The Best Daycare Centers in Latham, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Latham. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Latham
Kiddie Academy of Chillicothe
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Chillicothe provides comprehensive educational childcare with their proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and creative arts. The center features state-licensed teachers with early childhood education credentials, secure entry systems, and age-appropriate learning environments. Their program emphasizes social-emotional development through structured play and hands-on learning activities. The facility includes modern classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and nutritional meal programs. Serving the Latham area with before/after school transportation to local elementary schools.
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Little Buckeye Learning Center
Independent
Little Buckeye Learning Center offers a play-based educational approach combined with structured academic preparation. Their curriculum includes Ohio Early Learning Standards with focus on literacy, mathematics, and social skills development. The center features low student-teacher ratios, certified early childhood educators, and comprehensive safety protocols including secure access and daily health screenings. Facilities include dedicated infant rooms, preschool learning centers, and outdoor play areas. Parents praise the center's communication and individual attention to each child's developmental needs.
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Pumpkin Patch Daycare & Learning Center
Independent
Pumpkin Patch Daycare & Learning Center provides a nurturing environment with a balanced approach to early childhood education. Their curriculum combines structured learning with creative exploration, focusing on kindergarten readiness skills. The center features experienced staff with ongoing professional development, secure facilities with surveillance systems, and USDA-approved nutrition programs. Special programs include music enrichment, physical education, and seasonal activities. The center serves families throughout Ross County including Latham residents, with transportation available for school-age children.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Latham, OH
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Latham, Ohio, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Latham 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 nutrition policies. 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 type, status, any recent violations, and the results of compliance inspections. Always ask to see the current license when touring a facility in Latham.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Latham, OH?
Childcare costs in Latham are generally reflective of rural Ohio averages, which are typically lower than in major metropolitan areas like Columbus or Cleveland. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay approximately **$700 to $900 per month** for full-time infant care. Toddler care may range from **$650 to $850 per month**. Family childcare homes often offer slightly lower rates, potentially between **$600 and $800 per month**. These are estimates, and prices can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and hours of operation. It's important to ask what is included in the tuition (e.g., meals, diapers, enrichment programs). For financial assistance, Ohio offers the Publicly Funded Child Care program, and eligibility is based on family income and need.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Latham, and when should I start looking for a spot?
While Latham is a smaller community, popular and highly-rated daycare centers, especially those serving infants due to stricter staff-to-child ratios, can have limited capacity and waiting lists. It is highly advisable to **begin your search at least 6 to 9 months before you need care**, and if you are expecting a child, consider getting on a list during your second trimester. Some centers in the area may have shorter waits for preschool-aged children. When contacting providers, be sure to ask about their current waitlist length, the process for securing a spot (e.g., deposit), and how often they update families on their position.
What types of childcare options are most commonly available in a small town like Latham, Ohio?
Parents in Latham typically have access to several types of childcare. The most common options are: 1) **Licensed Childcare Centers**: These are formal facilities, which may be independent or part of a local church or organization. 2) **Licensed Family Childcare Homes**: These are in-home providers who care for a smaller group of children, often offering a more home-like setting. 3) **Preschool Programs**: Often part-day programs for children ages 3-5, which may be housed in community centers, churches, or public schools. Due to the rural nature of the area, options may be fewer than in a city, and some families also utilize **legal, unlicensed in-home care** (caring for 1-5 children from one other family). Exploring options in nearby towns like Chillicothe may also be necessary.
How do daycare programs in Latham handle school closures, inclement weather, and local events?
Daycare policies for closures in Latham are typically aligned with local school districts, such as the Huntington Local School District or other nearby districts, but you must confirm with each individual provider. Many centers will close if the local schools close for severe weather (e.g., snow emergencies). For professional development days or school holidays that are not federal holidays, most daycare centers remain open, which is a key benefit for working parents. Some smaller in-home providers may have more flexible or variable policies. Always ask for the annual calendar and the specific protocol for weather-related delays/closures during your tour. Additionally, some centers may close for local events like the Ross County Fair, so it's good to inquire about any planned closures unique to the area.