The Best Daycare Centers in Lewis Center, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lewis Center. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lewis Center
The Goddard School of Lewis Center
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Lewis Center offers a play-based learning approach with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Features state-certified teachers with early childhood education degrees, low student-to-teacher ratios, and secure facilities with keypad entry. Curriculum includes STEAM learning, sign language for infants, and character development programs. Modern classrooms with interactive technology, outdoor playgrounds with age-appropriate equipment, and nutritional meal programs. Highly regarded for its comprehensive safety protocols and strong parent communication through daily reports and mobile app updates.
Daycare Services:
Primrose School of Polaris
Primrose School Franchising Company
Located just minutes from Lewis Center in the Polaris area, Primrose School offers the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach combining purposeful play with nurturing guidance. Features accredited early childhood educators, structured curriculum focusing on literacy, math, science, and creative arts. Secure facility with surveillance systems, strict health and safety protocols including thorough cleaning procedures. Offers exclusive Harmony & Heart® music program and character development curriculum. Parents praise the consistent communication, experienced staff, and well-maintained facilities with both indoor and outdoor learning environments designed for different age groups.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Academy of Powell
Kiddie Academy International
Kiddie Academy of Powell serves the Lewis Center community with its Life Essentials® curriculum that promotes social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development. Features highly qualified teachers with ongoing professional development, secure facilities with electronic entry systems, and comprehensive health and safety standards. Curriculum includes character education, technology integration, and hands-on learning activities. Offers nutritious meals prepared on-site, age-appropriate playgrounds, and flexible scheduling options. Particularly noted for its strong emphasis on school readiness and excellent parent-teacher communication through regular progress reports and family engagement events.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lewis Center, OH
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Lewis Center, Ohio?
In Lewis Center, Ohio, childcare costs are generally aligned with the higher-than-state-average income levels in the area, reflecting the quality and demand. For an infant (under 18 months), you can expect to pay between $1,200 to $1,600 per month for full-time care at a licensed center. For toddlers (18 months to 3 years), costs typically range from $1,100 to $1,400 monthly. Preschool programs (ages 3-5) often range from $900 to $1,200 per month. These rates are for standard operating hours (approx. 6:30 AM - 6:00 PM). Home-based daycare providers in the area may offer slightly lower rates, often between $800 - $1,200 for infants. It's important to note that many centers in the highly-rated Olentangy Local School District area have waitlists, which can influence availability and sometimes cost.
How do I verify a daycare is properly licensed and what should I look for in an Ohio state inspection report?
All childcare providers in Lewis Center must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). You can verify a provider's license and view their latest inspection reports for free on the **Ohio Child Care Search** website. When reviewing a report, look beyond the compliance status. Pay close attention to any "non-compliance" rules, especially those related to health and safety (Rule 5101:2-12-13), such as staff-to-child ratios, safe sleep practices for infants, background checks, and medication administration. In Lewis Center, many providers have high compliance, but reviewing reports helps you ask informed questions. Also, check if the provider participates in Ohio's **Step Up To Quality (SUTQ)** rating system—a voluntary program where a 1- to 5-star rating indicates higher quality standards.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Lewis Center, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, due to high demand from families in the growing Lewis Center and surrounding Olentangy communities, waitlists for infant and toddler rooms at highly-regarded centers are common and can be substantial. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists **at least 6 to 12 months before your needed start date**, especially for infant care. Some popular centers may have waitlists exceeding a year. When contacting centers, ask specific questions: their current waitlist length, if there's a fee to be on the list, how often they update families, and if they offer priority to siblings of current students. Exploring a mix of corporate centers, church-affiliated preschools, and licensed family childcare homes can broaden your options.
What are some of the key differences between the larger daycare chains and local independent centers in Lewis Center?
Lewis Center offers both national/regional chains (like The Goddard School, Primrose School, Kiddie Academy) and independent local centers. Chains often provide a standardized, branded curriculum, extensive facilities, and corporate resources, which can mean consistency but sometimes less flexibility. Local independent centers or church-based programs (common in the area) may offer a more community-focused environment, potentially lower child-to-staff ratios, and a curriculum tailored to local values, such as a strong emphasis on kindergarten readiness for the Olentangy schools. Independents may also have more flexibility with schedules. Both types must meet Ohio's licensing standards, but the culture, cost, and enrollment process can differ significantly. Visiting both types is the best way to feel the difference.
Besides daycare centers, what other licensed childcare options are available for parents in Lewis Center?
Parents in Lewis Center have several licensed options beyond traditional centers. **Licensed Family Child Care Homes** are a popular alternative, where care is provided in a provider's home for a smaller group of children, often offering a more intimate, family-like setting and potentially more flexible hours. **In-Home Care (Nanny or Au Pair)** is also prevalent, especially for families with multiple children or non-standard work hours; note that if you hire a nanny directly, you become a household employer with specific tax responsibilities. Additionally, many **part-day preschool programs** operate out of community centers or churches, which can be a cost-effective option for parents who don't need full-day care. The **Action for Children** referral service is a great resource to explore all these options specific to Delaware County.