The Best Daycare Centers in Nashport, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Nashport. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Nashport
The Goddard School of Zanesville
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Zanesville offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their state-licensed teachers implement age-appropriate STEAM curriculum, and the facility features secure entry systems, daily cleanliness protocols, and spacious classrooms with modern learning materials. The school emphasizes social-emotional development through structured play and offers enrichment programs including yoga, music, and Spanish. With low student-teacher ratios and comprehensive safety measures, this facility serves families throughout Muskingum County including Nashport residents.
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Children's Learning Center of Zanesville
Independent Non-Profit
Children's Learning Center provides comprehensive early childhood education with a focus on developmental milestones and school readiness. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum® with hands-on learning centers, literacy development, and social skills building. The center features secure facilities with monitored access, nutritious meal programs, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Staff maintain Ohio's Step Up To Quality ratings with qualified early childhood educators who receive ongoing professional development. The center serves as a trusted community provider for Nashport area families seeking quality childcare with structured educational programming.
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Primrose School of Newark
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Newark offers Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from educated teachers. Their research-based curriculum includes character development, literacy, math, and science programs with dedicated learning spaces for each age group. The school maintains high safety standards with secure entry systems, health screening protocols, and emergency preparedness training. Facilities include age-appropriate playgrounds, interactive technology, and dedicated art and music rooms. While located in Newark, this nationally accredited provider serves families throughout Licking County and surrounding areas including Nashport, with many parents commuting for their exceptional educational programming and comprehensive childcare services.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Nashport, OH
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Nashport, Ohio, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Nashport, Ohio, all childcare centers and family childcare homes must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training), and program curriculum. To verify a facility's compliance, you can use the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool on the ODJFS website. This public database shows the provider's license status, any recent inspection reports, and any serious rule violations. You can also contact the local ODJFS office serving Muskingum County for specific inquiries. It's highly recommended to review the latest inspection reports before enrolling your child.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Nashport, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Nashport and greater Muskingum County area, average costs for full-time, center-based infant care typically range from **$800 to $1,100 per month**. Toddler care is slightly less, often between **$700 and $950 per month**. Home-based daycare may be more affordable, sometimes ranging from $600-$850 monthly. Costs can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum, and staff credentials. For financial assistance, Ohio offers the **Publicly Funded Child Care (PFCC) program**, which provides subsidies to eligible families based on income, work, or school requirements. You apply through the Muskingum County Department of Job and Family Services. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Nashport, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Due to high demand and limited provider options in a smaller community like Nashport, waitlists for infant and toddler rooms at licensed centers can be significant. It's common to encounter waitlists of **6 to 12 months**, especially for infants. For popular providers, waitlists can extend even longer. We strongly advise parents to begin researching and contacting daycare centers **as soon as possible, ideally during pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before your needed start date**. Get on multiple waitlists (even if there's a small fee) to increase your chances. For preschool-age children (3-5 years), waitlists may be shorter but can still be several months.
Are there any unique or nature-based childcare programs available in the Nashport area that take advantage of the local rural setting?
Yes, the rural and semi-rural character of Nashport and surrounding Muskingum County does influence some childcare options. While traditional centers are available, you may find **family childcare homes** that offer more outdoor playtime in larger yards. Some providers incorporate nature-based learning, gardening, or local farm visits into their curriculum. Additionally, nearby communities like Dresden or Zanesville may have centers with a stronger outdoor education focus. It's worth asking specific questions during tours about daily outdoor time, nature exploration, and if they follow philosophies like "forest school" principles. Networking through local parent groups on social media can help identify these more unique, home-based programs.
What backup or emergency childcare options exist for parents in Nashport if our regular provider is closed or our child is mildly ill?
Backup childcare in a smaller town like Nashport requires planning. Formal "drop-in" daycare centers are rare in the immediate area. Your primary options include: 1) **Developing a network with other parents** from your daycare or local groups to arrange informal swaps. 2) Inquiring if your regular daycare center has a substitute or floater system for enrolled families during staff shortages. 3) Utilizing **in-home care services** from platforms like Care.com, where you can find local babysitters for occasional care. 4) For mildly ill children who cannot attend their regular daycare due to policy, you may need to rely on family, a trusted neighbor, or take sick leave yourself, as most centers in Ohio have strict exclusion policies for symptoms like fever. Planning ahead with a trusted babysitter list is crucial.