The Best Daycare Centers in MOL, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in MOL. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in MOL
Kiddie Academy of Mentor
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Mentor offers a comprehensive Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and social-emotional learning. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials, maintaining low student-to-teacher ratios. Facilities include secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds. Their approach emphasizes hands-on learning through play-based activities while incorporating technology and cultural awareness. The center provides nutritious meals and maintains strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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The Goddard School of Mentor
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Mentor implements the F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social development. Their degreed teachers create individualized learning plans and maintain portfolios tracking each child's progress. The facility features secure keypad entry, multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups, and bright, well-equipped classrooms. The curriculum includes Spanish, sign language, yoga, and music enrichment programs. Parents receive regular updates through the Goddard mobile app and benefit from flexible scheduling options.
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Primrose School of Mentor
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Mentor follows the Balanced Learning® approach, combining teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a focus on character development and academics. Their curriculum includes literacy, math, science, social studies, and creative arts, delivered by educated teachers who receive ongoing professional development. The center features secure environments with surveillance systems, commercial-grade air purification, and age-specific learning spaces. Their exclusive Harmony & Heart® music program and gardening activities enhance the learning experience. The school maintains strong safety protocols and offers healthy, chef-prepared meals.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in MOL, OH
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in MOL, Ohio?
In MOL, Ohio, daycare costs are generally in line with state averages but can vary based on the type of center and specific services offered. For a full-time infant (under 18 months), you can expect to pay between $800 to $1,100 per month at a licensed center. For toddlers (18 months to 3 years), costs typically range from $700 to $950 per month. In-home licensed family childcare homes may offer slightly lower rates, often between $600 to $850 monthly. It's important to note that these are base rates; additional fees for registration, supplies, or early/late pickup are common. Compared to larger Ohio cities like Columbus, MOL may have slightly more affordable options, but securing a spot often involves joining a waitlist, especially for infant care.
How do I verify that a daycare in MOL is properly licensed and has a good compliance record with Ohio state regulations?
All childcare programs in Ohio must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). To verify a provider in MOL, you can use the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool online. This public database allows you to search by provider name, location, or type and view their current license status, capacity, and age ranges served. Crucially, you can also access their **inspection reports**, which detail any compliance issues, citations, or corrective actions. We recommend reviewing the last 2-3 years of reports to identify patterns. You can also contact the ODJFS Office for the Southwest Region, which oversees MOL, for additional information. Always visit the facility in person to observe the environment and ask the director about their latest inspection.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in MOL, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Yes, waitlists are a common reality for many daycare centers in MOL, particularly for infant rooms which have strict staff-to-child ratios. For popular centers, waitlists can be 6 to 12 months long. It is strongly advised to begin your search and tour facilities **during your pregnancy**, ideally by the second trimester. For toddler or preschool openings, starting your search 4-6 months in advance is recommended. When contacting centers, ask specific questions: their current waitlist length, if there's a fee to be on the list, how often they update families, and if they offer priority to siblings of current enrollees. Exploring a mix of centers and licensed family childcare homes can increase your chances of finding an available spot sooner.
What local resources or referral services are available in MOL to help parents find and choose childcare?
Parents in MOL have a key local resource: **4C for Children**, the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency serving Southwest Ohio, including Montgomery County. You can contact them via their website or helpline for free, personalized referrals to licensed providers that match your needs for location, hours, and child's age. They also offer guidance on what to look for during a visit and understanding quality indicators. Additionally, the **Montgomery County Job and Family Services** department can provide information on state childcare assistance programs for income-eligible families. Local parenting groups on social media platforms are also valuable for getting firsthand recommendations and experiences from other MOL parents.
What are the key differences between a daycare center and a licensed family childcare home in MOL, and how do I decide which is right for my family?
The two main licensed options in MOL offer distinct environments. **Daycare Centers** (like those in commercial buildings) typically have multiple classrooms, more children, a structured curriculum, and multiple staff. They may offer more amenities and have stricter hours (e.g., 6:30 AM - 6:00 PM). **Licensed Family Childcare Homes** operate out of the provider's residence, caring for a smaller, mixed-age group of children (up to 6 children, or 12 with an assistant) in a home-like setting. This can offer more flexibility and a family atmosphere. Considerations for your choice include: your child's temperament (does they thrive in larger groups or prefer a quieter setting?), your work schedule (family homes may offer more flexible or extended hours), and your preference for a single caregiver versus a team. Always ensure any option you consider is ODJFS-licensed.