The Best Daycare Centers in Dola, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Dola. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Dola
Little Buckeye Learning Center
Independent
Little Buckeye Learning Center is a highly-regarded childcare facility located just 10 minutes from Dola in Kenton. They offer a comprehensive educational program focusing on early childhood development through play-based learning and structured curriculum. The center features state-licensed teachers with early childhood education credentials, low student-to-teacher ratios, and secure facility access with surveillance systems. Their curriculum includes literacy development, STEM activities, creative arts, and social-emotional learning. The center provides nutritious meals and snacks, spacious indoor and outdoor play areas, and regular parent communication through digital platforms. Their summer camp program includes field trips and enrichment activities for school-age children.
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Kiddie Academy of Findlay
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Findlay is a nationally recognized educational childcare center located approximately 20 minutes from Dola. They implement the Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts. The facility features secure entry systems, certified teachers with early childhood degrees, and modern learning environments with age-appropriate learning centers. Their program includes technology integration, foreign language exposure, and physical fitness activities. The center maintains rigorous health and safety protocols, including comprehensive cleaning procedures and staff training in pediatric first aid/CPR. Parent engagement is supported through real-time updates and regular progress reports.
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The Goddard School of Lima
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Lima is a premium early childhood education center located approximately 25 minutes from Dola. They offer the F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. The school features highly qualified teachers with bachelor's degrees in education, purpose-built classrooms with modern educational technology, and secure campus with controlled access. Their curriculum includes literacy development, mathematics, science exploration, and social studies, complemented by enrichment programs in music, art, and physical education. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, dedicated art and music rooms, and comprehensive safety protocols including regular emergency drills and health screenings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Dola, OH
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Dola, Ohio, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Dola, Ohio, all childcare providers caring for more than one child from a separate family must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). This includes family childcare homes and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet health, safety, and developmental standards for staff-to-child ratios, background checks, safe environments, and emergency plans. To verify a facility's license and view any past inspection reports or violations, you can use the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool on the ODJFS website. This is a crucial first step for any parent in Hardin County to ensure their chosen provider operates legally and safely.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Dola, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Dola and the surrounding Hardin County area, average costs for full-time, center-based infant care typically range from **$700 to $900 per month**. For toddlers, costs may be slightly lower, around **$650 to $850 per month**. In-home family childcare is often more affordable. These rates are generally lower than in major Ohio cities but are a significant household expense. For financial assistance, Ohio offers the **Publicly Funded Child Care (PFCC) program**, which provides subsidies based on family income, work, or school requirements. Eligibility is determined through the Hardin County Department of Job and Family Services. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Dola, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the limited number of dedicated childcare centers in a small community like Dola, waitlists can be common, especially for infant spots. It's not unusual for popular local centers or highly-regarded in-home providers to have waitlists of **3 to 6 months**, or sometimes longer. We strongly recommend parents begin their search **as early as possible during pregnancy**, ideally by the second trimester. Contacting multiple providers to get on their lists is a smart strategy. Be sure to ask about their specific waitlist process, any fees to hold a spot, and how often you should check in for updates.
What are my options for part-time or flexible childcare in Dola, especially for parents with non-traditional work hours?
Finding part-time or flexible-hour care in a small town like Dola can be challenging, as most centers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM schedule. Your best options are often **licensed family childcare homes**, which may offer more flexibility with part-time schedules or occasional care. Some providers might accommodate early mornings or evenings for shift workers. For true flexibility, you may need to look at neighboring communities like Kenton or Ada, or consider forming a **nanny share** with another local family. Networking through local Facebook groups for Hardin County parents can be invaluable for finding these less-advertised, flexible arrangements.
Are there any preschool programs integrated into daycare settings in Dola to prepare my child for kindergarten?
Yes, several daycare providers in Dola and the immediate area offer structured preschool programs for children ages 3-5. These are often integrated into the daily schedule of a licensed childcare center or family home. Look for programs that follow the **Ohio Early Learning and Development Standards**. A key local resource is **Dola's Head Start program**, which is a federally funded preschool that provides comprehensive early childhood education, health, and nutrition services to income-eligible families. It's important to ask providers about their curriculum, teacher qualifications, and how they specifically prepare children for the Kenton City School District or other local kindergarten programs.