The Best Daycare Centers in New Lexington, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in New Lexington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in New Lexington
The Goddard School of Lancaster
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Lancaster offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. Their highly qualified teachers implement play-based learning with STEAM curriculum elements. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. They maintain low student-to-teacher ratios and provide daily communication with parents through their proprietary app. The center is known for its comprehensive safety protocols and nurturing environment that encourages children's natural curiosity.
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Kiddie Academy of Lancaster
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Lancaster provides educational child care with their Life Essentials® curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. Their program includes technology-enriched learning, character education, and health & fitness components. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, dedicated playgrounds for different age groups, and classrooms equipped with modern learning materials. Their qualified teachers receive ongoing professional development and maintain CPR/first aid certifications. Parents appreciate the consistent communication and detailed progress reports tracking developmental milestones.
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Hocking Valley Community Hospital Child Development Center
Hocking Valley Community Hospital
The Hocking Valley Community Hospital Child Development Center offers a unique hospital-affiliated childcare program with emphasis on health, safety, and developmental appropriateness. Their curriculum incorporates early literacy, math readiness, and social skills development while maintaining rigorous health and sanitation standards. The center benefits from hospital resources including on-site nursing support and enhanced emergency protocols. Classrooms are designed to stimulate learning through various activity centers, and the outdoor play areas provide safe exploration spaces. The center is particularly noted for its highly qualified staff with low turnover rates and comprehensive background checks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in New Lexington, OH
What types of licensed childcare options are available in New Lexington, Ohio?
In New Lexington, parents can find several types of licensed childcare options. These include licensed childcare centers, which are often larger facilities with structured programs, and licensed family childcare homes, which offer a smaller, home-like setting typically run by a provider in their residence. Perry County, where New Lexington is located, also has some preschool programs that may be affiliated with local schools or community organizations. All licensed providers in Ohio are regulated by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) and must meet state standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, and child-to-staff ratios. Due to the rural nature of the area, family childcare homes can be a particularly important and accessible option for many families.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in New Lexington?
The cost of childcare in New Lexington and Perry County is generally more affordable than in Ohio's major metropolitan areas, but it still represents a significant portion of a family's budget. For full-time care, you can expect to pay approximately $120 to $180 per week for a toddler in a family childcare home. Licensed childcare centers may range from $140 to $220 per week for an infant or toddler. These are estimates, and rates can vary based on the provider's amenities, hours, and included services like meals. It's important to ask for a detailed breakdown of fees. Families with lower incomes may qualify for assistance through the publicly funded childcare program administered by the Perry County Department of Job and Family Services.
How can I check the licensing and inspection history of a daycare in Perry County?
Ohio provides a transparent system for parents to research childcare providers. You can use the "Child Care Search" tool on the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) website. This database allows you to search for providers in New Lexington or by Perry County. For each licensed program, you can view their current license status, any type of license (e.g., center or family home), capacity, and crucially, their inspection reports. These reports detail any compliance issues, rule violations, and the steps taken to correct them. You can also contact the ODJFS Office for Ohio's Southeast Region for additional information. Always verify a provider's license is current during your initial visit or phone call.
Are there long waitlists for daycare in New Lexington, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Waitlists for childcare, especially for infant spots, are common in New Lexington due to the limited number of providers in a smaller community. High-quality and well-regarded centers or family homes often have the longest wait times. It is highly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a return to work start their search during pregnancy or at least 6 to 9 months before they need care. When contacting providers, be sure to ask specifically about their waitlist process: Is there a fee to be on the list? How often should you check in? Are spots offered based on application date or other criteria? Being proactive and getting on multiple lists can increase your chances of securing a spot when you need it.
What local resources or organizations in Perry County can help me find and choose quality childcare?
A key local resource is the **Perry County Department of Job and Family Services (PCDJFS)**. They can provide referrals to licensed providers and information on eligibility for publicly funded childcare assistance. Additionally, **Ohio's Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency**, which serves the region (often through organizations like Hocking Athens Perry Community Action), offers free referrals, parenting resources, and guidance on what to look for in a quality program. For early learning support, you can also connect with the **Perry County Board of Developmental Disabilities** for resources if you have concerns about your child's development. Checking with local community centers, libraries, and churches may also yield information about preschool or part-time care programs.
Childcare Insights for New Lexington
Finding quality infant care is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make as a new parent in New Lexington. It’s more than just a service; it’s about finding a nurturing extension of your family for your little one during those important early months. If you’re typing “infant child care near me” into your search bar, you’re likely feeling a mix of hope and anxiety, wanting the very best for your baby right here in our community. The good news is that Perry County offers several dedicated options, and knowing what to look for locally can make your search much smoother.
Start your search by understanding the types of care available close to home. In New Lexington and the surrounding Perry County area, you’ll typically find licensed family childcare homes and larger childcare centers. Family homes often provide a cozy, home-like setting with smaller groups, which can be very comforting for an infant. Centers may offer more structured programs and multiple caregivers. A great first step is to contact the Perry County Department of Job and Family Services. They maintain a list of licensed providers and can be an invaluable resource for understanding local regulations and availability. Don’t underestimate the power of local networks, either. Ask for recommendations at the Perry County District Library’s story time, your pediatrician’s office in town, or even other parents at the New Lexington Village Park. Personal experiences from neighbors can lead you to trusted caregivers you might not find through an online search alone.
When you visit a potential provider, go beyond the checklist. Yes, you need to verify their license is current, check their safety protocols, and understand their policies on feeding and naps. But for an infant, the caregiver’s demeanor is paramount. Observe how they speak to and hold the babies already in their care. Are they engaged and responsive? In a smaller community like ours, you also want to ask about their long-term connection to the area. A provider with deep roots in Perry County often brings a wonderful sense of stability and community values to their work. Discuss their experience specifically with infants, including their training in safe sleep practices (a crucial topic) and how they handle milestones and daily updates for you. Given our location, it’s also wise to ask about their plan for inclement weather or if they have backup power, ensuring your baby’s safety and routine remain consistent.
Finally, trust your instincts as a parent. The right place will feel right. You should feel a sense of partnership and open communication with the caregiver. They should welcome your questions about how they’ll comfort your baby or their daily routine. Securing infant care in New Lexington may require some patience, as spots can be limited, so it’s beneficial to start your search early. Remember, you are choosing a partner to help your infant grow and thrive in these foundational months. Taking the time to find a nurturing, safe, and loving environment here in our own community will give you priceless peace of mind as you navigate the beautiful journey of parenthood in Perry County.