The Best Daycare Centers in Friendship, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Friendship. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Friendship
KinderCare Learning Center - Portsmouth
KinderCare Education
KinderCare in Portsmouth is a highly-rated childcare center known for its research-based curriculum that emphasizes whole-child development through play and structured learning. The center offers age-appropriate programs for infants through school-age children, focusing on literacy, math, science, and social skills. Teachers are credentialed in early childhood education and maintain low student-to-teacher ratios for personalized attention. Safety features include secured entry systems, daily health checks, and emergency preparedness drills. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, nurturing environment, and engaging activities that foster curiosity and growth.
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Portsmouth Child Development Center
Independent
Portsmouth Child Development Center provides a supportive and educational environment with a focus on individualized learning and community involvement. Their curriculum integrates creative arts, language development, and motor skills activities, aligned with Ohio's early learning standards. The center boasts experienced staff with backgrounds in child development and ongoing training in safety protocols. Facilities include spacious indoor play areas and outdoor playgrounds designed for age-appropriate exploration. Parents highlight the center's family-friendly atmosphere, healthy meal programs, and strong emphasis on social-emotional development.
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Little Lambs Christian Preschool & Daycare
Independent
Little Lambs Christian Preschool & Daycare offers a faith-based approach to early childhood education, blending academic readiness with character development and biblical values. The curriculum includes hands-on learning in literacy, math, and science, complemented by music, art, and physical activities. Staff are certified in early education and first aid, maintaining small class sizes for individualized care. The center features safe, clean facilities with monitored access and outdoor play spaces. Parents appreciate the warm, nurturing environment, regular progress updates, and the center's commitment to fostering kindness and respect in children.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Friendship, OH
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Friendship, Ohio, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Friendship, 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). Licensed providers must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training in CPR, first aid, and child abuse prevention), health and safety procedures, and facility requirements. To verify a provider's license and inspection history, you can use the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool on the ODJFS website. Simply enter the provider's name or location. It's also wise to ask the provider directly for their license number and their most recent inspection report, which they are required to post.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Friendship, OH, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Friendship and the surrounding Scioto County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from **$130 to $180 per week**, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging **$110 to $150 per week**. These costs can vary based on the type of facility (center-based vs. in-home) and the specific programs offered. For financial assistance, Ohio's **Publicly Funded Child Care (PFCC)** program helps eligible low-income families. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work/training requirements. Applications are processed through the Scioto County Department of Job and Family Services. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's important to inquire directly.
Are daycare waitlists common in Friendship, and what can I do to secure a spot for my child in a timely manner?
Yes, waitlists for infant and toddler spots, particularly at highly-rated centers or licensed in-home providers, are common in Friendship due to limited capacity. It is strongly recommended to begin your search **at least 6 to 9 months** before you need care. When contacting providers, ask specifically about their current availability and waitlist process (e.g., if there's a fee to join, how often they update the list). To improve your chances, consider expanding your search to nearby communities like Portsmouth or West Portsmouth. Being flexible with your start date and having a backup plan, such as a temporary arrangement with a family member or a less-preferred provider, is also advisable.
What types of childcare settings are most commonly available in Friendship, and what are the key differences?
Parents in Friendship typically have three main options: **licensed childcare centers**, **licensed family childcare homes**, and **legally unlicensed in-home providers** (caring for 6 or fewer children from one other family). Centers often offer structured curricula, multiple staff, and larger facilities but may have higher costs and stricter schedules. Licensed family homes provide a more home-like environment with mixed-age groups and potentially more flexible hours, often at a lower cost. Unlicensed providers offer maximum flexibility but are not subject to state inspections. For regulated safety and quality, choosing a state-licensed option (center or home) is generally recommended. Given Friendship's size, family childcare homes are a very prevalent and popular choice.
Beyond basic care, what educational or enrichment programs should I look for in a Friendship daycare?
Even in a smaller community like Friendship, quality daycares should offer age-appropriate learning. Look for providers that incorporate elements of Ohio's **Early Learning and Development Standards** into their daily activities. This includes fostering early literacy (reading, storytelling), basic math concepts, social-emotional skills, and physical development. Many local providers partner with programs like the **Dolly Parton Imagination Library** (which mails free books to children) or participate in the **Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP)** for nutritious meals. Ask about daily schedules, outdoor play areas (important in a rural setting), and how they communicate your child's progress. Some may also offer introductory activities related to local culture or nature, leveraging the surrounding Appalachian environment.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Friendship: