The Best Daycare Centers in Chagrin Falls, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Chagrin Falls. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Chagrin Falls
Primrose School of Solon
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Solon follows the exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum that blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance from teachers. The school features dedicated infant rooms with low teacher-to-child ratios, STEM learning labs, and secure entry systems. Highly qualified early childhood educators implement developmentally appropriate practices with ongoing assessments. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, music and movement spaces, and focuses on character development and literacy. Parents consistently praise the structured curriculum, communication through the Primrose Schools app, and the nurturing environment that prepares children for kindergarten.
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The Goddard School of Solon
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Solon offers a play-based F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. The center features state-licensed teachers with degrees in early childhood education, secure keypad entry, and live streaming capabilities for parent viewing. Curriculum includes STEAM learning, foreign language exposure, and yoga/mindfulness. The facility includes multiple age-specific classrooms, outdoor play areas with safety surfaces, and enrichment programs. Parents highlight the professional staff, clean and safe environment, and comprehensive learning approach that effectively prepares children for elementary school.
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The Learning Experience - Bainbridge
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Bainbridge features the proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates technology, philanthropy, and fitness. The center employs early childhood professionals with ongoing training in child development and safety protocols. Facilities include interactive whiteboards, indoor gymnasium, secure entry systems, and age-appropriate learning centers. The program emphasizes phonics, mathematics, and social skills through hands-on activities. Parents consistently note the structured yet engaging environment, excellent communication through daily reports, and the center's focus on both academic and character development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Chagrin Falls, OH
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Chagrin Falls, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Chagrin Falls and the surrounding eastern suburbs of Cleveland, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,600 per month, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging $1,000 to $1,400 per month. These costs reflect the area's higher cost of living and the quality of programs offered. For financial assistance, Ohio's Publicly Funded Child Care (PFCC) program, administered through the Cuyahoga County Department of Job and Family Services, provides subsidies based on income and need. Additionally, some local centers may offer sibling discounts or scholarships. It's also worth checking with your employer, as some larger companies in the Cleveland area offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) or partnerships with specific providers.
How long are typical waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Chagrin Falls, and when should I start looking?
Due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, waitlists at well-regarded licensed centers in Chagrin Falls can be significant. It's not uncommon for families to be on a waitlist for 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer for coveted spots. For this reason, it is highly recommended that expecting parents begin touring facilities and getting on waitlists during the first or second trimester of pregnancy. For toddler or preschool openings, starting your search 9-12 months in advance is still advisable. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $50-$100) and to check in periodically with centers to express your continued interest.
What are the key differences between Ohio-licensed daycare centers and licensed in-home family childcare homes in Chagrin Falls?
Both options are regulated by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS), but they operate under different rules. Licensed **Centers** in Chagrin Falls are often larger facilities with multiple classrooms, structured curricula, and multiple staff. They must meet strict staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants). Licensed **Type A Family Child Care Homes** can care for up to 12 children (with no more than 6 being infants/toddlers) in the provider's residence, often offering a more home-like, mixed-age setting. Type B Homes can care for up to 6 children total. In-home care can sometimes offer more flexibility with hours and may be slightly less expensive, while centers often provide more structured educational programming and backup staff. Your choice will depend on your child's temperament and your family's schedule and philosophy.
Are there any unique outdoor or nature-based childcare programs available in the Chagrin Falls area?
Yes, the natural beauty of the Chagrin Valley lends itself to nature-focused programming. Several local centers and preschools incorporate the "Nature Explore" philosophy or have certified outdoor classrooms. Furthermore, you may find programs that utilize the nearby Metroparks, such as the South Chagrin Reservation or The West Woods, for regular outdoor exploration. While a fully outdoor "forest school" model is less common, many providers in the area prioritize daily outdoor play in all weather conditions, taking advantage of their wooded properties or adjacent green spaces. It's a key question to ask during tours if this is a priority for your family.
What should I look for during a daycare tour specific to Ohio's licensing and safety standards?
During a tour, first verify the facility's current Ohio license is posted, along with its latest inspection report (you can also look it up online via the ODJFS Provider Search). Observe key safety elements: secure entrances with sign-in procedures, covered electrical outlets, safe sleep practices for infants (cribs with firm mattresses, no loose bedding), and age-appropriate playground equipment with proper surfacing. Ask about staff qualifications—lead teachers in Ohio often have at least a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or higher. Inquire about their emergency plans for events like tornadoes (common in Ohio) and their sick child policy. A quality center in Chagrin Falls will be transparent and eager to discuss these standards.