The Best Daycare Centers in Ada, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Ada. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Ada
Ohio Northern University Child Development Center
Ohio Northern University
The ONU Child Development Center operates as a laboratory school within Ohio Northern University's education department, providing exceptional early childhood education with a research-based curriculum. Staffed by highly qualified early childhood educators and supervised by university faculty, the center offers developmentally appropriate practices with low teacher-to-child ratios. The facility features modern classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and integrates technology appropriately for young learners. As part of an academic institution, they maintain rigorous safety protocols and focus on holistic child development through play-based learning, literacy development, and social-emotional growth.
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Ada Head Start
Community Action Commission of Erie, Huron & Richland Counties
Ada Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education and family support services through the federally-funded Head Start program. The center focuses on school readiness through evidence-based curriculum that addresses cognitive, social, and emotional development. All teachers meet or exceed state qualification requirements, with many holding bachelor's degrees in early childhood education. The program includes health screenings, nutritious meals, family engagement activities, and special needs support. Their approach emphasizes inclusive education, cultural sensitivity, and strong parent-teacher partnerships to ensure each child's success.
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KinderCare Learning Center at Lima
KinderCare Education
Located approximately 15 miles from Ada, this KinderCare center serves families throughout the region with a comprehensive early childhood program. The center implements KinderCare's proprietary curriculum that balances academic preparation with social development and creative expression. Features include secure keypad entry, certified teachers with ongoing professional development, age-appropriate learning centers, and structured daily schedules. The facility offers spacious classrooms, dedicated playgrounds for different age groups, and nutritionally balanced meals. Their program includes phonics-based literacy, STEM activities, and character development, with regular progress reports and parent communication.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Ada, OH
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Ada, Ohio?
In Ada, Ohio, daycare costs are generally more affordable than in larger metropolitan areas of the state. For a full-time infant, you can expect to pay between $150 to $225 per week. For toddlers and preschoolers, weekly rates typically range from $130 to $190. These costs can vary based on the type of facility (in-home licensed provider vs. center-based), the specific curriculum offered, and whether meals are included. It's important to note that Ada, being a smaller college town (home to Ohio Northern University), may have some providers that offer discounts for university faculty, staff, and students, so be sure to inquire.
How can I verify a childcare provider's license and inspection history in Ada?
All licensed childcare providers in Ada, Ohio, are regulated by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). You can verify a provider's license and view their latest inspection reports, including any compliance issues, through the publicly accessible **Ohio Child Care Search** tool online. Simply search by the provider's name, location, or county (Hardin County). This report will show their license type (Family Child Care, Child Care Center, etc.), capacity, and a history of any rule violations. You can also contact the ODJFS Office for Hardin County directly for additional verification.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Ada, and how can I secure a spot?
Due to Ada's smaller size and limited number of dedicated childcare centers, popular and highly-rated programs, especially for infants and toddlers, can have waitlists that range from a few months to over a year. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. When contacting providers, ask specific questions about their waitlist process: Is there a fee to join? How often is the list updated? Do they give preference to siblings or Ohio Northern University affiliates? Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed in-home providers in Ada and surrounding communities like Alger or Dunkirk, which may have shorter wait times.
What types of childcare programs are most commonly available in Ada?
Ada primarily offers three types of licensed childcare options. First, there are **center-based programs**, which may be independent or affiliated with local institutions like churches or Ohio Northern University. Second, **licensed family childcare homes** operate out of a provider's residence and often offer smaller group settings and more flexible hours, which can be beneficial for non-traditional schedules common in a college town. Third, there are **public preschool programs** for children ages 3-5, which may be offered through the Ada Exempted Village Schools district and often have income or developmental eligibility requirements. Due to the town's scale, specialized or niche programs (like language immersion) are less common and may require travel to nearby larger cities.
Does Ada offer any local resources or financial assistance to help with childcare costs?
Yes, there are several resources. The primary source of assistance is Ohio's **Publicly Funded Child Care** program, administered by the Hardin County Department of Job and Family Services. Eligibility is based on family income, size, and work or education requirements. Many parents at Ohio Northern University utilize this support while attending classes. Additionally, you can inquire with individual daycare providers about possible private scholarships or sliding scale fees. For long-term planning, Ohio's **529 College Advantage Plan** now allows funds to be used for K-12 tuition, but not for routine daycare expenses. It's best to contact the Hardin County JFS office directly to understand the latest eligibility guidelines and application process.