The Best Daycare Centers in Howard, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Howard. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Howard
KinderCare Learning Center at Mount Vernon
KinderCare Education
This NAEYC-accredited center offers comprehensive early childhood education with research-based curriculum including phonics-based reading programs, STEM activities, and social-emotional learning. Features secure keypad entry, certified teachers with early childhood degrees, and age-appropriate learning environments with dedicated infant rooms, toddler classrooms, and preschool learning centers. The center emphasizes developmental milestones tracking and provides nutritious meals. Serves as a trusted option for Howard area families seeking high-quality corporate childcare with structured educational programming.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Mount Vernon
Goddard Systems, Inc.
This premier preschool offers F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. Features state-of-the-art security systems including electronic entry, live-streaming classroom cameras for parents, and rigorous safety protocols. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields. The curriculum focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies while promoting creativity and critical thinking. The facility includes age-specific playgrounds and modern classrooms with interactive technology, serving Howard families seeking advanced early education.
Daycare Services:
East Knox Child Care & Preschool
East Knox Local School District
Located directly in Howard, this school district-affiliated childcare center provides exceptional early learning experiences with strong community connections. Offers comprehensive curriculum aligned with Ohio Early Learning Standards, featuring literacy-rich environments, hands-on math and science activities, and character development programs. Maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios with highly qualified staff holding early childhood credentials. The center features secure facilities, nutritious meal programs, and integrated outdoor learning spaces. Particularly strong in school readiness preparation and serving as a community hub for local families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Howard, OH
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Howard, Ohio, and how can I verify a center is compliant?
In Howard, Ohio, all childcare centers and most in-home providers must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). Key requirements include background checks for all staff, specific staff-to-child ratios based on age (e.g., 1:5 for infants), health and safety training, and regular facility inspections. To verify a provider's license and view any inspection reports or compliance history, you can use the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool on the ODJFS website. This is a crucial first step for parents in Knox County to ensure a facility meets state-mandated safety and quality standards.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in the Howard area?
In Howard and the surrounding Knox County area, daycare costs are generally lower than in major Ohio cities but can vary based on the type of care. For a licensed childcare center, parents can expect to pay an average of **$700 to $950 per month** for full-time infant care. Home-based daycare programs may range from **$600 to $800 per month**. Prices for toddler care are typically $50-$100 less per month. It's important to ask what is included in the tuition, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. Limited local options mean there may be less price variation, so early inquiry is recommended.
Are there any state or local programs in Ohio that help with childcare costs for families in Howard?
Yes, eligible families in Howard can apply for assistance through Ohio's **Publicly Funded Child Care (PFCC)** program, administered by the Knox County Department of Job and Family Services. This program provides subsidies based on family income, size, and need (such as employment or education). Additionally, Ohio offers an **Income Tax Credit for Child and Dependent Care Expenses**. For local support, parents can contact the **Knox County Family and Children First Council** for resource navigation. Early application is key, as funding can be limited and there may be a waitlist for the PFCC program.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Howard, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to the limited number of childcare facilities in a smaller community like Howard, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant rooms. It is common to encounter waitlists of **6 to 12 months** for coveted spots. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy, get on multiple lists (including providers in nearby towns like Mount Vernon), and follow up with centers every 2-3 months to express continued interest. Some centers may require a non-refundable waitlist fee. Exploring licensed home-based providers in the area can also provide more immediate, albeit smaller-scale, options.
What are some key questions to ask when touring a daycare in Howard, given its rural setting?
Beyond standard questions about curriculum and safety, parents in Howard should ask location-specific questions. These include: **"What is your protocol for severe weather or power outages, given our rural area?"** (e.g., generator backup, communication plans). **"What are your hours of operation, and how flexible are you for parents commuting to Mount Vernon or Columbus for work?"** **"Do you have outdoor play space, and how do you handle children's exposure to local agriculture or natural elements?"** Also, inquire about staff longevity—low turnover is especially valuable in a small community—and how they facilitate social opportunities for children within a potentially smaller peer group.