The Best Daycare Centers in Crestline, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Crestline. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Crestline
Little Learners Academy
Independent
Little Learners Academy offers a comprehensive educational program focusing on early childhood development through play-based learning and structured curriculum. The center features state-certified teachers with early childhood education degrees and maintains low student-to-teacher ratios. Their facility includes secure indoor classrooms, age-appropriate learning centers, and safe outdoor play areas. The curriculum emphasizes literacy development, social skills, and kindergarten readiness. Parents appreciate the daily communication through a dedicated app, nutritious meal program, and the center's focus on creating a nurturing, inclusive environment. Safety features include secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills.
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Kiddie Academy of Galion
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Galion provides educational childcare with a nationally recognized Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, and STEM activities. The center features modern security systems including keypad entry, surveillance cameras, and strict pickup authorization protocols. Certified teachers implement age-appropriate learning activities in well-equipped classrooms with interactive technology. The facility includes dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, outdoor playgrounds with safety surfaces, and a commercial kitchen providing healthy meals. Parents consistently praise the qualified staff, comprehensive communication system, and the center's commitment to preparing children for academic success through structured learning programs and developmental assessments.
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Discovery Center Child Care & Preschool
Independent
Discovery Center Child Care & Preschool offers a research-based curriculum that blends Montessori principles with traditional early childhood education. The center employs experienced educators with degrees in early childhood development and provides ongoing professional training. Their comprehensive program includes language development, mathematics readiness, science exploration, and creative arts. The facility features secure, age-segmented classrooms, indoor gross motor play areas, and nature-based outdoor learning environments. Safety protocols include biometric check-in systems, comprehensive staff background checks, and health screening procedures. Parents value the center's transparent communication, individualized learning plans, and strong emphasis on social-emotional development alongside academic preparation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Crestline, OH
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available for families in Crestline, Ohio?
In Crestline, Ohio, parents have several licensed childcare options. 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 children (or up to 12 with an assistant). There are also licensed Child Care Centers, which are larger facilities. Due to Crestline's size, there are a limited number of centers, so many families also utilize in-home providers. All licensed providers in Ohio are regulated by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) and must meet health, safety, and staff training requirements. For school-age children, the Crestline Exempted Village School District may offer before and after-school programs.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Crestline, and are there financial assistance programs?
In the Crestline area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $150 to $225 per week, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging $130 to $200 per week. Costs can vary based on the type of provider (center vs. in-home) and the specific services offered. For financial assistance, eligible families can apply for the publicly funded Child Care program through the Crawford County Department of Job and Family Services. This program helps low-income working families, those in education/training, or families receiving protective services. It's important to apply early, as funding can be limited, and the program requires using an ODJFS-licensed provider.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Crestline, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists for the more established daycare centers and popular in-home providers in Crestline can vary from a few months to over a year, especially for infant care slots, which are in highest demand due to lower staff-to-child ratios. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible, ideally during pregnancy. When contacting providers, ask specific questions about their list: Is there a fee to join? How often do they update families? Do they offer tours while you wait? Also, consider expanding your search to nearby towns like Galion or Bucyrus for more options, though this adds commute time.
What are the key Ohio state licensing requirements I should verify when touring a daycare in Crestline?
When evaluating a daycare in Crestline, you should verify several key Ohio licensing standards. First, ask to see their current ODJFS license, which should be posted. Check staff-to-child ratios: for infants (under 18 months), it's 1:5; for toddlers (18-36 months), it's 1:7. All staff must have background checks and complete training in First Aid, CPR, and Child Abuse Prevention. The facility should be safe and clean, with clear emergency plans. You can also check a provider's compliance history online through the Ohio Child Care Search and Provider Portal, which shows inspection reports and any cited violations.
Are there any local resources or networks in Crestline to help parents find and evaluate childcare providers?
Yes, a primary local resource is **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) of North Central Ohio**, which serves Crawford County (including Crestline). They maintain a database of licensed providers, offer referrals based on your specific needs, and can provide guidance on quality indicators and financial assistance. You can contact them via their website or phone. Additionally, local Facebook groups like "Crestline Community" or "Crestline, Ohio - What's Going On?" are often used by parents to ask for personal recommendations and experiences with local daycare providers, which can provide valuable firsthand insights.