The Best Daycare Centers in Groveport, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Groveport. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Groveport
The Goddard School of Groveport
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Groveport offers a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic readiness, social development, and creative expression. Their play-based curriculum is developed by early childhood education experts and includes STEAM learning, sign language for infants, and character development programs. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, modern classrooms. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and participate in ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences, with a strong focus on individualized learning plans for each child.
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Groveport KinderCare
KinderCare Learning Companies
Groveport KinderCare provides a research-based curriculum that focuses on early literacy, math, science, and social skills development. Their approach includes hands-on learning experiences and structured play that aligns with Ohio's early learning standards. The center features secure keypad entry, dedicated age-specific learning centers, and outdoor play areas with safety surfaces. Teachers receive comprehensive training in child development, safety protocols, and curriculum implementation. The program includes nutritious meals and snacks, regular developmental assessments, and strong parent engagement through the KinderCare mobile app for daily updates and communication.
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Primrose School of Pickerington
Primrose Schools
Located just minutes from Groveport in neighboring Pickerington, Primrose School offers the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. Their curriculum emphasizes character development, literacy, math, and science through hands-on exploration. The state-of-the-art facility includes secure entry systems, age-appropriate learning environments, and outdoor discovery playgrounds. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education, and the school maintains low student-teacher ratios. The program includes healthy meals prepared on-site, regular parent-teacher conferences, and a strong emphasis on building social-emotional skills through their exclusive Harmony & Heart® curriculum.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Groveport, OH
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool for an infant or toddler in Groveport, Ohio?
In Groveport and the surrounding Franklin County area, costs vary based on the type of care and the child's age. For a licensed daycare center, full-time infant care typically ranges from $1,100 to $1,400 per month. Toddler care (ages 1-3) is slightly less, often between $950 and $1,250 per month. Home-based family childcare providers in Groveport may offer more affordable rates, generally between $700 and $1,000 monthly. It's important to note that these are estimates, and prices can be higher for centers with specialized curricula or extended hours. Many facilities include meals and snacks in their tuition, but always confirm what is covered. Parents are encouraged to apply for Ohio's publicly funded childcare program through the Franklin County Department of Job and Family Services to see if they qualify for financial assistance based on income.
How do I verify that a daycare or childcare provider in Groveport is properly licensed and safe?
All childcare programs in Ohio, including those in Groveport, must be licensed or certified by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any compliance violations by using the online **Ohio Child Care Search Tool**. This public database shows the provider's star rating (a 1- to 5-star Step Up To Quality rating), their license type, capacity, and detailed reports from recent inspections. When visiting a potential daycare in Groveport, don't hesitate to ask the director for their license number and their most recent inspection summary. A reputable provider will be transparent. You can also contact the ODJFS Office for Franklin County directly for additional verification.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Groveport, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to high demand in the Columbus metro area, which includes Groveport, waitlists for infant and toddler spots at highly-rated centers are common and can be lengthy. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search **6 to 12 months** before their needed start date, especially for infant care. Some popular centers in and around Groveport may have waitlists exceeding a year. To manage this, compile a list of 3-5 preferred options (including both centers and licensed family homes) and get on multiple waitlists as soon as possible. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee, which typically ranges from $25 to $100. Flexibility with your start date can also improve your chances of securing a spot sooner.
What types of childcare options are most commonly available in Groveport, beyond large daycare centers?
Groveport offers a mix of childcare options to suit different family needs. Beyond national or regional daycare chains, you can find: * **Licensed Family Child Care Homes:** Often smaller, home-based settings with a more intimate environment, typically caring for 6-12 children. * **In-Home Providers (Nannies/Au Pairs):** While not licensed as facilities, many families in Groveport use private nannies, often found through local agencies or online platforms serving the Columbus area. * **Faith-Based Preschools & Daycares:** Several local churches offer preschool programs, which may be part-time or full-day, often with a faith-based curriculum. * **Employer-Sponsored Care:** Some large employers in the greater Columbus area offer partnerships with nearby centers or backup care services. For school-age children, the **Groveport Madison School District** also offers before- and after-school care programs at many of its elementary schools.
What are the key local resources for parents in Groveport to find and evaluate childcare providers?
Parents in Groveport have several excellent local resources: 1. **Ohio Child Care Search Tool:** The primary statewide database for licensed providers. 2. **Action for Children:** This is the central Ohio child care resource and referral agency. They offer a personalized referral service, parenting resources, and guidance on paying for care. You can call them or use their online search tailored to the Columbus region. 3. **Groveport Madison Local Schools:** The district website and individual school offices can often provide information about preschool programs and school-age care. 4. **Local Community Centers & Libraries:** The Groveport Recreation Center and the Columbus Metropolitan Library - Groveport Branch often have bulletin boards with flyers for local family childcare providers and can be a great place to ask other parents for personal recommendations. 5. **Franklin County Department of Job and Family Services:** For applying for publicly funded childcare assistance and understanding local subsidy programs.