The Best Daycare Centers in Damascus, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Damascus. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Damascus
Kiddie Academy of Alliance
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Alliance provides comprehensive educational childcare with a structured Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, and STEM activities. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials, maintaining low student-to-teacher ratios. Facilities include secure entry systems, age-appropriate learning environments, and outdoor playgrounds. The academy emphasizes social-emotional development through daily activities and parent communication portals for real-time updates. Their nutrition program serves balanced meals and snacks, while their safety protocols include regular drills and comprehensive background checks for all staff.
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The Goddard School of Alliance
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Alliance offers a play-based learning approach through their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that balances academic preparation with social development. Certified teachers implement developmentally appropriate practices in literacy, mathematics, and science. The facility features secure keypad entry, CCTV monitoring, and sanitization protocols. Classrooms are designed with learning centers for dramatic play, blocks, and creative arts. The school maintains strong parent partnerships through daily reports, parent-teacher conferences, and community events. Their extended hours and flexible scheduling accommodate working families in the Damascus area.
Daycare Services:
Salem Early Learning Center
Independent Nonprofit
Salem Early Learning Center is a licensed nonprofit facility serving families throughout Columbiana County, including Damascus residents. Their research-based curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum® and Ohio Early Learning Standards, focusing on whole-child development. The center employs degreed early childhood educators who participate in ongoing professional development. Facilities include secure entry systems, modern classrooms with natural lighting, and age-appropriate outdoor learning environments. The center emphasizes inclusive practices and offers sliding scale tuition assistance. Their comprehensive approach includes developmental screenings, portfolio assessments, and family engagement activities that build strong school-community connections.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Damascus, OH
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Damascus, Ohio, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Damascus, Ohio, all childcare centers and family childcare homes serving more than six children must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training), and facility safety. To verify a provider's license and view any past inspection reports, you can use the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool on the ODJFS website. This public database is crucial for parents to check compliance history. For very small in-home care (6 or fewer children), providers may be "license-exempt" but can choose to become certified, which involves similar standards. Always ask to see a current license during your tour.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Damascus, OH?
Childcare costs in Damascus and surrounding Columbiana County are generally more affordable than in major Ohio cities, but they vary by provider type. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay approximately **$150 to $225 per week** for full-time infant or toddler care. In-home family childcare is often slightly less, ranging from **$120 to $180 per week**. These rates are estimates, and factors like the center's curriculum, staff credentials, and meal provisions can affect the price. It's important to ask what is included (diapers, wipes, meals) and if there are registration or annual fees. Exploring options in nearby communities like Salem or Columbiana may offer more choices but potentially higher rates.
Are there any state or local programs in Damascus that help with childcare costs for low to middle-income families?
Yes, the primary program is Ohio's **Publicly Funded Child Care (PFCC)**, administered by the Columbiana County Department of Job and Family Services. This program provides financial assistance to eligible families based on income, family size, and reason for care (e.g., employment, education). Eligibility is determined on a sliding scale. You can apply online via the Ohio Benefits Self-Service Portal or contact the local county office. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's also worth checking if your employer offers a Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA), which uses pre-tax dollars for childcare expenses.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Damascus, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the smaller number of providers in a rural community like Damascus, quality daycare spots, especially for infants, can have significant waitlists, often ranging from **3 to 9 months**. It's highly recommended to begin your search and get on lists as early as possible, even during pregnancy. When contacting providers, ask specific questions: their current waitlist length, the deposit required to hold a spot (which is often non-refundable), and how often they update the list. Consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in Damascus and neighboring towns, as they may have more immediate openings. Being flexible with your start date can also improve your chances.
What are some key questions to ask when touring a daycare facility in Damascus, specifically related to safety and daily routines?
Beyond general questions, focus on local and practical concerns. For safety, ask: "What is your severe weather and tornado drill procedure?" (important for Ohio's climate), "What is your sick child policy, and how do you handle common childhood illnesses?", and "How do you secure the facility during the day?" For daily routines, ask: "What is your policy on outdoor play, and do you have a secure, fenced outdoor area?", "Can you describe a typical meal or snack, and how do you handle food allergies?", and "How do you communicate daily updates with parents (e.g., apps, paper notes)?" Also, inquire about staff longevity—low turnover is a good sign of a positive environment in a small community.