The Best Daycare Centers in Empire, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Empire. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Empire
The Goddard School of Wadsworth
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Wadsworth offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic readiness, social development, and creative expression. Their state-licensed teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and maintain low student-to-teacher ratios. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, modern classrooms with hands-on learning centers. They emphasize STEAM learning, character development, and provide daily communication through their proprietary app. Serving families throughout Medina County including Empire residents.
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Kiddie Academy of Wadsworth
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Wadsworth provides comprehensive educational childcare with their Life Essentials® curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. The center features secure keypad entry, live streaming for parents, and USDA-approved meal programs. Their degreed educators implement age-appropriate lesson plans focusing on literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills. The facility includes dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, interactive smartboards in preschool classrooms, and fenced outdoor play spaces. They serve families throughout the Wadsworth area including Empire with flexible scheduling options and enrichment programs.
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Rittman Child Care Center
Independent
Rittman Child Care Center is a well-established independent facility serving Wayne County communities including Empire. They offer a structured yet nurturing environment with a play-based learning approach that incorporates Ohio Early Learning Standards. The center features low child-to-teacher ratios, experienced staff with ongoing professional development, and a secure facility with monitored access. Their program includes daily learning activities, creative arts, music enrichment, and outdoor play in their safe, fenced playground. They maintain strong parent partnerships through regular communication and family events, with a focus on preparing children for kindergarten success.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Empire, OH
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Empire, Ohio, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Empire, Ohio, all childcare centers and family childcare homes serving more than six children must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training), and program curriculum. To verify a facility's compliance, you can use the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool on the ODJFS website, which shows a provider's license status, any recent inspection reports, and any serious violations. You can also contact the local county office of ODJFS for Stark County, which oversees Empire. It's always recommended to visit a facility in person and ask to see their current license.
What is the average cost of full-time infant daycare in Empire, OH, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In Empire and the surrounding rural areas of Stark County, full-time infant daycare typically ranges from **$700 to $950 per month**. Costs can vary based on the type of care (center-based vs. in-home), the provider's amenities, and exact location. For financial assistance, Ohio offers the **Publicly Funded Child Care (PFCC) program**, which provides subsidies to eligible families based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or education). Applications are processed through the Stark County Department of Job and Family Services. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's important to inquire directly.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Empire, and what can I do to secure a spot for my child?
Due to the smaller, rural nature of Empire, licensed daycare options can be limited, and popular providers often have waitlists, especially for infants and toddlers. Waitlists can range from a few months to over a year. To secure a spot, it's advisable to **begin your search during pregnancy or at least 6-12 months before you need care**. Contact multiple providers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a small waitlist fee. Consider expanding your search to nearby towns like Minerva or Malvern. Staying in regular, polite contact with providers can also help. Exploring licensed family childcare homes, which may have more immediate openings, is another practical strategy.
What types of childcare options are most commonly available in a small town like Empire, Ohio?
Given Empire's small community, the most common options are **licensed family childcare homes** and **small, home-based preschool programs**. There are fewer large, corporate daycare centers compared to urban areas. Many families also rely on **relative care, nanny shares with neighboring families, or part-time nursery programs offered through local churches**. For school-age children, the local school district may offer before- and after-school care. The "village" atmosphere means networking with other parents through community groups or social media (like local Facebook groups) is often the best way to discover available and trusted in-home providers.
How does Ohio's Step Up To Quality (SUTQ) rating system work, and are there highly-rated programs near Empire?
Ohio's **Step Up To Quality (SUTQ)** is a voluntary 1- to 5-star rating system that recognizes childcare programs exceeding Ohio's licensing standards in areas like learning and development, staff qualifications, and family engagement. A higher star rating indicates a higher quality program. While Empire itself may have a limited number of rated programs, you can find SUTQ-rated centers and homes in nearby communities. Use the Ohio Child Care Search filter to look for programs with 3, 4, or 5-star ratings in Stark County. Choosing a SUTQ-rated provider, even if it requires a slightly longer commute, can offer significant benefits for your child's early education and development.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Empire: