The Best Daycare Centers in Hilliard, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Hilliard. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Hilliard
The Goddard School of Hilliard
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Hilliard offers a play-based learning approach with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic, social, and emotional development. Their curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development programs. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes individualized learning plans and maintains low student-to-teacher ratios for personalized attention.
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Kiddie Academy of Hilliard
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Hilliard provides comprehensive educational childcare with their Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, mathematics, and social skills. The academy features secure facilities with keypad entry, dedicated learning centers, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Their programs include technology integration, music and movement, and health and fitness activities. The staff includes certified early childhood educators with background checks and ongoing training. Parents receive regular updates through the Academy's communication app about their child's daily activities and developmental progress.
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Primrose School of Hilliard at Mill Run
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Hilliard at Mill Run offers the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach that combines teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a focus on character development and academics. Their curriculum includes literacy development, mathematics, science, social studies, and creative arts. The school features secure facilities with surveillance systems, age-specific learning environments, and multiple outdoor play areas. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive extensive training in the Primrose curriculum. The school emphasizes partnership with families through regular communication and parent involvement opportunities, while providing nutritious meals and snacks prepared on-site.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Hilliard, OH
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Hilliard, Ohio?
In Hilliard, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,600 per month, while toddler care often falls between $1,000 and $1,400 per month. These rates are influenced by the type of facility—center-based programs are generally at the higher end of this range, while licensed in-home providers may be slightly more affordable. Costs can also vary based on specific programs, such as those with specialized curricula or extended hours. It's important to note that these are averages, and some premium centers may charge more. Many facilities in Hilliard include meals and basic supplies in their tuition, but always confirm what is covered. We recommend contacting several providers directly for their most current rates and fee structures.
How do I verify that a daycare or preschool in Hilliard is properly licensed and what should I look for in their inspection reports?
All licensed childcare providers in Hilliard must be regulated by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). You can verify a provider's license and review their compliance history through the publicly accessible **Ohio Child Care Search** tool on the ODJFS website. When reviewing a provider's record, pay close attention to the date of their last inspection, the number of non-compliance citations (rules violations), and the nature of those citations. Look for patterns—occasional minor administrative issues are common, but repeated serious violations concerning child safety, staff-to-child ratios, or health standards are significant red flags. You can also contact the local ODJFS office serving Franklin County for additional information. Always ask the provider directly about any past violations and how they were corrected.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Hilliard, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Yes, waitlists are common for many highly-regarded daycare centers and preschools in Hilliard, especially for infant rooms which have stricter staff-to-child ratios. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists **6 to 12 months** before your needed start date. For popular centers, you may even consider inquiring during pregnancy. Waitlists for toddler and preschool-aged children tend to be shorter, but starting 3-6 months in advance is still prudent. When contacting a center, ask specific questions: their current waitlist length, whether a deposit is required to hold a spot (and if it's refundable), and how often they update families on their position. Exploring a mix of larger centers, church-affiliated programs, and licensed family childcare homes can increase your options.
What are some of the key factors to consider when choosing between a large daycare center and a licensed in-home family childcare provider in Hilliard?
The choice depends on your family's priorities. **Large Centers** (like those in the Hilliard City Schools district or national chains) often offer structured curricula, multiple classrooms by age, larger peer groups, and may have more resources for special activities. They typically follow strict ODJFS regulations and have multiple staff members. **Licensed Family Childcare Homes** provide a smaller, home-like setting with mixed-age groups, which can be beneficial for siblings. They often offer more flexible hours and may have a smaller child-to-provider ratio, though the total number of children is capped by law. In Hilliard, consider your commute, as in-home providers may be more neighborhood-based. Visit both types, observe interactions, and check their licenses. Ask about their emergency plans, daily schedules, and philosophy on discipline and learning.
Does the City of Hilliard or local organizations offer any resources or assistance for finding and paying for childcare?
Yes, there are several local resources. First, **Action for Children** is the designated Child Care Resource and Referral (CCRR) agency for Franklin County, including Hilliard. They offer a free personalized referral service to help match your family with licensed providers based on your needs, location, and budget. Secondly, for financial assistance, you may qualify for the **Ohio Department of Job and Family Services Publicly Funded Child Care** program, which provides subsidies based on income, work, or school requirements. You apply through the Franklin County Department of Job and Family Services. Additionally, some Hilliard employers may offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). It's also worth checking with local community centers and churches, as some may offer preschool programs at lower costs or have scholarship opportunities.