The Best Daycare Centers in Mingo, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Mingo. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Mingo
The Goddard School of Delaware
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Delaware offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their highly qualified teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and maintain low student-teacher ratios. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and modern classrooms with interactive technology. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, social-emotional development, and physical well-being, with daily updates provided to parents through their proprietary communication app.
Daycare Services:
Primrose School of Delaware
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Delaware provides Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. Their research-based curriculum includes character development, literacy, math, and science programs. The school maintains rigorous safety protocols including secured access, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. Facilities feature dedicated music and art rooms, age-appropriate outdoor learning environments, and nutritious meal programs. Parent partnerships are emphasized through regular communication and family engagement events.
Daycare Services:
Kids 'R' Kids Learning Academy of Delaware
Kids 'R' Kids International
Kids 'R' Kids Learning Academy offers the exclusive Brain Development Curriculum for infants through school-age children, focusing on cognitive, emotional, and physical development. Their state-licensed teachers receive ongoing training in early childhood education best practices. The facility features secure keypad entry, live streaming video access for parents, and sanitization protocols that exceed state requirements. Their STEAM-based learning approach incorporates technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics through hands-on activities. The academy provides transportation to local schools and offers flexible scheduling options for working families.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Mingo, OH
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Mingo, Ohio?
In Mingo and the surrounding rural areas of Ohio, full-time daycare costs are generally more affordable than in major metropolitan areas, but availability can be limited. For an infant (under 18 months), you can expect to pay approximately $130-$180 per week at a licensed in-home daycare or a smaller center. For a toddler, weekly rates typically range from $110-$150. These rates are influenced by factors such as the provider's experience, the program's curriculum, and included amenities like meals. It's important to note that due to the smaller number of providers, many do not offer part-time rates. Financial assistance is available through programs like Ohio's publicly funded childcare, which eligible families can apply for through the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.
How do I verify that a daycare provider in Mingo is properly licensed and what should I look for in their inspection reports?
All licensed childcare providers in Ohio are regulated by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). You can verify a provider's license and view their compliance history by using the online "Child Care Search" tool on the ODJFS website. When reviewing a provider in Mingo, pay close attention to the inspection reports (often called "evaluations"). Look for any serious violations, known as "non-compliance" items, particularly related to staff-to-child ratios, safe sleep practices for infants, background checks, and health and safety standards like CPR certification. In a smaller community like Mingo, you can also ask the provider directly to see their license and most recent inspection summary, which they are required to post.
Are there any licensed childcare centers in Mingo, or are most options in-home providers?
Mingo is a small, unincorporated community, so licensed childcare options are primarily family childcare homes (in-home providers). There are currently no large, standalone childcare centers within Mingo itself. Parents often look to licensed family childcare providers operating out of their homes, which can offer a smaller, more personalized setting. For center-based care, many families in the Mingo area commute to nearby towns like Delaware, Marysville, or Marion, which have more center options. When considering an in-home provider in Mingo, ensuring they are licensed by the state is crucial for your child's safety and for your potential eligibility for state childcare assistance.
What is the waitlist situation like for daycare in the Mingo area, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of providers serving Mingo and the surrounding rural communities, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant care. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search during pregnancy, ideally 6-9 months before their needed start date. For in-home providers with only a few slots, a waitlist of 3-12 months is not uncommon. When contacting providers, be sure to ask directly about their current waitlist length, any fees to be placed on the list, and how often they update families on their position. Being flexible with your start date can improve your chances of securing a spot.
What local resources or networks can help me find and evaluate childcare options in the Mingo, Ohio area?
A key local resource is the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for your region. For Delaware County (which includes the Mingo area), this service is provided by **Action for Children**. They maintain a database of licensed providers, can help with referrals based on your specific needs, and offer guidance on quality indicators and how to use state inspection reports. You can contact them online or by phone. Additionally, local Facebook community groups (e.g., "Mingo, Ohio Community" or "Delaware County Moms") are often used by parents to get personal recommendations and learn about openings in smaller, in-home daycares that may not advertise widely.
Childcare Insights for Mingo
Finding quality, affordable childcare is one of the most significant challenges for parents, and if you're in Mingo, Ohio, you know that a personal, local touch matters. The search for "affordable daycares near me" is about more than just cost; it's about finding a safe, nurturing, and reliable environment for your child right here in our community. While Mingo itself is a smaller village, parents have several good options to consider in the immediate area and the surrounding region of Lawrence County, blending the benefits of close-knit care with accessible pricing.
A great first step is to look beyond the general internet search and tap into the local network that makes our area special. Start by asking for recommendations from other parents at the Mingo Presbyterian Church community events or while at the Mingo Park. Personal referrals often lead to discovering in-home daycare providers, which can be a wonderfully affordable and flexible option, offering a family-like setting. These smaller providers are licensed through the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, and you can verify their status and any inspection reports online, giving you peace of mind. Additionally, consider the slightly broader radius that includes South Point, Chesapeake, and Ironton. Many families in Mingo find that the short commute to these neighboring towns opens up more possibilities, including church-affiliated preschools and larger daycare centers that may offer sliding scale fees based on income.
Understanding what "affordable" means in our specific context is key. In the Mingo area, affordability often ties directly to the type of program. Full-time care for infants will typically be the highest cost, while rates may decrease for toddlers and preschool-age children. Many local providers offer part-time or flexible schedules, which can be a significant cost-saver if your work hours allow it. It's also crucial to inquire about what is included in the weekly rate. Does it cover meals and snacks, or is that an additional cost? Are there any registration or annual supply fees? Getting a clear picture of the total cost will help you compare apples to apples.
Don't overlook the resources available to you. The Lawrence County Department of Job and Family Services is an invaluable asset for parents seeking financial assistance. They administer the state's publicly funded childcare program, which can help eligible families cover a substantial portion of daycare costs. Even if you're unsure about qualifying, it's worth making a call to explore your options. Finally, when you've narrowed down a list, schedule a visit. Trust your instincts as you observe the environment. Is it clean and safe? Do the children seem engaged and happy? How do the caregivers interact with them? In a community like ours, finding that right fit where you feel your child is known and valued is the ultimate definition of finding an affordable, quality daycare here in Mingo, Ohio.