The Best Daycare Centers in Brady Lake, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Brady Lake. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Brady Lake
KinderCare Learning Center at Kent
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare in Kent is a highly-regarded childcare center serving the Brady Lake area with a comprehensive early childhood education program. They utilize a research-based curriculum focused on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development, aligned with Ohio's early learning standards. The center features dedicated classrooms for different age groups, secure entry systems, and outdoor playgrounds. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing training. Parent communication includes daily reports and regular conferences. The center stands out for its strong emphasis on school readiness and inclusive environment, with nutritious meals provided and flexible scheduling options for working families.
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The Goddard School of Streetsboro
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Streetsboro offers a premier early childhood education experience with its F.L.E.X. Learning Program that balances academic learning and play-based exploration. The curriculum emphasizes STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) activities, language development, and social skills. The facility includes age-appropriate learning centers, secure classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All teachers are degreed and certified in early childhood education, with low student-to-teacher ratios ensuring personalized attention. The school is noted for its strong safety protocols, daily parent communication via an app, and focus on developmental milestones. It serves families in Brady Lake with extended hours and enrichment classes like yoga and music.
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La Petite Academy of Streetsboro
Learning Care Group, Inc.
La Petite Academy in Streetsboro provides a nurturing and educational environment with a proprietary curriculum designed to foster cognitive, social, and physical development. The program includes activities for literacy, math, and creative arts, supported by interactive technology and hands-on learning materials. The center features secure facilities with coded entry, indoor and outdoor play spaces, and a focus on health and safety with regular cleanliness checks. Teachers are trained in early childhood education and CPR/first aid, and the center maintains strong parent partnerships through regular updates and involvement opportunities. It is recognized for its flexible scheduling, inclusive atmosphere, and commitment to preparing children for kindergarten and beyond, making it a reliable choice for Brady Lake families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Brady Lake, OH
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available for families in Brady Lake, Ohio?
In Brady Lake and the surrounding Portage County area, parents typically have three main licensed options. The most common are **licensed family childcare homes**, which are smaller, home-based settings often offering more flexible hours and a family-like environment. You'll also find **licensed childcare centers**, which are larger facilities; many of these are located in nearby Kent or Ravenna, a short commute from Brady Lake. Finally, there are **Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS)-approved in-home providers** (like nannies). Due to Brady Lake's small, residential nature, local options are primarily family homes. All providers must be licensed by the State of Ohio, which requires background checks, health and safety training, and compliance with staff-to-child ratios. You can search for all licensed options in the area using the Ohio Child Care Search tool online.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in the Brady Lake area?
Costs in Brady Lake and northeastern Ohio are generally more affordable than in major metropolitan areas, but they vary by type of care. For a licensed **family childcare home** in Brady Lake or a neighboring community, you can expect to pay an average of **$150 to $225 per week** for full-time infant care. **Childcare centers** in nearby Kent or Streetsboro tend to be higher, averaging **$200 to $300 per week** for infants. Toddler care is typically $10-$30 less per week. It's important to note that these are base rates; additional fees for registration, supplies, or meals may apply. Many families in the area utilize the **Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) Publicly Funded Child Care program** (subsidy) if they qualify, which can significantly offset costs based on income and family size.
Are daycare waitlists common in Brady Lake, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common, especially for infants and for the limited number of providers directly in Brady Lake. Due to the small supply of local spots and high demand from families in this tight-knit community and surrounding towns, it is strongly advised to begin your search **at least 6 to 9 months before you need care**. For infant spots, starting your search during pregnancy is wise. Popular family childcare homes in the village often have waiting lists filled by word-of-mouth referrals from current families. When contacting providers, always ask about their current waitlist status, estimated timeline, and if they require a deposit to hold a spot.
What are the key state of Ohio regulations I should ask about when touring a daycare in Brady Lake?
Ohio has strict childcare licensing rules. When touring any provider in Brady Lake or Portage County, be sure to ask for verification and details on: 1) **Licensing Status**: Confirm they have a current, full license (not just a temporary permit) from ODJFS. You can verify this online. 2) **Staff-to-Child Ratios**: For infants (under 18 months), the ratio is 1:5; for toddlers (18-36 months), it's 1:7. Smaller ratios often mean more individual attention. 3) **Background Checks**: Ensure all staff have passed comprehensive Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) and FBI background checks. 4) **Health & Safety Policies**: Ask about their sick policy, immunization requirements for children and staff, emergency drills, and safe sleep practices for infants (following Ohio's "ABC" rule—Alone, on their Back, in a Crib).
Besides basic care, what kind of early learning programs or amenities are typically offered by daycares serving Brady Lake families?
Most licensed providers in the area adhere to Ohio's **Early Learning and Development Standards**. Even smaller family homes often incorporate structured learning through play. You can expect programs to include daily reading, basic number and letter recognition, arts and crafts, and outdoor play. Many providers in the region, especially centers in Kent, may follow curricula like Creative Curriculum or HighScope. A unique local amenity is the use of **community resources**; some providers take children on outings to the Brady Lake Park or the Portage County District Library branches for story time. Given the area's proximity to Kent State University, some providers may also have staff or connections with early childhood education students, bringing fresh educational ideas into their programs. Always ask for a sample daily schedule to understand the balance of learning, play, meals, and rest.