The Best Daycare Centers in Barlow, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Barlow. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Barlow
Bright Beginnings Learning Center
Independent
Bright Beginnings Learning Center serves the Barlow area with a comprehensive early childhood education program featuring a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation. The center employs state-certified early childhood educators with an average of 8 years of experience. Their curriculum includes STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. The facility features secure access control, comprehensive safety protocols, and age-appropriate outdoor play areas. Parents consistently praise the center's warm, nurturing environment and excellent communication about child development progress.
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Little Eagles Child Development Center
Independent
Little Eagles Child Development Center provides high-quality childcare services to families in the Barlow region with a focus on individualized learning plans and developmental milestones. The center features a research-based curriculum that incorporates Montessori principles and Ohio Early Learning Standards. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and participate in ongoing professional development. The facility includes modern security systems, nutritious meal programs, and spacious indoor learning environments. The center is particularly noted for its strong parent-teacher partnerships and comprehensive transition programs for school readiness.
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Kiddie Academy of Marietta
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Marietta serves the greater Barlow area with their nationally recognized Life Essentials® curriculum that balances education, play, and character development. The center features purpose-built classrooms, secure entry systems, and certified teachers trained in age-appropriate instructional methods. Their program emphasizes literacy development, math readiness, and social skills through hands-on learning experiences. The academy maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios and provides regular developmental assessments. Parents consistently rate the center highly for its structured learning environment, clean facilities, and professional staff committed to each child's individual growth and development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Barlow, OH
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Barlow, Ohio?
In Barlow and the surrounding Washington County area, full-time daycare costs can vary based on the type of provider. For a licensed in-home daycare, you might expect to pay between $120 to $160 per week. For a larger childcare center, weekly rates are typically higher, ranging from $150 to $220 per week for infants, with slightly lower rates for toddlers. These costs are generally more affordable than in larger Ohio cities like Columbus or Cleveland. It's important to ask what is included in the rate (e.g., meals, diapers, formula) and to inquire about any available financial assistance programs, such as Ohio's publicly funded childcare through the Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS), which many local providers accept.
How can I verify that a daycare in Barlow is properly licensed and check its compliance history?
All childcare programs in Ohio, including those in Barlow, must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) unless they are legally exempt (like care by a relative). You can verify a provider's license and review their inspection reports, including any citations, through the publicly available **Ohio Child Care Search** tool online. Simply search by the provider's name or zip code (45714 for Barlow). This report will show their star rating (Ohio's Step Up To Quality system), license status, capacity, and any non-compliance issues found during state inspections. You can also contact the ODJFS Southeast Regional Office, which oversees Washington County, for additional information.
Are there long waitlists for daycare spots in Barlow, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to Barlow's smaller, rural community size, the number of licensed providers is limited, which can sometimes lead to waitlists, especially for infant care. It is highly recommended to begin your search at least 3-6 months before you need care, and if you are expecting a child, to get on lists during your second trimester. Popular local centers and highly-rated in-home providers often have the longest waits. Be proactive by contacting multiple options, including providers in nearby towns like Vincent or Marietta, and ask to be placed on a waitlist. Flexibility with your start date can also improve your chances of securing a spot.
What types of childcare settings are most commonly available in Barlow, Ohio?
Barlow primarily offers two types of licensed childcare settings. The most common are **licensed Type A Family Child Care Homes**, which are operated in a provider's residence and can care for up to 6-12 children. These often provide a more home-like environment. There are also a limited number of **licensed Child Care Centers**, which may be part of a church or independent facility and operate with more staff and structured programs. Due to the rural nature of the area, formal preschools are less common, with many daycare providers incorporating preschool curricula. For school-age children, care is often provided through the Warren Local School District's before and after-school programs.
What are some local resources for parents in Barlow to help find and evaluate childcare options?
A key local resource is the **Washington County Family & Children First Council**. They can provide referrals and information about licensed providers in the county. Additionally, you can contact **Building Bridges to Kindergarten**, a Washington County initiative that helps connect families with early childhood resources. For hands-on help, consider reaching out to **HARCATUS Tri-County CAO**, a community action agency serving the region, which may have information on subsidized care and provider lists. Networking through local Facebook community groups (e.g., "Barlow, Ohio Community") is also a practical way to get personal recommendations from other parents in the area.