The Best Daycare Centers in Gratiot, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Gratiot. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Gratiot
The Goddard School of Zanesville
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Zanesville offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. Their play-based curriculum includes STEAM learning, sign language for infants, and kindergarten readiness programs. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, modern classrooms. All teachers are highly qualified with ongoing professional development, and the school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios. The center is known for its strong communication with parents through daily reports and a dedicated mobile app.
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KinderCare at Northpointe
KinderCare Learning Companies
KinderCare at Northpointe provides comprehensive early childhood education with a research-based curriculum that supports literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center features dedicated learning centers, secure keypad entry, and outdoor play areas designed for different age groups. Their team includes experienced early childhood educators with CPR and First Aid certification. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through the KinderCare curriculum, which aligns with state early learning standards. Parents appreciate the consistent communication and the center's focus on creating a nurturing, inclusive environment.
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Little Buckeye Learning Center
Independent
Little Buckeye Learning Center is a locally-owned childcare facility serving the Zanesville area with a strong reputation for quality care and education. The center uses Creative Curriculum that incorporates Ohio's Early Learning and Development Standards, focusing on whole-child development through play-based learning. Their experienced teaching staff maintains low child-to-teacher ratios and participates in ongoing professional development. The facility includes secure classrooms, age-appropriate learning materials, and safe outdoor play spaces. The center is particularly noted for its family-like atmosphere and individualized attention to each child's developmental needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Gratiot, OH
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Gratiot, Ohio, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Gratiot and the surrounding Licking County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $175 to $225 per week, while toddler care is slightly lower, around $150 to $200 per week. Preschool programs for 3-5 year olds often cost between $130 and $180 per week. These rates are generally lower than in larger Ohio cities like Columbus but can vary based on the facility's amenities and curriculum. For financial assistance, Ohio's publicly funded childcare program is administered through the Licking County Department of Job and Family Services (JFS). Eligibility is based on income, work, or school requirements. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's highly recommended to contact Licking County JFS directly to determine your eligibility for state aid.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Gratiot, Ohio?
All childcare providers in Ohio, including those in Gratiot, must be licensed or certified by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) unless they are legally exempt (like certain in-home care for a limited number of children). You can verify a provider's license status and review their compliance history through the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool online. This public database shows the provider's license type, capacity, any serious violations (like "Step Up To Quality" ratings), and inspection reports. You can search by provider name, city, or zip code. For a more personal touch, you can also call the ODJFS Office of Families and Children or the local Licking County JFS office to ask questions about a specific provider's record.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Gratiot, and what's the best strategy for securing a spot?
Due to Gratiot's smaller, more rural setting, the number of licensed daycare centers is limited compared to urban areas. Popular centers and in-home providers often have waitlists, especially for infant care, which can range from a few months to over a year. The best strategy is to start your search early, ideally during pregnancy. Contact multiple providers to get on their waitlists, even if you're not certain of your return-to-work date. Don't overlook licensed Type B family childcare homes in residential areas, as they can be more readily available and offer a home-like setting. Being flexible with your start date and checking in periodically with providers on the list can also improve your chances.
What are the options for before and after-school care for school-age children in the Gratiot area?
For school-age children attending the local Sheridan Local School District (which serves Gratiot), the primary option is often the school district's own program, if available. You should contact Sheridan Elementary School directly to inquire about their before/after-school care offerings, hours, and costs. Some licensed family childcare homes in the area may also provide transportation to and from school and offer care on school breaks and snow days. Given the rural nature, organized programs can be sparse, so networking with other parents through community groups or social media can help identify trusted in-home providers or nanny shares for after-school care.
What should I look for when touring a daycare or preschool in Gratiot, and are there any local quality indicators?
When touring a facility in Gratiot, look beyond the basics. Observe caregiver-child interactions—are they engaged and responsive? Check for cleanliness and safety, including secure outdoor play areas. Ask about staff qualifications, turnover rates, and the adult-to-child ratio (Ohio mandates specific ratios, but lower is often better). In Ohio, a key quality indicator is the **"Step Up To Quality" (SUTQ)** rating, a voluntary state program that rates providers from 1 to 5 stars. A rated provider, even with 1 star, meets standards beyond licensing. Ask if they participate. Also, inquire about their curriculum for preschoolers and how they communicate with parents daily. Given the small community, ask for references from current families and trust your instincts about the environment's warmth and professionalism.