The Best Daycare Centers in Monroe, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Monroe. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Monroe
Primrose School of Liberty Township
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Liberty Township is a nationally accredited early education center serving the Monroe area with a balanced learning approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance. Their exclusive Balanced Learning curriculum focuses on character development, literacy, math, science, and social skills. Features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials, secure entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. The school offers nutritious meals and snacks, age-appropriate outdoor playgrounds, and regular parent communication through an interactive mobile app. Known for their strong emphasis on building character traits and social-emotional development.
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The Goddard School of Monroe
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Monroe provides a play-based learning environment with F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that encourages children to develop confidence and lifelong learning skills. Features state-licensed teachers with ongoing professional development, low student-teacher ratios, and secure facility with keypad entry. Curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and social development activities. Offers modern classrooms with interactive technology, outdoor play areas with safety surfaces, and comprehensive health and safety protocols including regular sanitation. Parents appreciate the daily updates and photos through the proprietary mobile app.
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Bright Horizons at Cincinnati - Mason
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Mason serves the Monroe community with their World at Their Fingers curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning and developmental milestones. Features NAEYC-accredited programs with degreed early childhood educators and comprehensive staff training. The center includes age-appropriate learning environments, secure facilities with electronic entry systems, and nutritious meal programs. Their emergent curriculum follows children's interests while building foundational skills in literacy, math, and science. Known for strong parent partnerships, regular developmental assessments, and flexible scheduling options including back-up care for working families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Monroe, OH
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Monroe, Ohio?
In Monroe, Ohio, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For infants (under 18 months), you can expect to pay between $220 and $280 per week at a licensed childcare center. For toddlers (18 months to 3 years), weekly rates typically range from $200 to $250. In-home daycare providers may offer slightly lower rates, often between $160 and $220 per week. These costs are generally in line with the Butler County average. It's important to note that many facilities in Monroe have all-inclusive pricing, but some may charge extra for supplies, meals, or early/late pick-up. We recommend contacting providers directly for their most current fee schedules and inquiring about any available discounts for siblings or prepayment.
How can I verify if a daycare or preschool in Monroe is properly licensed and check its compliance history?
All childcare programs in Monroe must be licensed by the State of Ohio through the Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). The most reliable way to verify a provider's status and history is to use the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool available on the ODJFS website. You can search by the provider's name, location (Monroe, OH 45050), or type of care. This public database will show the license status (e.g., Licensed, Licensed - Step Up To Quality Star Rated), capacity, age ranges served, and any serious compliance violations or inspection reports from the last three years. You can also call the Butler County ODJFS office for assistance. Always visit a potential daycare in person and ask to see their current license certificate, which should be posted.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Monroe, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, many reputable daycare centers and in-home providers in Monroe do maintain waitlists. It is strongly advised to begin your search **at least 6 to 9 months** before your needed start date, and if you are expecting a child, to get on lists during your second trimester. Popular centers affiliated with local employers or with high Step Up To Quality star ratings often have the longest waits. When contacting providers, ask specifically about their waitlist process: if there's a fee to join, how often they update parents on position, and estimated timelines. Exploring multiple options, including licensed family childcare homes in Monroe's residential neighborhoods, can increase your chances of securing a spot sooner.
What is Ohio's "Step Up To Quality" (SUTQ) rating system, and which programs in Monroe participate?
Step Up To Quality (SUTQ) is Ohio's voluntary quality rating and improvement system for licensed childcare and preschool programs. Providers earn a rating from 1 to 5 stars based on staff qualifications, learning environments, curriculum, and family engagement. A higher star rating indicates a higher quality program. Several centers in Monroe participate in SUTQ. You can filter for rated programs using the Ohio Child Care Search tool. Choosing a SUTQ-rated program can be beneficial, as they often have more structured educational components and trained staff. Additionally, families may be eligible for publicly funded childcare assistance through programs like the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, which often requires attending a SUTQ-rated provider.
What are some local resources in Monroe or Butler County to help parents find and pay for childcare?
Parents in Monroe have several key local resources: 1. **Butler County Department of Job and Family Services (BCDJFS):** This is your primary point of contact for applying for publicly funded childcare assistance based on income eligibility. They can also provide referrals to licensed providers. 2. **4C for Children (Southwest Ohio Region):** This is a Child Care Resource and Referral (CCRR) agency. Their specialists can provide free, personalized referrals to licensed childcare options in Monroe and surrounding areas that match your specific needs. 3. **The Monroe Local School District:** For preschool-aged children, inquire about the district's own preschool program, which may have income-based tuition or special education services. 4. **Local Churches and Community Centers:** Some, like the Monroe United Methodist Church, may host licensed preschools or Mother's Day Out programs that offer part-time care options. Starting your search with these organizations can help navigate both availability and financial support options.