The Best Daycare Centers in Mount Sterling, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Mount Sterling. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Mount Sterling
KinderCare Learning Center at London
KinderCare Education
This highly-rated KinderCare center serves the Mount Sterling area with comprehensive early childhood education programs. They implement a research-based curriculum focusing on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center features dedicated classrooms for each age group, secure entry systems, and outdoor play areas. Teachers maintain state-required qualifications with ongoing professional development. The center emphasizes individualized learning plans and maintains strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences. Their nutrition program provides balanced meals and snacks meeting USDA guidelines.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Grove City
Goddard Systems, Inc.
Serving families in the greater Columbus metro area including Mount Sterling, The Goddard School offers a premier early childhood education experience with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with play-based learning. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and modern classrooms equipped with SMART Board technology. All teachers hold degrees in education or related fields and receive continuous training. The program emphasizes STEAM learning, language development, and character education while maintaining low student-teacher ratios for personalized attention.
Daycare Services:
Bright Horizons at Polaris
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
This NAEYC-accredited center serves the broader central Ohio region including Mount Sterling commuters. Bright Horizons implements the World at Their Fingertips curriculum, which integrates emergent curriculum with structured learning across literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts. The center features secure keypad entry, comprehensive safety protocols, and natural outdoor learning environments. Teachers hold early childhood credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. The program emphasizes project-based learning, social-emotional development, and school readiness skills while maintaining excellent teacher-child ratios and providing detailed progress tracking for families.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Mount Sterling, OH
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Mount Sterling, Ohio?
In Mount Sterling and the surrounding Madison County area, costs can vary based on the type of care and the child's age. For a licensed daycare center, full-time care for an infant typically ranges from $180 to $230 per week. For toddlers and preschoolers, the cost is generally between $150 and $190 per week. In-home licensed family childcare providers often have slightly lower rates, ranging from $130 to $180 per week. It's important to note that these are estimates, and prices can be influenced by factors like the program's curriculum, staff-to-child ratios, and included amenities (meals, supplies). Compared to larger Ohio cities like Columbus, Mount Sterling tends to be more affordable, but availability can be limited, so it's wise to budget accordingly and inquire about any potential registration or supply fees.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Mount Sterling?
All childcare programs in Ohio, including those in Mount Sterling, must be licensed or certified by the Ohio 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. This public database allows you to search by provider name, city, or zip code (43143 for Mount Sterling). For each listed program, you can view its license type, capacity, age ranges served, and, crucially, its inspection reports. These reports detail any compliance issues, rule violations, and the steps taken to correct them. You can also contact the ODJFS Office of Families and Children directly for assistance. Always ask a provider for their license number and cross-reference it online.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with childcare costs for families in Mount Sterling?
Yes, eligible families in Mount Sterling can apply for assistance through Ohio's **Publicly Funded Child Care (PFCC)** program, administered by the Madison County Department of Job and Family Services (DJFS). This subsidy helps low-income working families, those in education/training programs, or families involved with child protective services pay for care at licensed or certified providers. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need for care. The Madison County DJFS office in London, OH, handles applications and determinations for Mount Sterling residents. Additionally, some local providers may offer private scholarships or sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly. The state also offers the "Step Up To Quality" (SUTQ) rating system; programs with higher star ratings may offer enhanced value for your investment.
What is the availability and waitlist situation like for infant care in Mount Sterling?
Infant care (children under 18 months) is often the most challenging to find in Mount Sterling due to stricter state-mandated staff-to-child ratios. There are a limited number of slots available across licensed centers and family childcare homes. It is very common for parents to encounter waitlists, especially for newborns. It is strongly recommended to begin your search during pregnancy, ideally in the second trimester. When contacting providers, ask specifically about their infant room capacity, current waitlist length, and any policies for securing a future spot (like a deposit). Exploring options in nearby communities like London, Washington Court House, or Grove City may be necessary if local waitlists are extensive.
What are some key questions to ask when touring a daycare or preschool in Mount Sterling?
Beyond general questions about curriculum and daily schedules, ask specific questions relevant to Ohio standards and the local community. Key questions include: 1) "What is your program's **Step Up To Quality (SUTQ) star rating**?" (Ohio's voluntary quality rating system). 2) "Can you explain your sick child policy and how you communicate about illnesses common in our area?" 3) "What are your staff qualifications and turnover rate?" (Low turnover is a good sign of a stable environment). 4) "How do you handle emergencies and what is your severe weather plan?" (Important for a rural community like Mount Sterling). 5) "What is your policy for outdoor play, and do you have a secure outdoor space?" 6) "Are meals and snacks provided, and if so, are they prepared on-site?" Getting clear answers to these will help you assess the quality and fit of the program for your family.