The Best Daycare Centers in Edison, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Edison. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Edison
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Marion serves the Edison area with a premier early childhood education program featuring F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience). Their play-based curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, arts, and social development. Features state-certified teachers with early childhood education degrees, secure keypad entry systems, live streaming for parents, and modern classroom technology. Maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and offers enrichment programs including yoga, music, and Spanish. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, dedicated infant rooms, and comprehensive safety protocols.
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Small Wonders Child Care & Learning Center
Independent
Small Wonders provides comprehensive childcare services to the Edison/Marion County area with a focus on developmental milestones and school readiness. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum® with hands-on learning centers, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. Features qualified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development, USDA-approved meal program, secure facility with surveillance, and large outdoor play areas. Specializes in individualized learning plans and maintains strong parent communication through daily reports and parent portals.
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Little Buckeyes Learning Center
Independent
Little Buckeyes Learning Center serves the greater Marion County area including Edison with a balanced approach to early childhood education. Their program emphasizes Ohio Early Learning Standards with structured academic preparation and developmental play. Features experienced teaching staff with background checks and ongoing training, modern security systems, nutritious meal service, and spacious indoor/outdoor facilities. Offers flexible scheduling options and maintains strong community connections with local schools. Known for their warm, family-oriented environment and consistent quality care.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Edison, OH
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Edison, Ohio?
In Edison and the surrounding rural areas of Morrow County, full-time daycare costs are generally more affordable than in major Ohio cities but can vary based on the type of provider. A licensed in-home daycare typically ranges from $120 to $160 per week. Larger childcare centers, which may require commuting to nearby towns like Mount Gilead or Cardington, often charge between $150 and $200 per week for full-time infant care. It's important to note that availability of infant slots is limited locally, which can influence pricing. Many families in Edison also explore home-based providers for a more personalized and cost-effective option. Financial assistance is available through programs like the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services' publicly funded childcare, which eligible families in Morrow County can apply for.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Edison, Ohio?
All licensed childcare providers in Ohio, including those in Edison and Morrow County, are regulated by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). You can verify a provider's license and review their compliance history online through the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool. This public database shows the provider's license type (Type A Family, Type B Family, or Child Care Center), their current status, and the results of their last several inspections, including any cited violations. For local context, you can also contact the **Morrow County Department of Job and Family Services** for additional guidance or to inquire about any known, unlicensed operations. Always ensure the provider displays their license certificate prominently.
Are there any licensed childcare centers directly in Edison, or will I need to look in neighboring towns?
Edison is a small village, and licensed childcare centers within the village limits are extremely rare. Most parents in Edison expand their search to neighboring communities in Morrow County. Your primary options will be licensed **Type B Family Child Care Homes** (which are in-home providers caring for up to 6 children) within Edison itself. For center-based care, you will likely need to commute to nearby towns such as **Mount Gilead** (the county seat, about 15 minutes away), **Cardington**, or **Marion**. Many providers in these areas are accustomed to serving families from surrounding rural communities. Starting your search early and inquiring about transportation policies is crucial.
What are the waitlist times like for infant care in the Edison area, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of providers and strict infant-to-staff ratios mandated by Ohio law, securing infant care (for children under 18 months) in the Edison area often involves significant waitlists. For in-home providers in Edison, waitlists can be 3 to 6 months. For centers in Mount Gilead or Cardington, waitlists can extend from 6 to 12 months, especially for coveted infant slots. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents in Morrow County begin contacting providers **during their second trimester** to get on multiple waitlists. Be prepared to place a deposit to hold your spot. Staying in regular contact with providers on your list can improve your chances.
What local resources or organizations in Morrow County can help me find and evaluate childcare options near Edison?
The key local resource for childcare referrals and support is the **Morrow County Department of Job and Family Services**. They can provide lists of licensed providers in the county and information on financial assistance programs. Additionally, **Help Me Grow Morrow County**, part of a statewide early intervention system, can be a resource for developmental concerns and may have connections to quality childcare providers. For networking and personal recommendations, which are invaluable in a rural community, consider connecting with other parents through the **Morrow County Facebook community pages** or local groups like the Morrow County Moms network. The **North Central Ohio Educational Service Center** may also have information on preschool and early learning programs that partner with local providers.
Childcare Insights for Edison
Finding reliable, flexible childcare can feel like searching for a hidden treasure, especially when your regular routine hits a snag. For parents in Edison, Ohio, the need for a trustworthy "drop in daycare near me" might arise from a last-minute work meeting, a crucial appointment, or simply the need for a few hours to recharge. The good news is that understanding your local options can turn a moment of stress into a welcome solution.
In a close-knit community like Edison, the approach to childcare often reflects its warm, neighborly spirit. While dedicated drop-in centers common in larger cities might be less frequent here, flexibility is often found within existing home-based daycares or local family childcare providers. Many licensed in-home providers in the Edison area understand the unpredictable nature of parenting and may offer occasional or part-time slots based on their current enrollment and availability. Your first step is to think locally and personally. Start by asking for recommendations within your network—other parents at the park, neighbors, or local community groups on social media can provide invaluable, trusted leads. A provider who comes personally recommended in a small town often brings a level of comfort and accountability that is priceless.
When you begin your search, it’s essential to make those calls and ask the right questions. Inquire specifically if they accept drop-in or occasional care, and be clear about the days and hours you might need. Discuss their policies on meals, naps, and what your child should bring. Importantly, verify that the provider is licensed by the State of Ohio and inquire about their safety protocols, including first-aid training and emergency procedures. Even for short-term care, you’ll want to schedule a visit. This allows you to see the environment, observe how the caregiver interacts with children, and ensure it feels like a safe, engaging space for your little one. Pay attention to cleanliness, the types of toys and activities available, and the overall atmosphere. In Edison, where word travels fast, a provider’s reputation for creating a nurturing environment is a key indicator of quality.
Planning ahead, even for flexible care, is your best strategy. While true "drop-in" might mean calling the same morning, establishing a relationship with a provider beforehand is wise. Many will require completed registration forms, copies of immunization records, and a trial visit before the first unsupervised stay. This preparation ensures everything is in order when you truly need it at a moment's notice. Consider creating a shortlist of two or three potential providers in the Edison area, so you have a backup. Remember, this service is not just about convenience; it’s about finding a supportive extension of your own care. Finding that reliable spot where your child is happy and safe, even for a few hours, provides immense peace of mind. It allows you to handle life’s demands knowing your child is in good hands, right here in our community.