The Best Daycare Centers in Kingston, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Kingston. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Kingston
Kiddie Academy of Chillicothe
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Chillicothe is a nationally recognized educational childcare center serving the Kingston area with a comprehensive Life Essentials® curriculum. The facility features state-certified teachers with early childhood education credentials, secure keypad entry systems, and modern learning environments. Their program emphasizes character development, STEM activities, and literacy development through structured play and hands-on learning. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and offers nutritious meal programs. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, cleanliness, and the developmental progress they see in their children.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Chillicothe
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Chillicothe offers a premier early childhood education program serving families in the Kingston region. Their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program combines academic learning with play-based activities, focusing on social, emotional, and cognitive development. The facility features bright, modern classrooms, secure entry systems, and age-appropriate outdoor play areas. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the center maintains rigorous safety protocols including regular staff training and comprehensive background checks. The program includes Spanish language exposure, yoga, and music enrichment activities.
Daycare Services:
Little Buckeye Learning Center
Independent
Little Buckeye Learning Center is a locally owned and operated childcare facility serving the Kingston area with a strong focus on individualized development and community values. The center employs experienced early childhood educators who create customized learning plans for each child. Their curriculum balances structured academic preparation with creative expression and physical development activities. The facility includes separate age-appropriate playgrounds, modern security systems, and spacious classrooms designed to stimulate learning. Parents appreciate the center's family-like atmosphere, consistent communication through daily reports, and the staff's dedication to each child's unique needs and milestones.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Kingston, OH
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Kingston, Ohio, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Kingston and throughout Ohio, childcare providers must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) unless they are legally exempt (like certain in-home care for a limited number of children). Licensed centers and family childcare homes must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training in CPR, first aid, and child development), safe environments, and health and safety practices. To verify a provider's license and inspection history, you can use the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool on the ODJFS website. This public database shows the license status, any recent violations, and the program's star rating under Ohio's Step Up To Quality (SUTQ) system, which is a voluntary quality rating program many Kingston providers participate in.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Kingston, OH, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Kingston and surrounding Ross County area, costs can vary based on the type of care and its quality rating. On average, parents can expect to pay between **$130 to $180 per week** for a licensed family childcare home and **$160 to $220 per week** for a center-based program for an infant or toddler. These rates are generally lower than in major Ohio metropolitan areas. For financial assistance, the **Ross County Department of Job and Family Services** administers the state's publicly funded childcare program. Eligibility is based on income, work, or school requirements. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's crucial to inquire directly with providers and contact Ross County DJFS to apply for aid.
How long are waitlists for daycare centers in Kingston, and what can I do to secure a spot for my child?
Due to limited high-quality options in a smaller community like Kingston, waitlists for preferred centers, especially for infants, can be significant. It's not uncommon for waitlists to be **6 to 12 months long**. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Contact multiple providers (including both centers and licensed family homes in Kingston and nearby towns like Chillicothe). Get on multiple waitlists, even if there's a small fee. Maintain regular contact (e.g., a check-in call every 2-3 months) to show continued interest. Also, be flexible with your desired start date if possible, as spots may open unexpectedly.
What are the options for part-time or non-traditional hours childcare in Kingston, Ohio?
Finding part-time or evening/weekend care in a small town like Kingston can be challenging, as most centers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM schedule. Your best options are typically **licensed family childcare homes**, which may offer more flexible arrangements, or **in-home nannies or babysitters**. You can search for licensed family providers through the Ohio Child Care Search tool and filter for those in your ZIP code. For occasional or backup care, networking through local Facebook groups (e.g., "Kingston, OH Community") or asking for recommendations from other parents at the Kingston United Methodist Church or local playgrounds can help you find trusted individuals. Some providers in nearby Chillicothe may also offer more shift-based care.
What should I look for during a tour of a daycare facility in Kingston, and are there any local resources to help me compare options?
During a tour, observe the cleanliness, safety (outlet covers, secure gates), and whether children are engaged and happy. Ask about staff turnover, daily routines, meal plans, and their sick policy. Inquire about their **Step Up To Quality (SUTQ) rating**—a higher star rating (3-5 stars) indicates a commitment to exceeding state minimums. For local comparison, use the Ohio Child Care Search tool and read inspection reports. Additionally, talk to other parents in the community. The **Ross County Early Childhood Direction Center** (often accessed through the Ross County Board of Developmental Disabilities) can be a resource for information and referrals. Don't hesitate to ask for references from current parents, which is common practice in a close-knit community like Kingston.