The Best Daycare Centers in Harrisburg, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Harrisburg. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Harrisburg
Primrose School of Pickerington
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Pickerington offers a nationally accredited Balanced Learning® curriculum that blends teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. Their approach focuses on character development, literacy, math, science, and social skills through hands-on learning experiences. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor learning environments. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences, serving families throughout the Harrisburg area with comprehensive early education programs.
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The Goddard School of Pickerington
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Pickerington provides a play-based learning approach through their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience), focusing on academic, social, and emotional development. The facility features modern classrooms, multiple playgrounds, and enhanced security systems. All teachers meet or exceed state qualifications and participate in continuous training. The curriculum includes STEAM learning, language development, and physical activities. Parents receive regular updates through a proprietary mobile app, and the school maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios. Serving Harrisburg area families, they offer flexible scheduling and enrichment programs.
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KinderCare Learning Center at Canal Winchester
KinderCare Education
KinderCare at Canal Winchester offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with a research-based curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social skills. The center features secure keypad entry, dedicated age-based classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Their team includes qualified early childhood educators with background checks and ongoing training. The program includes phonics-based reading readiness, hands-on math activities, and character development. Parents receive daily communication about their child's activities and progress. Located conveniently for Harrisburg commuters, they provide full-time and part-time care options with transportation services for school-age children.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Harrisburg, OH
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Harrisburg, Ohio, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Harrisburg, Ohio, all childcare providers caring for more than six children must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). This includes family childcare homes (7-12 children) and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training), and facility safety. To verify a provider's license, you can use the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool on the ODJFS website. Simply enter the provider's name or zip code (43126 for Harrisburg) to view their current license status, any inspection reports, and compliance history. This is a crucial first step for any parent in the area.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Harrisburg, OH?
In Harrisburg and the surrounding Pickaway County area, daycare costs are generally more affordable than in larger Ohio metro areas like Columbus. For full-time care (5 days a week), you can expect to pay approximately **$150 to $225 per week** for an infant or toddler at a licensed childcare center. In-home family daycare providers may range from **$120 to $180 per week**. These rates are estimates, and specific costs vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and staff credentials. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly fee (e.g., meals, diapers, formula). Some local providers may offer sibling discounts.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Harrisburg, and how far in advance should I start looking?
While Harrisburg is a smaller community, popular local daycare centers and highly-regarded in-home providers can have limited spots, especially for infants. It is common to encounter waitlists of **3 to 6 months** for infant care. We recommend starting your search **at least 6 months before your needed start date**, if possible. Be proactive: contact multiple providers, schedule tours, and get on their waitlists even if you are still deciding. For older toddlers or preschool-age children, availability may be better, but it's still wise to begin inquiries 3-4 months ahead. Flexibility with your start date can improve your chances of securing a spot.
What types of childcare programs are most commonly available in Harrisburg for preschool-age children?
Harrisburg offers several options for children ages 3-5. Many local licensed childcare centers offer **preschool programs** integrated into their full-day daycare. Additionally, the **Logan Elm Local School District** may offer preschool services for eligible children, though these are often part-day programs. Some faith-based organizations in the area also run preschool programs. A popular local option is a structured preschool curriculum within a daycare setting, which provides both education and full-day care to accommodate working parents' schedules. When touring, ask about their curriculum, kindergarten readiness goals, and if they follow Ohio's Early Learning and Development Standards.
What local resources or agencies in Pickaway County can help me find and choose quality childcare in Harrisburg?
The primary resource for Harrisburg parents is **Pickaway County Job and Family Services (PCJFS)**. They administer the state's childcare assistance program for income-eligible families and can provide referrals to licensed providers. Another key agency is **Action for Children**, which serves Central Ohio, including Pickaway County. They offer a free **Child Care Referral Service** where a specialist can match your family's needs (hours, location, budget) with licensed providers in the 43126 zip code. You can contact them online or by phone. These agencies can also provide guidance on quality indicators and questions to ask during tours.