The Best Daycare Centers in Ashville, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Ashville. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Ashville
Kiddie Academy of Circleville
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Circleville offers a comprehensive Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, and STEM education. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and surveillance cameras. Highly qualified teachers implement age-appropriate learning activities with low student-to-teacher ratios. The facility includes modern classrooms, dedicated playgrounds for different age groups, and nutritious meal programs. Their educational approach emphasizes social-emotional development and school readiness through hands-on learning experiences.
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Primrose School of Pickerington
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Pickerington follows the Balanced Learning® approach, blending teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. The curriculum focuses on literacy, math, science, and social studies while incorporating character development and life skills. The center features secure entry systems, trained staff in CPR/First Aid, and comprehensive safety protocols. Classrooms are designed with learning centers that encourage exploration and discovery. The school maintains high staff qualifications with ongoing professional development and offers enrichment programs including music and physical education.
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The Goddard School of Lancaster
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Lancaster implements the F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that promotes academic, social, and creative development. The center features secure premises with electronic entry systems and trained security-aware staff. Classrooms are equipped with modern learning materials and technology. The curriculum includes language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and arts with a play-based learning approach. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing training. The school offers flexible scheduling and maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios for individualized attention.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Ashville, OH
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Ashville, Ohio, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Ashville and the surrounding Pickaway County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $180 to $230 per week, while toddler care is generally between $160 and $210 per week. Preschool-age care often costs $140 to $190 weekly. These rates are generally lower than in major Ohio metro areas like Columbus but can vary based on the center's amenities and curriculum. For financial assistance, Ohio's publicly funded childcare program is administered through the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). Eligibility is based on income, work, or school requirements. Parents in Ashville can apply through the Pickaway County Department of Job and Family Services. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How do I verify a daycare provider's license and inspection history in Ashville, Ohio?
All childcare centers and most in-home providers in Ohio must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). To verify a license and view inspection reports for a provider in Ashville, you should use the **Ohio Child Care Search Tool** available on the ODJFS website. This public database allows you to search by provider name, city, or zip code (43103 for Ashville). The reports detail compliance with state regulations on staff-to-child ratios, safety standards, health practices, and training requirements. It's crucial to review these reports for any serious violations or patterns of non-compliance. You can also contact the ODJFS Office for the Central Region for specific questions.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Ashville, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to high demand and limited supply, especially for infant and toddler care, waitlists are common at many licensed daycare centers in Ashville. It's not unusual for wait times to be 3 to 9 months, particularly for coveted spots in established centers. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or at least 6 months before you need care. Contact multiple providers, get on their waitlists (which may require a small fee), and follow up with a polite call or email every 4-6 weeks. Also, consider expanding your search to nearby communities like Circleville or South Bloomfield. Exploring licensed family childcare homes in Ashville neighborhoods can also provide more immediate availability and a smaller group setting.
What are the key differences between a daycare center and a licensed family childcare home in Ashville?
In Ashville, you'll primarily find two licensed options: Child Care Centers and Licensed Family Child Care Homes. **Centers** (like those in commercial buildings) often have multiple classrooms, structured curricula, and larger groups of children with multiple staff. They typically have set hours and may offer preschool programs. **Licensed Family Homes** operate out of a provider's residence in Ashville neighborhoods. They offer a home-like environment with mixed-age groups, often providing more flexible hours and potentially lower ratios. State ratios differ: for toddlers, a center ratio is 1:7, while a family home is 1:6. Both are inspected by the state, but the home setting may feel more personal. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize a structured educational environment or a flexible, family-style setting.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare facility in Ashville?
When touring a daycare in Ashville, go beyond the basics. First, observe **interactions**: Are staff engaged at the children's level, speaking kindly and responding to needs? Second, check **safety and cleanliness**: Are outlets covered, cleaning supplies locked away, and is the play area secure? Ask about their emergency plans for severe weather common in Ohio. Third, inquire about **staff qualifications and turnover**; low turnover indicates a positive work environment. Fourth, ask about their **daily schedule**, outdoor play policy (weather permitting), and how they handle behavioral guidance. Finally, request to see their **food preparation area** if meals are provided and ask about their sick policy to understand how they prevent illness spread in a group setting. Trust your instincts about the overall atmosphere.
Childcare Insights for Ashville
Finding the right childcare is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent, and for families in Ashville, Ohio, the search for a nurturing "family day care near me" is often a top priority. Family day care, provided in a caregiver’s home, offers a unique, home-like setting with smaller group sizes, which can be an ideal fit for many children, especially infants, toddlers, and those who thrive in a cozy environment. In a close-knit community like Ashville, this model often means your child is cared for by a neighbor, building relationships that extend beyond the daycare hours and fostering a real sense of community.
When beginning your search in the Ashville area, it’s helpful to start with local resources. The State of Ohio requires all licensed family child care homes to meet specific health, safety, and educational standards. You can verify a provider’s license status through the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services website, which is a crucial first step. However, in our community, many wonderful providers are also known through word-of-mouth. Don’t hesitate to ask other parents at the Ashville Kroger, the local library events, or community gatherings like the Ashville 4th of July celebration for personal recommendations. These firsthand accounts can give you invaluable insight into the daily rhythm and philosophy of a home provider.
Considering Ashville’s location, your daily commute likely involves routes like US-23 or State Route 752. When evaluating a family day care, factor in its proximity to these major roads or your workplace, especially if you work in nearby Columbus or Circleville. A convenient location can significantly reduce stress for both you and your child. It’s also wise to ask a provider about their plan for emergencies or inclement weather, as rural parts of Pickaway County can experience power outages or road delays. A prepared provider will have a clear communication plan and backup protocols.
Once you’ve identified potential homes, scheduling a visit is essential. Go during operating hours to see the normal flow of the day. Observe how the caregiver interacts with the children—are they engaged and responsive? Look for a safe, clean, and stimulating environment with age-appropriate toys and books. In Ashville, where many families value outdoor time, a secure backyard or plans for walks to local parks is a significant plus. Ask about their daily schedule, including meals and nap times, their policy on sick children, and their approach to early learning. A great provider will welcome your questions and communicate openly.
Finally, trust your instincts. The right family day care in Ashville should feel like an extension of your own family—a place where you feel completely comfortable leaving your most precious little one. It’s a partnership built on trust and shared values. Taking the time to find the right fit means your child gains a safe, loving, and enriching second home right here in our community, giving you peace of mind as you go about your day.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Ashville: