The Best Daycare Centers in Athens, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Athens. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Athens
Ohio University Child Development Center
Ohio University
The Ohio University Child Development Center is a nationally accredited facility that serves as both a childcare center and a laboratory school for early childhood education students. The center implements a research-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum that emphasizes play-based learning, social-emotional development, and school readiness. Staff includes highly qualified early childhood educators with bachelor's and master's degrees, maintaining excellent teacher-to-child ratios. The facility features modern classrooms, extensive outdoor learning environments, and comprehensive safety protocols. Parents particularly praise the educational quality, teacher qualifications, and the center's commitment to individualized child development.
Daycare Services:
The Plains Early Childhood Education Center
Athens City School District
The Plains Early Childhood Education Center operates as part of the Athens City School District, providing high-quality early education with a focus on school readiness and developmental milestones. The center utilizes the Creative Curriculum system, incorporating literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies through hands-on learning experiences. Certified early childhood educators and intervention specialists provide individualized instruction, with particular strength in inclusive education for children with diverse learning needs. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and comprehensive health and safety measures. Parents consistently report excellent communication and significant developmental progress in their children.
Daycare Services:
Hocking College Child Development Center
Hocking College
Hocking College Child Development Center serves the broader Athens County area with a comprehensive early childhood program that combines educational excellence with practical training for early childhood education students. The center implements a child-centered approach with emergent curriculum that follows children's interests while addressing key developmental domains. Staff includes experienced early childhood professionals and college faculty, maintaining NAEYC-aligned standards for quality. The facility features dedicated infant and toddler rooms, preschool classrooms, and nature-based outdoor learning environments. Parents highlight the nurturing environment, educational programming, and the center's commitment to building strong foundational skills for lifelong learning.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Athens, OH
What is the typical cost range for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Athens, Ohio?
In Athens, the cost of full-time daycare varies significantly based on the type of provider. For center-based care, you can expect to pay between $800 to $1,200 per month for an infant. Home-based family childcare is often more affordable, typically ranging from $600 to $900 per month. These costs are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, and facility amenities. It's important to note that as part of a university town, some campus-affiliated centers may have different fee structures for students, faculty, and staff. Financial assistance is available through programs like Ohio's publicly funded childcare, which uses a sliding fee scale based on income, and the Athens County Department of Job and Family Services can help determine eligibility.
Are daycare waitlists common in Athens, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common for daycare centers in Athens, especially for infants and toddlers. Due to high demand and limited infant-care slots (driven by strict Ohio licensing ratios), it is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin their search during the first or second trimester of pregnancy. For popular centers affiliated with Ohio University or those with high ratings, waitlists can be 6 to 12 months long. For preschool-age children (3-5 years), the wait may be shorter, but starting your search at least 4-6 months in advance is still advisable. Be prepared to place a deposit to secure a spot on a waitlist and to check in periodically with providers for updates.
What are the key differences between a licensed childcare center and a licensed family childcare home in Athens?
In Athens, both types are licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS), but they operate differently. Licensed **Centers** are typically larger facilities with multiple classrooms and staff. They often follow a structured educational curriculum, have set hours, and may be part of a chain or affiliated with an institution like Ohio University. **Licensed Family Childcare Homes** operate out of the provider's residence, caring for a smaller, mixed-age group of up to 6 children (or 12 with an assistant). They often offer a more home-like, flexible environment and may have more variable hours. Both must meet state health, safety, and training standards, but centers are subject to more frequent unannounced inspections. Your choice may depend on your child's need for socialization versus a smaller, family-style setting.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Athens?
Ohio provides a public, online tool called the **Ohio Child Care Search** (through the ODJFS website). Here, you can search for any licensed provider in Athens by name or location. The profile will show their current license status, capacity, age ranges served, and any compliance history. Crucially, you can view reports from recent inspections, including any cited violations (non-compliance) and the steps taken to correct them. You can also contact the Athens County Department of Job and Family Services directly for information. Always visit a potential provider in person and ask to see their current license, which should be posted, and discuss any inspection findings you have questions about.
Are there any unique childcare resources or networks specific to the Athens, OH community that can help parents?
Yes, Athens has several valuable local resources. First, **The Athens County Birth Circle** offers support and information for new parents, including childcare recommendations. **Rural Action's Head Start** program provides free, comprehensive early childhood education and care for income-eligible families in the county. For parents connected to Ohio University, the **OU Child Development Center** is a key resource, and the **OU Student Parent Support Program** offers guidance and referrals. Additionally, the **Athens County Public Libraries** host frequent early literacy events that can be a way to connect with other parents and learn about local preschools. For navigating subsidies and programs, the **Athens County Department of Job and Family Services** is the central point of contact.