The Best Daycare Centers in Haviland, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Haviland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Haviland
Tiny Tots Learning Center
Independent
Tiny Tots Learning Center is a highly-regarded childcare facility located just 15 minutes from Haviland in Paulding. They offer a comprehensive early childhood education program with a play-based learning approach that incorporates Ohio's Early Learning and Development Standards. The center features state-licensed teachers with specialized training in early childhood development, low student-to-teacher ratios, and secure facility access with surveillance systems. Their curriculum includes literacy development, STEM activities, creative arts, and social-emotional learning. The center provides nutritious meals and snacks through their in-house food program and maintains excellent safety records with regular emergency drills and health protocols.
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The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Fort Wayne serves families throughout the region including Haviland area residents commuting to the larger metro area. This nationally accredited facility offers F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social development. Features include degreed early childhood educators, secure keypad entry systems, live streaming classroom cameras for parents, and age-appropriate playgrounds. The curriculum emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies through hands-on learning. The school maintains rigorous health and safety protocols with certified staff in CPR and first aid, and offers flexible scheduling options for working families.
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Kidz Club Child Care & Learning Center
Independent
Kidz Club Child Care & Learning Center in Van Wert serves families throughout the region including Haviland, located approximately 20 minutes away. This established center provides a structured educational environment with a focus on school readiness through their comprehensive curriculum that includes phonics, mathematics, science exploration, and social skills development. The facility features secure access control, modern classroom technology, and outdoor learning environments. Staff members hold degrees in early childhood education and participate in ongoing professional development. The center is known for its strong parent communication system, daily activity reports, and family engagement events that build community connections.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Haviland, OH
What types of licensed childcare options are available in Haviland, Ohio, and how do I find them?
In Haviland, Ohio, licensed childcare options primarily include family childcare homes (in-home providers) and potentially center-based programs, though the latter may be limited within the village itself due to its small size. Many families in Paulding County, which includes Haviland, also utilize providers in nearby towns like Paulding, Payne, or Van Wert. To find licensed options, you should use the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) online "Child Care Search" tool. This database allows you to search by zip code (45851) and filter by provider type, hours, and accepted subsidies. You can also contact the local county Department of Job and Family Services office for referrals. Always verify a provider's license status and any recent inspection reports through ODJFS.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in the Haviland area?
Childcare costs in rural areas like Haviland and Paulding County are generally lower than in major Ohio cities, but options are fewer. For a licensed family childcare home, you can expect to pay approximately $120 to $160 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. Center-based care in nearby larger towns might range from $140 to $190 per week. These rates are estimates, and actual costs vary based on the provider's qualifications, program offerings, and included amenities. It's crucial to ask what the weekly fee includes (meals, snacks, curriculum, etc.). Financial assistance may be available through Ohio's publicly funded childcare program for eligible families, which you can apply for through the Paulding County DJFS.
Are there long waitlists for daycare in Haviland, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small community like Haviland, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care slots which have stricter staff-to-child ratios. It is highly advisable to begin your search at least 3 to 6 months before you need care, and if you are expecting a child, to get on lists during your second trimester. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current availability and typical waitlist timeframe. Don't limit your search to Haviland's zip code; be prepared to consider providers in a 15-20 mile radius. Building a relationship with a few providers and checking in periodically can also improve your chances of securing a spot.
What are the key state licensing requirements and safety standards I should verify with a Haviland daycare provider?
All licensed providers in Ohio must comply with ODJFS rules. Key requirements you should ask about include: staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:7 for toddlers), background checks (BCI and FBI) for all employees, annual training in first aid, CPR, and child abuse prevention, and safe sleep practices for infants. Providers must also have a current health and fire inspection approval. You have the right to ask to see the provider's license, which should be posted. Additionally, inquire about their emergency plans for events like fires or severe weather common to Northwest Ohio, and their policies on illness, medication administration, and outdoor play safety.
What resources or programs are available in Paulding County to help parents evaluate and choose quality childcare?
A vital local resource is the "Bright Beginnings" program, often facilitated through the Paulding County Ohio State University Extension office or the local Help Me Grow program. These organizations can provide guidance on what to look for in a quality setting. They may offer checklists for visits and questions to ask providers. Furthermore, you can utilize Ohio's **Step Up To Quality (SUTQ)** rating system. This voluntary program rates licensed providers on a 1- to 5-star scale based on higher standards in learning, development, and professional training. While not all providers participate, choosing a SUTQ-rated program is a strong indicator of quality. Contact the Paulding County Department of Job and Family Services for the most current list of local resources and support programs.
Childcare Insights for Haviland
Finding quality, affordable childcare is one of the most significant challenges for families, and if you're a parent in Haviland, Ohio, you know that balancing your budget with the need for excellent care is paramount. The search for "affordable daycares near me" in our small, close-knit community often means looking not just within our village limits but also to the surrounding areas of Paulding County. The good news is that with a little local knowledge and a proactive approach, you can find nurturing and reliable childcare options that won't break the bank.
Start your search by tapping into the most valuable resource we have: our community network. Talk to other parents at the park, after church, or during local events. Personal recommendations in a town like Haviland carry immense weight and can lead you to trusted in-home providers or smaller daycare settings that may not have a large online presence. These home-based options are often a cornerstone of affordable childcare in our area, offering flexible hours and a family-like atmosphere. Don't hesitate to also check with the Haviland United Methodist Church or other local organizations, as they sometimes host preschool programs or have connections to reputable caregivers.
While Haviland itself is residential, your search will naturally extend to nearby towns like Paulding, Payne, and even as far as Van Wert or Defiance for more center-based options. When comparing costs, remember that "affordable" must also mean sustainable and trustworthy. It’s crucial to visit any potential daycare, whether a center or a home. During your visit, ask about their state licensing, caregiver-to-child ratios, daily routines, and their philosophy on discipline and learning. Ohio’s Department of Job and Family Services website is an essential tool; you can verify a provider’s license status and review any past inspection reports, giving you peace of mind that standards are being met.
Be sure to inquire about all aspects of the fee structure. Some providers in our region may offer sliding scale fees based on income, sibling discounts, or more manageable weekly rates as opposed to monthly. Also, explore financial assistance programs. Many Ohio families qualify for help through the Publicly Funded Child Care program, which can substantially reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Your local Paulding County Department of Job and Family Services office can guide you through the eligibility process.
Finally, trust your instincts. The right daycare for your family will feel like a partnership. The caregivers should be warm, communicative, and genuinely interested in your child's well-being. In a community like Haviland, where people look out for one another, finding a childcare provider who becomes an extension of your family support system is not just a hope—it’s a very real possibility. With patience and thorough research, you can find a safe, engaging, and affordable place where your child can thrive while you work or manage your daily responsibilities with greater confidence.