The Best Daycare Centers in London, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in London. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in London
Kiddie Academy of London
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of London offers a comprehensive Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, STEM education, and literacy. The center features state-certified teachers with early childhood education degrees, secure keypad entry systems, and real-time parent communication through mobile apps. Their facility includes age-appropriate learning centers, outdoor playgrounds with safety surfaces, and nutritious meal programs. The academy maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and provides regular developmental assessments to track each child's progress.
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The Goddard School of London
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in London provides a play-based learning approach through their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program, emphasizing social, emotional, and academic development. The center features degreed early childhood educators, secure facility protocols with surveillance systems, and daily progress reports for parents. Their curriculum includes foreign language exposure, yoga, and music enrichment. The school maintains NAEYC-accredited standards with bright, modern classrooms and age-specific learning environments designed to foster creativity and critical thinking skills.
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Springfield Christian Preschool & Childcare
Springfield Christian Church
Located just 15 minutes from London, Springfield Christian Preschool & Childcare offers a faith-based curriculum combined with academic excellence. The center features experienced teachers with Ohio teaching certifications, secure check-in/check-out procedures, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their program includes hands-on learning activities, character education, and age-appropriate biblical integration. The facility offers spacious classrooms, modern playground equipment, and nutritious meal services. The center is known for its strong community reputation and family-oriented approach to early childhood education.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in London, OH
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in London, Ohio, and how can I verify a facility's compliance?
In London, Ohio, all childcare centers and family childcare homes must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). Key requirements include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:7 for toddlers), background checks for all employees, health and safety training, and regular facility inspections. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool on the ODJFS website. This public database shows the license type, any recent inspection reports, and whether the provider has any serious violations. It's a crucial first step for any parent in the London area to ensure a facility meets state-mandated safety standards.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in London, OH?
In London and the surrounding Madison County area, the cost of full-time daycare can vary significantly based on the type of care. For a licensed childcare center, parents can expect to pay an average of **$800 to $1,100 per month** for infant care. Toddler care typically ranges from **$700 to $950 per month**. In-home family childcare providers often charge slightly less, averaging $650-$900 monthly. These costs are generally lower than in major Ohio cities like Columbus but have been rising. It's important to ask what is included in the tuition (meals, diapers, curriculum) and to inquire about any available financial assistance, such as Ohio's publicly funded childcare program, which many London providers accept.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in London, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common for infant and toddler spots at highly-regarded daycare centers in London, especially given the limited number of facilities in a smaller city. For infant care, it is strongly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists **6 to 12 months before** your needed start date. For toddler and preschool-aged children, 3 to 6 months of lead time is advisable. When contacting centers, ask specific questions: your exact position on the list, if there's a fee to join, how often they update families, and if they offer part-time spots that might become available sooner. Exploring nearby in-home providers in London's residential neighborhoods can also provide more immediate options.
What types of childcare assistance or subsidy programs are available to families in London, Ohio?
The primary program is Ohio's **Publicly Funded Child Care (PFCC)**, administered by the Madison County Department of Job and Family Services. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and reason for care (employment, education, etc.). Many licensed daycare centers and homes in London participate in this program. Additionally, some local employers may offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). For military families, there may be access to fee assistance programs. The first step is to contact the **Madison County JFS office** in London to apply and determine your family's eligibility and co-pay amount. They can also provide a list of local providers who accept the subsidy.
Beyond basic care, what educational or enrichment programs should I look for in a London daycare or preschool?
Many London childcare providers incorporate structured early learning curricula. Look for programs that align with Ohio's **Early Learning and Development Standards**, which focus on language, literacy, math, social-emotional skills, and physical well-being. Specific enrichment to ask about includes: outdoor play in secure, natural settings (valuable in a community like London), literacy programs with local library partnerships, age-appropriate STEM activities, and social skills development. Some centers may offer extras like introductory Spanish, music, or movement classes. Visiting the facility will let you see if the learning environment is engaging and if the staff interact with children in a way that promotes curiosity and growth, which is key for school readiness in the London City School District.