The Best Daycare Centers in Ava, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Ava. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Ava
Kiddie Academy of Zanesville
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Zanesville provides comprehensive educational childcare with a nationally recognized Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and social-emotional learning. The center features state-certified teachers with early childhood education credentials, secure entry systems, and daily communication apps for parents. Their facility includes age-appropriate learning centers, outdoor playgrounds, and nutritional meal programs. Serving the broader Muskingum County area including Ava residents, this academy maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios and emphasizes school readiness through structured learning activities and developmental milestone tracking.
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The Goddard School of Zanesville
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Zanesville offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic preparation with social development. The center employs degreed teachers in early childhood education and provides comprehensive safety protocols including secured facilities and regular safety drills. Their learning environment includes STEAM labs, literacy centers, and outdoor exploration areas. Serving families throughout Muskingum County, including Ava, the school emphasizes play-based learning, cultural awareness, and individualized development plans with regular parent-teacher conferences and progress reports.
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Bright Beginnings Learning Center
Independent
Bright Beginnings Learning Center is a locally-owned childcare facility serving the Zanesville and surrounding rural communities including Ava. They offer a balanced curriculum incorporating Creative Curriculum® with Ohio Early Learning Standards, focusing on literacy development, mathematical thinking, and social skills. The center features experienced teaching staff with ongoing professional development, secure monitored entry systems, and nutritious meal programs meeting USDA guidelines. Their facility includes separate age-appropriate classrooms, large outdoor play areas, and enrichment programs in music and movement. Known for their family-oriented approach and flexible scheduling options for rural families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Ava, OH
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Ava, Ohio, and how can I verify a daycare is properly licensed?
In Ava, Ohio, all childcare providers caring for more than one child from a separate family must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). This includes family childcare homes and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training), and facility safety. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool on the ODJFS website. You can search by provider name, location, or county (Noble County). It's crucial to choose a licensed provider, as this offers legal protections and ensures a baseline of quality and safety for your child.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Ava, Ohio, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Ava and the surrounding Noble County area, childcare costs are generally lower than in major Ohio cities but can vary significantly. For full-time care, you can expect to pay approximately **$120 to $180 per week** for a toddler at a licensed family childcare home, and slightly more ($140-$220/week) at a center-based program. Infant care typically costs 10-20% more. Financial assistance is available for eligible families through the **Ohio Department of Job and Family Services' Publicly Funded Child Care program**. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work or education requirements. You can apply through the Noble County Department of Job and Family Services. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Ava, and what's the best way to secure a spot for my child?
Due to the smaller number of providers in a rural community like Ava, quality daycare spots, especially for infants, can be limited and may have waitlists. It's common for popular family childcare homes or the nearest center-based options to have waitlists of several months. The best strategy is to **start your search early, ideally during pregnancy or 6-9 months before you need care**. Contact providers directly to inquire about availability and get on their waitlist, even if it's tentative. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable deposit to hold a spot. Also, consider expanding your search radius to nearby towns like Caldwell or Sarahsville, as many families in Ava commute for childcare.
What types of childcare settings are most common in Ava, and what are the pros and cons of each for a rural community?
In Ava and rural Noble County, the most common options are **licensed family childcare homes** and **small, faith-based or independent preschool programs** that may offer part-day options. Larger daycare centers are less common and may require a commute. * **Family Childcare Homes:** Pros include a home-like setting, mixed-age groups (like a family), often more flexible hours, and a single consistent caregiver. Cons can be less structured curriculum and vulnerability to closure if the provider is sick or on vacation. * **Center-Based/Preschool Programs:** Pros often include a more structured educational curriculum, multiple staff members, and regulated facilities. The main con is limited availability and potentially longer travel distances from Ava. Many local providers understand the agricultural and shift-work schedules common in the area and may offer more flexible arrangements than urban centers.
What should I look for during an in-person visit to a potential daycare in the Ava area?
When visiting a daycare in Ava, go beyond the basics. First, ensure the license is posted. Observe the **cleanliness and safety** of the environment, both indoors and in any outdoor play areas. Notice how staff interact with children—are they engaged and responsive? Ask about their experience, training (including First Aid/CPR), and the provider's backup plan for emergencies or personal illness. In a rural area, inquire about their **emergency preparedness plan** for severe weather or power outages. Ask for a sample daily schedule and menu. Finally, trust your instincts about the atmosphere and ask for references from other local parents. A good provider will welcome your questions and be transparent.