The Best Daycare Centers in Middleport, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Middleport. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Middleport
Little Blessings Child Care & Learning Center
Little Blessings Child Care
Little Blessings is a highly-regarded Christian-based childcare center serving the Middleport area with a comprehensive educational program. They feature a structured curriculum that includes literacy development, math readiness, science exploration, and social-emotional learning. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios with qualified staff holding early childhood education credentials. Facilities include secure indoor learning environments and safe outdoor play areas. Parents consistently praise the nurturing atmosphere, strong communication, and the center's focus on developmental milestones. The program includes nutritious meals and snacks, and they offer flexible scheduling to accommodate working families.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie College Early Learning Center
Kiddie College
Kiddie College provides a research-based early childhood education program serving families throughout the Middleport region. Their curriculum emphasizes school readiness through play-based learning, structured academic activities, and social development. The center features state-licensed teachers with specialized training in early childhood development. Safety is prioritized with secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, dedicated nap areas, and modern playground equipment. Parents highlight the center's excellent communication, experienced staff, and the visible progress children make in their developmental journey.
Daycare Services:
ABC Daycare & Learning Center
ABC Daycare
ABC Daycare & Learning Center has served the Middleport and Gallipolis communities for nearly two decades with a focus on whole-child development. Their educational approach balances academic preparation with social skills development through hands-on learning activities and creative play. The center employs experienced early childhood educators who create individualized learning plans for each child. Facilities include modern classrooms, a large outdoor play space, and dedicated areas for art, music, and movement. The center is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, consistent staff retention, and comprehensive program that includes meal service and extended hours for working parents.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Middleport, OH
What types of licensed childcare options are available in Middleport, Ohio?
In Middleport, Ohio, parents can find several types of licensed childcare options, primarily due to the city's smaller size. The most common are licensed family childcare homes, which are operated in a provider's residence and typically serve a smaller group of children, offering a more home-like environment. There are also licensed childcare centers, which may be part of larger organizations or churches in the area. Given Middleport's rural setting within Meigs County, options are more limited compared to larger cities, so many families also consider providers in nearby towns like Pomeroy or Gallipolis. All providers must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS), which ensures they meet state standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, and child-to-staff ratios.
How much does full-time daycare typically cost in Middleport, and are there financial assistance programs?
In Middleport and the surrounding Meigs County area, full-time daycare costs are generally lower than state averages but vary by provider type. As of recent data, a licensed family childcare home may charge between $120-$160 per week for an infant or toddler, while a center-based program might range from $140-$180 per week. For preschool-age children, costs are often slightly lower. It's important to get specific quotes, as rates can change. Financial assistance is available through the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services via the publicly funded childcare program. Eligibility is based on income, work, or school requirements. Parents can apply through the Meigs County Department of Job and Family Services office to see if they qualify for help covering these costs.
Are there long waitlists for daycare in Middleport, and how far in advance should I apply?
Due to the limited number of providers in Middleport, waitlists are common, especially for infant care, which has the strictest staff-to-child ratios. It is not unusual for popular licensed homes or the few center-based options to have waitlists of several months. We strongly recommend that expecting parents or families planning a return to work begin researching and contacting providers as early as possible—ideally during the second trimester of pregnancy or at least 4-6 months before care is needed. When you contact a provider, ask directly about their current waitlist length, any fees to join the list, and how often they update families on their status. Also, consider expanding your search to include providers in adjacent communities.
What are the state licensing requirements I should verify for a daycare provider in Middleport?
Every childcare provider in Middleport must be licensed by the State of Ohio. Key requirements you should verify include: 1) **Current License:** Ask to see their official ODJFS license, which should be posted and indicate they are in "full compliance." 2) **Background Checks:** All staff and adults in the home must have passed comprehensive background checks. 3) **Training:** Staff must have training in first aid, CPR, child abuse prevention, and communicable disease recognition. 4) **Ratios and Group Sizes:** For example, for infants (under 12 months), the ratio is 1 staff member to 4 children. 5) **Health and Safety Inspections:** The facility undergoes regular fire, health, and safety inspections. You can also check a provider's compliance history and any past violations online through the Ohio Child Care Search website.
Besides traditional daycare, are there any part-time or preschool programs for 3-5 year olds in Middleport?
Yes, there are options for preschool-aged children in Middleport. The local school district, Meigs Local School District, typically offers a public preschool program for eligible 3- to 5-year-olds, which may include children with special needs and a number of typically developing peers. This is often a part-day program during the school year. Additionally, some local churches and the few childcare centers may offer preschool curricula as part of their daycare services or as standalone morning or afternoon sessions. These programs focus on school readiness skills. Availability can be limited, so contacting the Meigs Local School District's board office and local churches directly in the spring before the fall semester is advised to learn about enrollment procedures and eligibility.