The Best Daycare Centers in Cleveland, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Cleveland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Cleveland
Primrose School of Strongsville
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Strongsville offers a balanced learning approach through their exclusive Balanced Learning® curriculum, combining teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. The facility features dedicated infant rooms with low teacher-to-child ratios, age-appropriate learning environments, and secure entry systems. Their degreed teachers implement research-based curricula focusing on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The school maintains NAEYC accreditation and provides nutritious meals prepared on-site. Outdoor playgrounds are designed for specific age groups with safety surfacing and age-appropriate equipment.
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The Goddard School of Westlake
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Westlake implements the F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that promotes play-based learning while developing academic and social skills. The facility features bright, modern classrooms with observation windows, secure keypad entry, and comprehensive security systems. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the school maintains state-mandated ratios with additional support staff. Their STEAM-focused curriculum includes yoga, Spanish, and literacy programs. The school is licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services and follows strict health and safety protocols.
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Apple Tree & Maple Leaf Child Care Centers
Apple Tree & Maple Leaf Centers
Apple Tree & Maple Leaf Child Care Centers provide comprehensive early childhood education with a focus on school readiness and character development. Their Creative Curriculum® incorporates project-based learning and developmental milestones tracking. The Cleveland location features recently renovated facilities with separate nurseries for infants, dedicated preschool classrooms, and secure outdoor play areas. The center employs experienced teachers with ongoing professional development requirements and maintains Step Up To Quality ratings from Ohio's quality rating system. Their program includes family-style meals, parent communication portals, and extended hours to accommodate working families in the Cleveland area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Cleveland, OH
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Cleveland, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Cleveland, the cost of full-time daycare varies significantly based on the type of provider and the child's age. For an infant, you can expect to pay between $1,100 to $1,600 per month at a licensed center, while toddler care typically ranges from $900 to $1,300 per month. Home-based daycare is often more affordable, averaging $700 to $1,000 monthly. Several local and state programs can help offset these costs. Ohio's publicly funded childcare program, administered through Cuyahoga County's Department of Job and Family Services (JFS), provides subsidies for eligible families based on income and need. Additionally, organizations like Starting Point offer resources and referrals, and some centers participate in programs like the Ohio Early Childhood Education Voucher. It's crucial to apply early, as waitlists for assistance can be long.
How do I verify a daycare's licensing and inspection history in Cleveland, Ohio?
All childcare providers in Ohio must be licensed or certified by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). To verify a daycare's status and review its compliance history, parents should use the online **Ohio Child Care Search** tool. This database allows you to search by provider name, location, or type within Cuyahoga County. It displays the license status, capacity, ages served, and, most importantly, the results of recent inspections, including any cited violations and the steps taken to correct them. You can also contact Starting Point, Cleveland's designated childcare resource and referral agency, for guidance. Always visit a potential daycare in person and ask to see their current license, which should be posted.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Cleveland, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are very common, especially for infant care and at highly-rated centers in popular Cleveland neighborhoods like Ohio City, Tremont, and University Circle. For infant spots, it is strongly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists **6 to 12 months** before you need care. For toddler and preschool-age children, 3 to 6 months of lead time is advisable. Many centers have a non-refundable application or waitlist fee. When contacting providers, ask specific questions about their waitlist process: how long the current list is, how often it moves, and if they offer sibling or employer-based priority. Exploring a mix of centers and licensed home-based providers can increase your options.
What are the key differences between a childcare center and a licensed family childcare home in Cleveland?
The main differences lie in setting, scale, and regulations. **Childcare Centers** are facilities in commercial or institutional buildings, caring for larger groups of children divided by age. They often have multiple staff with specialized roles, structured curricula, and may be part of a chain or affiliated with an organization (like a church or employer). **Licensed Family Childcare Homes** operate out of the provider's residence, caring for a smaller, mixed-age group (up to 6 children, or 12 with an assistant). This setting often offers a more home-like, flexible environment and can be more affordable. Both are licensed by ODJFS, but homes have different space and safety requirements. In Cleveland, homes can be a great option for more personalized care and potentially shorter commutes within residential neighborhoods.
Beyond basic licensing, what quality indicators should Cleveland parents look for when choosing a daycare?
Look for providers that have pursued voluntary quality ratings through Ohio's **Step Up To Quality (SUTQ)** program. This state-wide system awards one to five stars based on rigorous standards in learning and development, professional development, administrative practices, and family engagement. A higher star rating is a strong indicator of quality. Also, consider accreditation from national organizations like the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). During tours, observe staff-child interactions—are they warm and engaged? Ask about staff turnover (low turnover is better), the educational philosophy, safety protocols, meal plans (many Cleveland centers participate in the federal Child and Adult Care Food Program), and opportunities for parent involvement. Local recommendations from other parents in community groups can also be invaluable.