The Best Daycare Centers in Freeport, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Freeport. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Freeport
KinderCare Learning Center at New Philadelphia
KinderCare Education
KinderCare Learning Center at New Philadelphia is a highly-regarded facility serving the Freeport area with a comprehensive, research-based curriculum that emphasizes early literacy, mathematics, science, and social-emotional development. The center features age-appropriate classrooms with dedicated learning centers, secure keypad entry systems, and regularly sanitized facilities. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and staff undergo continuous professional development. The program includes daily communication with parents through an app, nutritious meals and snacks provided, and outdoor play areas designed for safe exploration. What sets this center apart is its strong focus on school readiness through structured activities and its inclusion of enrichment programs like music and movement.
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The Goddard School of Dover
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Dover offers a premier early childhood education experience with its F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) Learning Program, which blends play-based learning with academic readiness. The school maintains low teacher-to-child ratios, and all educators are required to have early childhood education credentials or degrees. Safety is prioritized with secured premises, background-checked staff, and real-time parent updates via a mobile app. The facility includes bright, spacious classrooms, an enclosed outdoor playground, and dedicated art and music areas. Standout features include a focus on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) activities, language immersion options, and a strong emphasis on social skills and character development.
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Harrison County Early Learning Center
Harrison County Job and Family Services
Harrison County Early Learning Center is a community-focused childcare provider known for its nurturing environment and commitment to affordable, high-quality care. The center uses a developmental milestones-based curriculum that incorporates Creative Curriculum elements, tailored to each child's needs. Staff are trained in CPR, First Aid, and early childhood best practices, with many holding Child Development Associate (CDA) credentials. The facility features secure access, hygienic play spaces, and a nutritious food program that meets USDA guidelines. Parents appreciate the center's strong communication, inclusive atmosphere, and emphasis on school readiness through hands-on learning and literacy enrichment. Its longevity and deep roots in the local community make it a trusted choice for families in the Freeport area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Freeport, OH
What are the typical costs for daycare or preschool in Freeport, Ohio, and are there any local assistance programs?
In Freeport and the surrounding Harrison County area, daycare costs are generally lower than in major Ohio cities. For a full-time, licensed in-home daycare, you might expect to pay between $120-$160 per week per child. A licensed childcare center typically ranges from $140-$200 per week. Preschool programs can vary, often costing $100-$150 per week. It's important to note that availability can be limited, so prices may vary. For financial assistance, Ohio's publicly funded childcare program is administered through the **Harrison County Department of Job and Family Services (DJFS)**. Eligibility is based on income, work, or school attendance. You can apply directly through their office or online via the Ohio Benefits portal. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts.
How can I verify if a daycare or in-home provider in Freeport is properly licensed and check their compliance history?
All childcare providers in Ohio caring for more than six children must be licensed by the **Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS)**. To verify a provider's license and review their inspection history, you should use the official **Ohio Child Care Search** tool online. This resource allows you to search by provider name, location (including Freeport, OH 43973), or county (Harrison). It will show you their license type, status, capacity, and any cited non-compliance issues from their last several inspections. You can also contact the **ODJFS Southeast Regional Office** for additional information. Always ask to see a provider's current license during your visit.
What are the main types of childcare options available specifically within Freeport, and how do I find them?
Given Freeport's small, rural community, options are primarily home-based. The main types are: 1) **Licensed Type A Family Child Care Homes** (caring for 7-12 children in a residence), 2) **Licensed Type B Family Child Care Homes** (caring for 1-6 children, often a relative), and 3) **Licensed Child Care Centers**, though these are less common within village limits and may require travel to nearby towns like Cadiz or Uhrichsville. To find them, start with the Ohio Child Care Search online, check community bulletin boards at the Freeport Post Office or Village Hall, and ask for personal recommendations through local Facebook groups (e.g., "Freeport, Ohio Community Page") or word-of-mouth, which is very influential in close-knit areas.
Are there long waitlists for daycare in Freeport, and what should I do to secure a spot as soon as possible?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small village like Freeport, waitlists are common and can be several months long, especially for infants and toddlers. To secure a spot, it is recommended to begin your search during pregnancy or at least 4-6 months before you need care. Contact providers directly to inquire about their current availability and waitlist procedures. Many in-home providers in the area manage their own informal lists. Be prepared to put your name on multiple lists and follow up periodically. Building a relationship with a provider by visiting and expressing genuine interest can also be beneficial in a community where personal connections matter.
What local resources or organizations in Harrison County can help me navigate finding quality childcare near Freeport?
Your primary local resource is **Harrison County Help Me Grow**, which serves families with children prenatal to age three. They can provide developmental screenings and connect you with early childhood resources. For broader childcare referral and quality information, contact **Bright Beginnings**, the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency serving Harrison County. They can provide personalized lists of licensed providers in your area. Additionally, the **Harrison Hills City School District** may have information about preschool partnerships or community programs. For support and networking, consider joining the "Harrison County Moms" or similar local social media groups where parents often share experiences and recommendations.