The Best Daycare Centers in Akron, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Akron. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Akron
Primrose School of Fairlawn
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Fairlawn offers a balanced learning approach through their exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum, combining teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. The school features highly qualified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development, secure entry systems with coded access, and modern classroom environments. Their curriculum emphasizes character development, literacy, math, science, and social skills through hands-on learning experiences. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, dedicated art and music rooms, and comprehensive safety protocols. Parents consistently praise the school's communication, structured environment, and the developmental progress children demonstrate.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Akron
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Akron provides a play-based learning environment through their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program, focusing on academic, social, and emotional development. The school employs state-certified teachers with early childhood education backgrounds and maintains low student-teacher ratios. Features include secure keypad entry, live streaming for parents, modern classrooms with natural lighting, and outdoor learning environments. The curriculum incorporates STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) activities, language development, and social-emotional learning. Parents highlight the school's nurturing atmosphere, comprehensive communication through daily reports, and the staff's dedication to individual child development.
Daycare Services:
KinderCare Learning Center at Montrose
KinderCare Education
KinderCare at Montrose offers a research-based curriculum aligned with Ohio's early learning standards, focusing on literacy, math, science, and social development. The center features experienced early childhood educators with ongoing training in child development and safety protocols. Security measures include coded entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. The facility includes age-separated playgrounds, dedicated learning centers in each classroom, and nutritious meal programs. The center is noted for its inclusive environment, individualized learning plans, and strong parent-teacher partnerships. Parents consistently commend the center's structured yet flexible approach and the visible academic and social growth in children.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Akron, OH
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Akron, Ohio?
In Akron, the average cost for full-time, center-based infant care ranges from approximately $900 to $1,300 per month. For toddlers, the cost is typically slightly lower, averaging between $800 and $1,100 per month. These rates can vary based on the specific neighborhood, the center's amenities (like cameras or specialized curriculum), and whether it's a nationally accredited chain or a local, independent provider. Home-based family childcare in Summit County is often a more affordable option, generally ranging from $600 to $900 per month. It's important to note that these costs are often lower than the state average for major metropolitan areas, but still represent a significant portion of a family's budget. Many providers in Akron participate in the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) Publicly Funded Child Care program, which can offer financial assistance to eligible families.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Akron?
All licensed childcare providers in Akron are regulated by the State of Ohio. The most reliable resource is the **Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) Child Care Search Tool**. You can search by provider name, location, or type (center or family childcare home) to view their current license status, capacity, and age ranges served. Crucially, this database includes copies of the provider's most recent inspection reports, which detail any compliance issues or rule violations. For additional local context, parents can contact the **Summit County Children Services** or the **Early Childhood Resource Center** in Akron, which may have further community insights or quality ratings through programs like Step Up To Quality (SUTQ), Ohio's voluntary quality rating system.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Akron, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common for infant care spots at highly-rated centers in Akron, particularly those with high SUTQ (Step Up To Quality) star ratings or those affiliated with major employers like Cleveland Clinic Akron General or Summa Health. For infant rooms, it is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists **6 to 12 months** before your needed start date. For toddler and preschool-aged children, waitlists may be shorter, but starting your search 3-6 months in advance is still prudent. Many centers in neighborhoods like Highland Square, Fairlawn, and near downtown tend to have the longest waits. Always ask specific centers about their current waitlist length and whether they charge a fee to hold your spot.
What are some unique or highly-regarded childcare options specific to the Akron area?
Akron offers several distinctive childcare options rooted in the community. The **Akron Zoo** offers nature-based preschool programs. The **Akron-Summit County Public Library** system hosts early literacy programs that many daycarts incorporate into their schedules. For a focus on arts and creativity, the **National Inventors Hall of Fame STEM School** and programs at places like **The Akron Children's Museum** are popular. Furthermore, Akron is home to many high-quality faith-based centers associated with local churches. For parents seeking a specific educational philosophy, there are Montessori (e.g., Akron Montessori School) and Reggio Emilia-inspired programs. The **Early Childhood Resource Center** is an excellent hub for discovering and comparing these local options.
What resources are available in Akron for parents seeking help with special needs childcare or early intervention services?
Akron is well-served by several key organizations. The **Akron Public Schools' Child Development Center** provides inclusive preschool programs and evaluations. **Summit County Developmental Disabilities Board (SCDDB)** is a primary resource, offering early intervention services (Help Me Grow) for children from birth to age three, and support for finding inclusive childcare settings. **Akron Children's Hospital** also has extensive developmental and behavioral health services that can provide referrals and support plans for childcare providers. When touring daycares in Akron, ask specifically about their experience with inclusion, staff training, and their willingness to collaborate with these outside agencies to create an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) or other support structures.