The Best Daycare Centers in Leavittsburg, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Leavittsburg. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Leavittsburg
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Youngstown offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, and arts while promoting social-emotional growth. Features state-licensed teachers with early childhood education degrees, secure keypad entry systems, live streaming for parent viewing, and age-appropriate playgrounds. The facility maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and provides nutritious meals and snacks. Known for their structured daily routine that includes both structured learning and creative free play.
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Kiddie Academy of Howland
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Howland provides comprehensive educational childcare through their Life Essentials® curriculum that integrates character development with academic readiness. The program emphasizes STEM learning, literacy development, and social skills through hands-on activities. Features certified teachers with ongoing professional development, secure facility with electronic check-in systems, age-specific learning centers, and outdoor playgrounds. Their health and safety protocols include rigorous cleaning procedures, health screenings, and emergency preparedness training. Parents appreciate the consistent communication through daily reports and the center's commitment to creating a nurturing, educational environment.
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Rainbow Connection Child Care & Preschool
Independent
Rainbow Connection Child Care & Preschool offers a family-owned childcare experience with a comprehensive educational program that balances structured learning with creative exploration. Their curriculum includes phonics-based reading readiness, early math concepts, science discovery, and social studies. Features experienced early childhood educators, secure facility with surveillance systems, large indoor play areas, and fenced outdoor playgrounds. The center provides homemade nutritious meals and maintains small class sizes for individualized attention. Known for their warm, family-like atmosphere and strong emphasis on building foundational skills while fostering each child's unique development and social confidence.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Leavittsburg, OH
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Leavittsburg, Ohio, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Leavittsburg, as in all of Ohio, daycare centers and family childcare homes must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). Licensed providers must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training in first aid, CPR, and child development), safe environments, and health and safety practices. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool on the ODJFS website. This public database allows you to search by provider name, location (including Trumbull County), and view their license type, any inspection reports, and compliance history. It's a crucial first step for any parent in the Leavittsburg area.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Leavittsburg, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In the Leavittsburg and greater Warren/Trumbull County area, average costs for full-time, center-based infant care typically range from **$800 to $1,100 per month**. Toddler care is slightly less, often between **$700 and $950 per month**. Family childcare homes may offer lower rates. Financial assistance is available through the **Ohio Department of Job and Family Services' Publicly Funded Child Care program**. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work or education requirements. You can apply through the Trumbull County Department of Job and Family Services. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
Are there many daycare options with immediate openings in Leavittsburg, or should I expect to join a waitlist?
Due to high demand and limited provider capacity in smaller communities like Leavittsburg, it is very common to encounter waitlists, especially for infant care. It is highly recommended to begin your search **at least 3-6 months** before you need care. While some family childcare homes or smaller centers may have occasional immediate openings, the more popular and highly-rated centers in the area often have waitlists that can be several months long. Expanding your search to nearby communities like Warren, Cortland, or Champion may provide more options, but be prepared for potential commute considerations.
What are some of the key factors to consider when touring a daycare center in Leavittsburg, given the local community and environment?
When touring a center in Leavittsburg, beyond standard checks for cleanliness and safety, consider these local factors: **Outdoor Play Space** – Given the suburban/rural setting, assess if the playground is secure, age-appropriate, and well-maintained. **Emergency Preparedness** – Inquire about their plan for severe weather common to Northeast Ohio and their communication protocol with parents. **Staff Longevity** – Low staff turnover is a sign of a positive work environment and provides consistency for your child; ask about average tenure. **Local Field Trips & Community Connections** – Some centers may incorporate visits to the Warren Community Amphitheatre, local libraries, or parks, which can enrich your child's experience. Finally, observe the general vibe—does it feel like a warm, community-oriented place?
How does Ohio's "Step Up To Quality" (SUTQ) rating system work, and are there highly-rated programs near Leavittsburg?
Ohio's **Step Up To Quality (SUTQ)** is a voluntary 5-star rating system that recognizes early care and education programs that exceed state licensing standards. Programs are rated on staff qualifications, professional development, learning environments, family engagement, and administrative practices. A higher star rating (3, 4, or 5 stars) indicates a stronger commitment to quality education. You can filter for SUTQ-rated programs using the Ohio Child Care Search tool. While Leavittsburg itself has a limited number of centers, several highly-rated (4- and 5-star) programs exist in neighboring Warren and Cortland. Choosing a SUTQ-rated program can be a strong indicator of quality, though it's still essential to visit and ensure it's the right fit for your family.