The Best Daycare Centers in Croton, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Croton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Croton
The Learning Experience - Johnstown
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Johnstown offers a comprehensive early childhood education program featuring their proprietary L.E.A.P. curriculum that focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills. The center features bright, modern classrooms with age-appropriate learning centers, secure entry systems, and outdoor playgrounds. Staff members hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The facility emphasizes character development through their philanthropy curriculum and offers enrichment programs including yoga, soccer, and dance. Parents appreciate the regular communication through their mobile app with daily photos and updates.
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The Goddard School of Johnstown
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Johnstown provides a play-based learning environment with F.L.EX. (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. The school features secure keypad entry, comprehensive safety protocols, and sanitization procedures. Classrooms are equipped with learning stations for literacy, STEM, and creative arts. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and maintain low student-teacher ratios. The program includes daily Spanish exposure, sign language for infants and toddlers, and technology integration for pre-K students. The facility offers nutritious meals and snacks following USDA guidelines.
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Primrose School of Newark
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Newark operates with the Balanced Learning approach, blending teacher-directed and child-initiated activities within their proprietary curriculum. The school features secure facilities with surveillance systems, strict pick-up authorization protocols, and comprehensive health and safety standards. Classrooms are organized into learning centers for literacy, mathematics, dramatic play, and block building. The staff includes degreed early childhood educators who participate in ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes character development and community awareness through their exclusive Harmony & Heart program. Parents value the consistent communication and detailed progress reports tracking developmental milestones.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Croton, OH
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Croton, Ohio, and how can I verify a facility is in good standing?
In Ohio, all childcare providers caring for more than six children must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). This includes family childcare homes (7-12 children) and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet health, safety, and educational standards. To verify a provider in Croton, you can use the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool on the ODJFS website. This tool shows the provider's license type, status (e.g., "Licensed - Meets Standards"), any recent inspection reports, and compliance history. It's a crucial first step for parents to ensure a facility is legally operating and maintaining state-mandated safety protocols.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with the cost of childcare for families in Croton?
Yes, the primary program is Ohio's **Publicly Funded Child Care (PFCC)**, administered by ODJFS through the Licking County Department of Job and Family Services (JFS). Eligibility is based on family income, size, and work/training/education requirements. Many licensed providers in and around Croton accept this subsidy. To apply, you must contact the Licking County JFS office. Additionally, some local employers or community organizations may offer assistance or flexible spending account (FSA) options. It's recommended to apply early, as funding can be limited, and to confirm with your chosen provider that they accept the subsidy.
What is the typical cost range for full-time infant and toddler daycare in the Croton area, and are waitlists common?
In the Croton and greater Licking County area, full-time infant care typically ranges from **$180 to $240 per week**, while toddler care may be slightly lower, around **$160 to $220 per week**. These costs can vary based on the type of facility (center vs. in-home), curriculum, and included amenities (meals, etc.). Due to limited options in a smaller community like Croton and high demand for infant spots, **waitlists are very common**, especially for infants and at highly-rated centers. It's advisable to begin your search and get on waitlists 6-12 months before you need care, if possible.
What types of childcare options are typically available in a small town like Croton, Ohio?
Given Croton's rural setting, options are more limited than in a major city but generally include: 1) **Licensed Family Childcare Homes**: Often the most prevalent option, offering a home-like setting for a smaller group of children. 2) **Childcare Centers**: There may be a few centers in Croton or in nearby towns like Johnstown or Newark. 3) **Part-Day Preschool Programs**: Often offered by churches or community organizations for children ages 3-5. 4) **In-Home Nannies or Sitters**: Some families arrange private care. Many parents in Croton also look at providers in neighboring communities within a 15-20 minute drive, significantly expanding their options.
Are there specific questions I should ask daycare providers in Croton regarding their preparedness for Ohio's weather and rural location?
Absolutely. Given Ohio's variable weather and Croton's rural setting, consider asking: 1) **Transportation & Field Trips**: "What is your policy for transporting children, and how do you ensure vehicle safety for country roads?" 2) **Weather Closures/Delays**: "What is your policy for severe weather (snow, tornado warnings)? How and when will you communicate closures?" 3) **Outdoor Play & Safety**: "Describe your outdoor play area. How is it secured from wildlife or rural traffic?" 4) **Emergency Response**: "What is your protocol for emergencies, and what is your average EMS response time given our location?" 5) **Pest Control**: "How do you manage insects or pests common to rural Ohio properties?" These questions address unique local safety considerations.