The Best Daycare Centers in Lakewood, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lakewood. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lakewood
Primrose School of Westlake
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Westlake offers a nationally accredited Balanced Learning® curriculum that combines teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. Their approach focuses on developing the whole child through character development, literacy, math, science, and social studies. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes partnership with parents through regular communication and developmental updates.
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The Goddard School of Lakewood
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Lakewood provides a play-based learning environment with F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that promotes social, emotional, and academic development. The facility includes secure classrooms, multiple playgrounds, and enrichment programs in music, art, and technology. All teachers are qualified in early childhood education and participate in continuous training. The school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and emphasizes individualized learning plans. Safety protocols include secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills.
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Lakewood Child Care Center
Lakewood Child Care Center, Inc.
Lakewood Child Care Center is a locally owned, state-licensed facility serving the Lakewood community with a developmental approach to early childhood education. Their curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through centers including literacy, math, science, and creative arts. The center features secure facilities with dedicated infant rooms, toddler classrooms, and preschool learning environments. Staff members hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The program includes nutritious meals and snacks, outdoor play in secure playgrounds, and strong parent-teacher partnerships through regular conferences and communication.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lakewood, OH
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Lakewood, Ohio?
In Lakewood, full-time daycare costs can vary significantly based on the type of center, its amenities, and the age of your child. For an infant (under 18 months), you can expect to pay between $1,200 and $1,600 per month at a licensed center. For toddlers (18 months to 3 years), monthly costs typically range from $1,000 to $1,400. Home-based daycare providers (licensed Type A family childcare homes) are often slightly less expensive, ranging from $800 to $1,200 monthly. These rates are competitive with the broader Cleveland metro area. It's important to ask what is included in tuition, such as meals, snacks, diapers, and enrichment programs, as these can affect the overall value.
How long are waitlists for quality daycare centers in Lakewood, and how can I secure a spot?
Waitlists for highly-rated daycare centers and preschools in Lakewood are common and can be lengthy, especially for infant rooms. It's not unusual for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. To secure a spot, we recommend starting your search during pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before your needed start date. Contact multiple centers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $25-$100). Follow up every few months to express continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to include excellent licensed family childcare homes in nearby neighborhoods like Rocky River or Cleveland's West Park, as they may have more immediate availability.
What are Ohio's licensing requirements for daycare providers, and how can I verify a Lakewood provider's compliance?
In Ohio, all childcare providers caring for more than six children at any one time must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). This includes daycare centers and Type A family homes (7-12 children). Type B family homes (1-6 children) are certified, not licensed, but still undergo background checks and basic safety inspections. You can and should verify a provider's licensing status, inspection reports, and any past violations through the publicly available **Ohio Child Care Search** tool on the ODJFS website. This tool shows their star rating (1-5 stars) under Ohio's Step Up To Quality (SUTQ) voluntary rating system. Always choose a licensed or certified provider and review their latest inspection reports for peace of mind.
Are there any unique childcare resources or assistance programs available specifically to Lakewood residents?
Yes, Lakewood residents have access to several local and county resources. A key resource is **Bright Beginnings**, Lakewood's early childhood PTA, which offers support, playgroups, and information for parents of young children. For financial assistance, the **Cuyahoga County Department of Health and Human Services** administers the state's publicly funded childcare program, which can help eligible families pay for care at participating providers. Additionally, the **Lakewood Family Room**, a collaborative program with the Lakewood City School District, offers free early learning playgroups and parenting resources. For navigating options, you can contact **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) of Cuyahoga County** for free, personalized referrals and advice.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare center or home in Lakewood?
When touring a facility in Lakewood, go beyond the basics. First, observe the **staff-to-child ratios** and how caregivers interact with children—look for warmth, engagement, and responsiveness. Check for **cleanliness and safety**, including secure entrances, fenced outdoor play areas, and age-appropriate toys. Ask about their **curriculum and daily schedule**; high-quality programs will emphasize play-based learning and social-emotional development. Inquire about **staff qualifications and turnover**; low turnover indicates a positive work environment. Finally, trust your instincts on the overall atmosphere. Ask for references from current parents, and consider visiting during drop-off or pick-up to see routines in action. Don't hesitate to ask about their policies on sick children, communication with parents (many use apps like Brightwheel), and how they handle the diverse community that makes Lakewood unique.