The Best Daycare Centers in Minford, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Minford. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Minford
God's Little Blessings Christian Daycare & Learning Center
Independent
God's Little Blessings is a highly-rated Christian daycare center located just 10 minutes from Minford. They offer a comprehensive educational program that integrates faith-based learning with Ohio's Early Learning and Development Standards. The center features certified early childhood educators, low teacher-to-child ratios, and a security-coded entry system. Their curriculum includes hands-on learning activities, literacy development, and character education. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, and modern learning materials. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, experienced staff, and strong communication.
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Kiddie College of Portsmouth
Independent
Located approximately 15 minutes from Minford, Kiddie College of Portsmouth has served Southern Ohio families for nearly two decades. The center employs state-certified teachers and follows a structured curriculum that emphasizes early literacy, math readiness, and social development. Their facility includes secure classrooms, outdoor play areas with safety surfacing, and a commercial kitchen providing nutritious meals. The center maintains excellent state compliance records and offers flexible scheduling options. Special programs include music enrichment, STEM activities, and parent-teacher conferences to track developmental progress.
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Tiny Treasures Learning Center
Independent
Tiny Treasures Learning Center serves the Minford area with a play-based learning approach that balances academic preparation and social-emotional development. The center features degreed lead teachers in each classroom and maintains small group sizes for individualized attention. Their curriculum includes daily literacy activities, creative arts, and hands-on science exploration. The facility includes secure entry systems, camera monitoring, and age-specific learning environments. Parents appreciate the center's transparent communication through daily reports and regular parent engagement events. The center also offers enrichment programs including Spanish exposure and movement activities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Minford, OH
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available for families in Minford, Ohio?
In Minford, Ohio, parents primarily have access to two types of licensed childcare: licensed family childcare homes and licensed childcare centers. Family childcare homes are typically run by a provider in their own residence, offering a smaller, home-like setting, often with mixed-age groups. Childcare centers are larger facilities, which may be independent or part of a local church or organization, offering structured programs in dedicated buildings. Due to Minford's rural nature within Scioto County, family childcare homes are a common and valued option. All licensed providers are regulated by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS), which sets standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, and child-to-staff ratios. You can search for licensed providers in the Minford area through the ODJFS online provider search tool.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Minford, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Minford and the surrounding Scioto County area, full-time daycare costs are generally lower than in major Ohio cities but can vary significantly. For an infant, you can expect to pay approximately $130-$180 per week at a licensed family childcare home and $150-$220 per week at a childcare center. For toddlers, weekly rates typically range from $120-$160. These are estimates, and rates depend on the provider's amenities, hours, and included services (like meals). For financial assistance, Ohio's publicly funded childcare program is administered through the Scioto County Department of Job and Family Services. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work or education requirements. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees, so it's important to inquire directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Minford, and when should I start looking for care?
Waitlist times in Minford can vary. For highly sought-after providers, especially those offering infant care, waitlists of 3 to 9 months are not uncommon. Many popular family childcare homes also maintain short waitlists due to their limited capacity. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search and contact providers as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 6 months before their needed start date. When you contact a provider, ask specifically about their current waitlist policy, any fees to join the list, and how often they update families on their position. Being flexible with your start date can sometimes help secure a spot sooner.
What are the key state of Ohio licensing requirements I should verify when touring a daycare in Minford?
When evaluating a daycare in Minford, you should confirm they are licensed by the State of Ohio (ODJFS) and ask to see their current license. Key requirements to inquire about include: **Staff-to-Child Ratios** (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:7 for toddlers), **Background Checks** (all staff must have completed comprehensive FBI and BCI checks), **Health and Safety Training** (staff must be trained in CPR, first aid, child abuse prevention, and communicable diseases), and **Annual Inspections** (the facility should have passed recent fire, health, and safety inspections). You can also ask to view the provider's most recent compliance inspection report, which notes any violations. A reputable provider will be transparent about these standards.
Are there part-time, drop-in, or evening/weekend childcare options available in Minford for parents with non-traditional work schedules?
Finding part-time or non-traditional hour care in Minford can be challenging but not impossible. Most licensed family childcare homes and centers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM schedule. Part-time spots (e.g., 2-3 days a week) are limited and often fill quickly. Dedicated drop-in or evening/weekend care is very rare in Minford itself. Parents with shift work or irregular hours often need to explore a few alternatives: 1) Negotiate a custom schedule with a local family childcare provider who may have flexibility. 2) Look for providers in nearby Portsmouth who may offer extended hours. 3) Consider forming a shared nanny arrangement with another local family. 4) Utilize trusted in-home babysitters for occasional needs. It requires early planning and networking within the local community.