The Best Daycare Centers in Delaware, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Delaware. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Delaware
The Goddard School of Delaware
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Delaware offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their state-licensed teachers create individualized learning plans for each child, focusing on literacy, STEM, art, and social-emotional development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds. What sets them apart is their comprehensive curriculum that includes Spanish exposure, yoga instruction, and technology integration while maintaining low student-teacher ratios for personalized attention.
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Kiddie Academy of Delaware
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Delaware provides educational child care through their Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, and school readiness. The center features certified teachers with early childhood education degrees, secure keypad entry systems, and modern facilities with dedicated learning centers. Their program includes technology-enhanced learning, nutritious meals prepared on-site, and regular communication with parents through electronic daily reports. The academy stands out for their commitment to community involvement and character education program that teaches values like kindness, respect, and responsibility.
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Primrose School of Polaris
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Polaris, located just 15 minutes from Delaware in the Polaris area, offers the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from master's-level educated teachers. The school features state-of-the-art security systems, dedicated music and art studios, and expansive outdoor learning environments. Their curriculum includes character development, literacy programs, and hands-on science exploration. What makes them exceptional is their partnership with leading children's hospitals for health and safety protocols, and their commitment to developing the whole child through a balanced approach to early education that serves many families from the Delaware area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Delaware, OH
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Delaware, Ohio?
In Delaware, Ohio, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from $220 to $320 per week, while toddler care averages between $200 and $280 per week. These rates can vary based on the type of provider—center-based programs tend to be on the higher end, while licensed in-home family childcare may be more affordable. It's important to note that these are base rates; additional fees for registration, supplies, or meals may apply. Compared to larger metropolitan areas in Ohio like Columbus, Delaware's costs are generally moderate. Many facilities offer sibling discounts, and financial assistance may be available through programs like Ohio's Publicly Funded Child Care, which uses a sliding scale based on family income.
How do I verify that a daycare in Delaware is properly licensed and what are Ohio's key regulations for childcare providers?
All childcare providers in Delaware must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). You can verify a provider's license status, inspection reports, and any compliance history for free through the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool online. Key Ohio regulations include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:5 for infants, 1:7 for toddlers), required background checks for all employees, annual health and safety training, and specific square footage requirements per child. Delaware County also has local health department inspections. When touring a facility, don't hesitate to ask for their current license and their most recent inspection report—reputable centers will have these readily available.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Delaware, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common for many highly-rated daycare centers and preschools in Delaware, especially for infant rooms. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a move start their search **6 to 12 months** in advance of their needed start date. Popular centers affiliated with employers like Ohio Wesleyan University or major local employers often have the longest lists. To manage this, contact multiple providers, get on several waitlists (note that some may charge a small fee), and check back periodically. Exploring licensed family childcare homes can also be a good alternative, as they may have more immediate openings and smaller group sizes.
What types of preschool or pre-kindergarten programs are available for 3-5 year-olds in Delaware, Ohio?
Delaware offers a variety of preschool options. The **Delaware City School District** offers state-funded preschool programs for eligible 3- and 4-year-olds, often with income-based or special needs qualifications. Numerous private centers offer preschool curricula, and many are rated through Ohio's **Step Up To Quality (SUTQ)** star rating system—look for 3- to 5-star rated programs for high-quality early education. There are also faith-based preschools, Montessori schools, and nature-based programs. For a seamless transition, many parents seek programs that align with the Delaware City School District's kindergarten readiness goals. The Delaware County Board of Developmental Disabilities also provides resources and programs for children with special needs.
What resources are available in Delaware to help me find and compare local childcare options?
The primary resource is **Action for Children**, the designated Child Care Resource and Referral (CCRR) agency for Central Ohio, which serves Delaware County. Their website and helpline offer free, personalized referrals based on your zip code, child's age, schedule, and budget. You can also use the statewide **Ohio Child Care Search** portal to filter by location, program type, and SUTQ star rating. Locally, the **Delaware County Department of Job and Family Services** can provide information on subsidy eligibility. For firsthand insights, consider joining community Facebook groups like "Delaware, Ohio Moms" or "Delaware County Parents" to ask for recommendations and experiences from other local families.