The Best Daycare Centers in Bath, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Bath. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Bath
Primrose School of Bath
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Bath offers a balanced learning approach through their exclusive Balanced Learning curriculum, combining teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated learning spaces. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes character development and life skills through their Harmony & Heart program, while maintaining low student-teacher ratios. They provide nutritious meals and snacks through their exclusive Wholesome Tummies food program, and offer extended hours to accommodate working families.
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The Goddard School of Fairlawn
Goddard Systems, Inc.
Located just minutes from Bath in Fairlawn, The Goddard School provides F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. The school features secure keypad entry, live-streaming cameras in classrooms, and comprehensive safety protocols. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields. The curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and social-emotional development. The facility includes multiple age-appropriate playgrounds, indoor gym space, and dedicated art and learning centers. Parent communication is maintained through daily reports and regular conferences.
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Chesterfield Academy
Chesterfield Academy
Chesterfield Academy serves families throughout the greater Cleveland area including Bath residents. The center offers a comprehensive curriculum that balances academic preparation with social development. Safety features include secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. The facility includes spacious classrooms, multiple playgrounds with safety surfaces, and dedicated learning centers for different age groups. Their educational approach incorporates Ohio Early Learning Standards with hands-on learning experiences. The center provides organic meals and snacks, and maintains small class sizes with low teacher-to-child ratios. Extended hours and flexible scheduling accommodate working parents' needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Bath, OH
What are the typical costs for infant and toddler daycare in Bath, Ohio, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Bath, Ohio, daycare costs are generally in line with the Summit County average. For infant care (under 18 months), you can expect to pay between $1,200 to $1,600 per month for a full-time, licensed center. Toddler care (18 months to 3 years) typically ranges from $1,000 to $1,400 per month. In-home daycare providers may offer slightly lower rates. For financial assistance, Ohio's publicly funded childcare program is administered through the Summit County Department of Job and Family Services (DJFS). Eligibility is based on income, work, or school requirements. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's advisable to contact the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services or a local Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for the most current eligibility guidelines and application process.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Bath, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists for highly-regarded daycare centers in Bath and the surrounding Revere School District area can be significant, especially for infant rooms. It's not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. To secure a spot, start your search and make inquiries during your pregnancy or as early as possible. When you tour a facility, ask specifically about their waitlist process: if there's a fee to join, how often they update parents, and if they offer "sibling priority." Consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in Bath Township, which may have shorter wait times. Being flexible with your desired start date can also improve your chances.
What are the key differences between a licensed childcare center and a licensed in-home family childcare provider in Ohio, and how do I verify their licensing?
In Ohio, and thus in Bath, both types are regulated by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS), but they operate under different rules. **Licensed Childcare Centers** are facilities in commercial buildings with multiple staff, structured curricula, and specific staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants). **Licensed Family Childcare Providers** operate out of their own homes, caring for a maximum of 6 children (with no more than 3 under age 2), often offering a more home-like environment. To verify the license and compliance history of any provider, use the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool online. This public database shows the provider's license status, capacity, any serious rule violations (called "Step Up To Quality" ratings), and inspection reports. Always cross-reference this information during your search.
Are there daycare options in Bath that offer part-time or flexible schedules, as opposed to standard Monday-Friday full-time care?
Yes, but full-time schedules are the most common offering. Finding part-time care (e.g., 2-3 days a week) in Bath can be more challenging and may come at a premium hourly or daily rate. Some centers offer set part-time schedules, like Tuesday/Thursday or Monday/Wednesday/Friday programs, particularly for preschool-age children. For more flexibility, your best options are often licensed family childcare homes or nanny shares with other families in the Bath/Richfield area. Additionally, some centers may offer "drop-in" care on a space-available basis, but this is rare and not reliable for consistent scheduling. Be sure to inquire directly about part-time policies and costs during your tours.
What is "Step Up To Quality" (SUTQ) and why is it important when choosing a daycare in Bath, Ohio?
"Step Up To Quality" (SUTQ) is Ohio's voluntary quality rating and improvement system for licensed childcare programs. A SUTQ rating (from 1 to 5 stars) is a crucial indicator of a program's commitment to exceeding minimum licensing standards. A higher star rating generally reflects better staff qualifications, lower child-to-staff ratios, a richer learning environment, and stronger family engagement practices. In Bath, many parents prioritize centers with 3-star ratings or higher. Programs rated 3, 4, or 5 stars are also eligible to provide publicly funded childcare. You can view a provider's SUTQ rating on the Ohio Child Care Search website. Choosing a highly-rated program can provide greater confidence in the care and early education your child will receive.