The Best Daycare Centers in Eastlake, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Eastlake. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Eastlake
Kiddie Academy of Eastlake
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Eastlake offers a comprehensive educational curriculum called Life Essentials® that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and social-emotional learning. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and surveillance cameras. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the facility maintains low teacher-to-child ratios. The program includes nutritious meals prepared on-site, outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups, and regular parent communication through a dedicated app. Their curriculum aligns with Ohio's early learning standards and includes daily Spanish exposure and technology integration for pre-K students.
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The Goddard School of Willoughby
Goddard Systems, Inc.
Located just minutes from Eastlake, The Goddard School of Willoughby provides a play-based learning approach through their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program. The facility features bright, modern classrooms, multiple age-appropriate playgrounds, and secure entry systems. All teachers are trained in CPR and First Aid, with many holding advanced degrees in early childhood education. The curriculum emphasizes literacy development, mathematics, science exploration, and social skills. They offer enrichment programs including yoga, music, and foreign language exposure. The center maintains detailed portfolios tracking each child's developmental progress and provides regular parent-teacher conferences.
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Primrose School of Mentor
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Mentor serves the greater Lake County area including Eastlake families with their Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance. The center features secure facilities with biometric entry systems, commercial-grade air purification, and dedicated age-based learning environments. Their curriculum includes literacy-rich classrooms, hands-on science labs, music and art studios, and outdoor learning spaces. All lead teachers have bachelor's degrees and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes character development and community service projects, while providing healthy chef-prepared meals and snacks. They maintain excellent staff retention rates and strong parent satisfaction through their exclusive Parent Communication App.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Eastlake, OH
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Eastlake, Ohio?
In Eastlake, Ohio, full-time daycare costs can vary significantly based on the type of facility. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay between $220 and $320 per week for an infant, and slightly less for a toddler. In-home licensed family childcare homes are often more affordable, typically ranging from $160 to $240 per week. These rates are generally in line with the Lake County average. It's important to note that many centers have a single weekly rate regardless of attendance, so you pay for the spot even if your child is sick or on vacation. We recommend contacting providers directly for their most current rates and inquiring about any potential registration or supply fees.
How can I verify if a daycare in Eastlake is properly licensed and check its compliance history?
All childcare programs in Ohio, including those in Eastlake, must be licensed 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 **Ohio Child Care Search** tool online. This public database allows you to search by provider name, location, or type. For each listing, you can view the license status, capacity, age ranges served, and crucially, any recent inspection reports and compliance violations. You can also contact the ODJFS Office for Lake County directly for assistance. Always visit a potential daycare and ask to see their current license, which should be posted.
Are there any daycare centers in Eastlake that offer flexible or non-traditional hours for parents working shifts?
Finding childcare for non-standard hours can be challenging in Eastlake, but options exist. While most traditional centers operate on a Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM schedule, some in-home family childcare providers may offer more flexibility, including early mornings, evenings, or occasional weekend care. A few centers in the broader Lake County area may offer extended hours. Your best strategy is to be upfront about your schedule needs when calling providers. Additionally, you can search the Ohio Child Care database and filter for providers who list "Non-Traditional Hours" as a service. Networking with other local parents on community social media pages can also lead to recommendations for flexible caregivers.
What is the current waitlist situation for infant daycare spots in Eastlake, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to high demand and strict infant-to-staff ratios (1:4 in Ohio), waitlists for infant care in Eastlake are common and can be lengthy. It is not unusual for popular centers to have a waitlist of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. We strongly recommend that expectant parents begin their search and get on waitlists **during the first or second trimester of pregnancy**. When contacting providers, ask specific questions: their current estimated wait time, if there's a fee to be on the list, how often they update families, and if they offer a guaranteed enrollment date. Also consider expanding your search to include high-quality licensed family childcare homes in neighboring communities like Willoughby or Mentor, which may have shorter wait times.
What local resources or programs in Eastlake and Lake County can help me pay for childcare?
Several state and county programs can provide financial assistance to eligible families in Eastlake. The primary resource is **Ohio's Publicly Funded Child Care (PFCC)** program, administered by the Lake County Department of Job and Family Services (JFS). Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work/education requirements. You can apply online via the Ohio Benefits portal or contact the Lake County JFS office. Additionally, some local employers may offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). For military families, the Child Care Fee Assistance program may apply. We also recommend checking with individual daycare centers, as some may offer sibling discounts or scholarships based on need.