The Best Daycare Centers in Middlefield, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Middlefield. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Middlefield
Kiddie Academy of Chardon
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Chardon offers a comprehensive Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and social-emotional learning. The center features highly qualified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development, secure keypad entry systems, and modern classroom environments. Their program includes age-appropriate technology integration, nutritious meal programs, and extensive outdoor play areas. The academy maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios and provides real-time updates to parents through their proprietary communication app, making it a top choice for families in the Middlefield area seeking high-quality educational childcare.
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Primrose School of Concord
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Concord provides the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach, blending teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a strong focus on character development and academics. The school features state-certified teachers, secure campus with surveillance systems, and purpose-built classrooms designed for optimal learning. Their curriculum includes Spanish language exposure, music and arts programs, and hands-on science activities. The facility boasts extensive outdoor learning environments, on-site chef-prepared nutritious meals, and comprehensive safety protocols. Parents consistently praise the school's communication, experienced staff, and the noticeable developmental progress in children.
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The Goddard School of Chagrin Falls
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Chagrin Falls implements the F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program, emphasizing play-based learning with structured academic preparation. The school features degreed teachers in early childhood education, secure facilities with multiple safety checkpoints, and innovative classroom technology. Their comprehensive program includes yoga instruction, foreign language exposure, and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) activities. The center offers spacious indoor and outdoor play areas, regular developmental assessments, and flexible scheduling options. Known for their low teacher turnover and strong parent partnerships, this school serves as a reliable childcare option for Middlefield families seeking academic rigor in a nurturing environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Middlefield, OH
What are the typical costs for daycare or preschool in Middlefield, Ohio, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Middlefield, Ohio, daycare costs can vary based on the child's age and the type of program. For infants, full-time care typically ranges from $180 to $240 per week, while toddler care is often between $160 and $220 per week. Preschool programs for 3-5 year olds generally cost $140 to $200 per week. These rates are often lower than those in larger Ohio metropolitan areas like Cleveland. For financial assistance, Geauga County (where Middlefield is located) offers the Publicly Funded Child Care (PFCC) program through the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work or school requirements. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees. It's recommended to contact the Geauga County Department of Job and Family Services directly to apply for aid.
How can I verify if a daycare or in-home provider in Middlefield is properly licensed and what are Ohio's key regulations for childcare?
All childcare centers and licensed Type A in-home providers in Ohio must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). To verify a provider's license and inspection history, you can use the online "Child Care Search" tool on the ODJFS website. Key Ohio regulations include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:7 for toddlers, 1:12 for preschoolers), required background checks for all employees, and annual health and safety inspections. In Middlefield specifically, you can also contact the Geauga County Department of Job and Family Services for local resources and to confirm a provider's standing. Be aware that some smaller, in-home "Type B" providers (caring for 1-6 children from one other family) are not required to be licensed but must be certified, which involves a background check and basic safety training. Always ask to see a provider's current license or certificate.
What types of childcare options are most commonly available in Middlefield, and are there long waitlists?
Middlefield, being a smaller village in Geauga County, offers a mix of childcare options. These include licensed childcare centers (often attached to churches or community organizations), licensed family childcare homes (Type A), and certified in-home providers (Type B). Due to the rural nature of the area, there are fewer large centers compared to suburban cities, making family childcare homes a popular and accessible choice. Waitlists can be a challenge, especially for infant care spots, which are limited by strict staff-to-child ratios. It is common for popular providers to have waitlists of 3 to 9 months. We strongly recommend starting your search during pregnancy or at least 6 months before you need care. Networking with other local parents through community groups or the Middlefield Village Facebook page can provide leads on lesser-known providers or upcoming openings.
Are there any daycare centers or preschools in Middlefield that offer unique programs, such as nature-based learning or programs aligned with the local Amish/Mennonite community's values?
Yes, Middlefield's unique cultural landscape influences its childcare offerings. Given its location in the heart of Ohio's Amish country, some family childcare providers and smaller centers may incorporate values of simplicity, community, and hands-on work into their daily routines. While not explicitly "Amish," these programs often emphasize outdoor play, practical life skills, and a calm environment. For nature-based learning, options within a reasonable driving distance may be more available in neighboring Chardon or Burton, but some Middlefield providers with large outdoor spaces offer robust outdoor play. It's important to visit and ask specific questions about daily schedules, discipline philosophies, and how they incorporate the local environment. The Geauga County Public Library's Middlefield branch also often has information on local preschool and early learning programs.
What resources are available in Middlefield or Geauga County to help me evaluate and choose a quality childcare provider?
Several local resources can assist parents in Middlefield. First, the "Step Up To Quality" (SUTQ) rating system is Ohio's voluntary quality rating system for licensed programs. You can search for SUTQ-rated providers (ranging from 1 to 5 stars) on the ODJFS website; a higher rating indicates meeting additional standards for learning, development, and professional training. Second, the Geauga County Department of Job and Family Services can provide referrals and information. Third, the "Help Me Grow" program of Geauga County offers early childhood development support and can be a resource for finding appropriate care. Finally, local word-of-mouth is invaluable. Consider asking for recommendations in community spaces like the Middlefield Dairy Queen, the post office, or the local Bi-Rite supermarket, and join the "Middlefield, Ohio Community" Facebook group to connect with other parents for firsthand experiences and advice.