehensive safety protocols, nutritious meal programs, and strong parent community involvement.
Daycare Services:
Primrose School of Crestview Hills
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Crestview Hills delivers the Balanced Learning® approach, combining teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a focus on character development and academics. Their curriculum includes literacy development, math and science exploration, music, and physical activity. The school features secure facilities with coded entry, dedicated infant rooms with individualized care plans, and spacious outdoor learning environments. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the school maintains rigorous health and safety standards including comprehensive background checks and ongoing staff training.
Daycare Services:
Childtime of Edgewood
Childtime Learning Centers
Childtime of Edgewood provides comprehensive early education through their proprietary Emergent Curriculum that adapts to children's interests while meeting developmental milestones. The center offers age-specific learning environments with dedicated spaces for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, all equipped with modern educational materials. Their program emphasizes literacy development, social skills, and kindergarten readiness through hands-on learning experiences. The facility includes secure entry systems, outdoor playgrounds with safety surfacing, and nutritional meal programs. Staff undergo continuous professional development and maintain CPR/first aid certification, with many teachers holding advanced degrees in early childhood education.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Covington, KY
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Covington, Kentucky, and how can I verify a facility's license?
In Covington and throughout Kentucky, childcare centers and certified family childcare homes must be licensed by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), Division of Child Care. Licensing ensures providers meet minimum standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications, and facility safety. You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any serious violations through the state's online "Child Care Finder" tool on the CHFS website. It's highly recommended to use this tool as a first step in your search and to ask any prospective daycare for their license number.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Covington, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In Covington and the greater Northern Kentucky area, average costs for full-time, center-based infant care typically range from $180 to $250 per week. Toddler care is slightly less, often between $160 and $220 per week. Costs can vary based on the center's location, amenities, and curriculum. For financial assistance, Kentucky's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps eligible low-income families, those in job training, or those pursuing education. You apply through the local Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) office. Additionally, some Covington centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Covington, and what's the best strategy for securing a spot?
Yes, waitlists are common for infant rooms and highly-rated centers in Covington, especially in popular neighborhoods like MainStrasse or near major employers. Wait times can range from a few months to over a year. The best strategy is to start your search early, ideally during pregnancy. Contact multiple centers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee. Follow up periodically to express continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in surrounding areas like Latonia or Park Hills, which may have shorter wait times while still providing quality care.
What are some key local resources for finding and evaluating childcare options in Covington?
Beyond the state's Child Care Finder, a vital local resource is **4C for Children**, the child care resource and referral agency serving Northern Kentucky. They offer a free, personalized referral service to match your family's needs with local providers, provide guidance on what to look for during a visit, and offer information on quality indicators. The City of Covington and the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce may also have listings. For evaluating quality, look for providers participating in Kentucky's STARS for KIDS NOW quality rating system—a higher star rating (1-4) indicates a program that exceeds minimum licensing standards.
How does Covington's proximity to Cincinnati, Ohio, affect childcare options and regulations for commuting parents?
Covington's location directly across the Ohio River from Cincinnati means many parents commute to Ohio for work. It's important to note that childcare subsidies and regulations are state-specific. If you work in Ohio but live in Kentucky, you must apply for the Kentucky CCAP program (not Ohio's). Your chosen daycare must be a Kentucky-licensed provider. For commuting parents, considering a daycare's operating hours is crucial; some Covington centers may offer extended hours to accommodate longer commutes to downtown Cincinnati. Always confirm drop-off and pick-up times to ensure they align with your cross-river commute schedule.