The Best Daycare Centers in East Springfield, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in East Springfield. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in East Springfield
The Goddard School of Springfield
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School 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, social-emotional development, and creative arts. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds. They maintain low student-to-teacher ratios and provide nutritious meals. The curriculum is developed by early childhood education experts and emphasizes school readiness through hands-on learning experiences and character development.
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Kiddie Academy of Springfield
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy provides comprehensive educational childcare with their Life Essentials® curriculum that integrates character education, technology, and hands-on learning. The academy features certified teachers with early childhood education degrees, secure keypad entry systems, and modern classrooms equipped with interactive technology. Their program emphasizes STEM learning, literacy development, and social skills through project-based activities. The facility includes age-specific playgrounds, on-site kitchen providing nutritious meals, and comprehensive safety protocols including regular security drills and health screenings.
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Springfield Christian Preschool
Springfield Christian Church
Springfield Christian Preschool offers a faith-based early childhood education program that combines academic excellence with Christian values. Their curriculum focuses on kindergarten readiness through structured learning centers, phonics instruction, math concepts, and social development. The program features experienced teachers with early childhood credentials, small class sizes, and a nurturing environment. The facility includes dedicated preschool classrooms, indoor play areas, and secure outdoor playgrounds. They emphasize character development, community involvement, and parent partnership through regular communication and family events.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in East Springfield, OH
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in East Springfield, Ohio?
In East Springfield, Ohio, full-time daycare costs can vary significantly based on the type of provider. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $180 to $250 per week for an infant or toddler. In-home licensed family childcare homes are often slightly more affordable, typically ranging from $140 to $200 per week. These costs are generally lower than the state average for major metropolitan areas in Ohio. It's important to note that many facilities include meals and basic supplies in their weekly rate, but you should always confirm what is covered. Additionally, Ohio offers assistance through the Publicly Funded Child Care program for eligible families, which can substantially reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in East Springfield?
All childcare providers in East Springfield must be licensed or certified by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). The most reliable way to verify a provider's status and history is to use the online **Ohio Child Care Search Tool** on the ODJFS website. This public database allows you to search by provider name, location, or type. For each listed provider, you can view their current license status, capacity, age ranges served, and crucially, their inspection reports. These reports detail any compliance issues, violations, and the steps taken to correct them. You can also contact the **Clark County Department of Job and Family Services** for local assistance and recommendations.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in East Springfield, and how far in advance should I apply?
Waitlists are common for infant care slots at highly-rated daycare centers in East Springfield, especially for those affiliated with employers, hospitals, or educational institutions. It is advisable to begin your search and get on waitlists **6 to 12 months before your needed start date**. For toddler and preschool-aged children, waitlists may be shorter, typically 3 to 6 months. When touring facilities, always ask about their specific waitlist process: whether there's a fee to join, how often they update parents on position, and if they offer sibling priority. Exploring licensed family childcare homes can be a good alternative, as they often have more immediate openings and smaller group sizes.
What local resources or programs in East Springfield can help me find and choose quality childcare?
East Springfield parents have several valuable local resources. Your first stop should be **4C for Children**, the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCRR) agency serving Clark County. They offer free, personalized referrals to licensed providers that match your needs, location, and budget. They also provide guidance on what to look for during a visit. Additionally, the **Clark County Public Library** often hosts parenting workshops and can be a source of community information. For evaluating quality, look for providers participating in Ohio's **Step Up To Quality (SUTQ)** rating system—a voluntary program that rates providers from 1 to 5 stars based on higher standards of learning, development, and professional training.
What are the options for part-time, drop-in, or non-traditional hour childcare in East Springfield?
Finding part-time or flexible childcare in East Springfield can be challenging but is possible. Many traditional centers require full-time enrollment, but some offer part-time schedules (e.g., 2-3 days a week) at a proportional cost. Your best bet for true flexibility is often licensed family childcare homes, as providers may be more willing to accommodate irregular hours. For true drop-in or emergency care, options are limited locally; you may need to look at centers in nearby Springfield proper. For parents working nights, weekends, or rotating shifts, it's crucial to inquire directly with providers about their hours of operation—very few in East Springfield offer 24/7 care. Networking with other local parents through community groups or social media can sometimes lead to finding a trusted in-home provider who offers the flexibility you need.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near East Springfield: