The Best Daycare Centers in Nova, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Nova. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Nova
The Goddard School of Ashland
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Ashland offers a premier early childhood education program serving families in the Nova area. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) focuses on play-based learning while developing academic, social, and emotional skills. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Certified teachers implement a structured curriculum that includes STEAM learning, language development, and character education. The center maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and provides nutritious meals and snacks. Parents appreciate the regular communication through daily reports and the strong emphasis on safety protocols.
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Wellington Child Development Center
Independent
Wellington Child Development Center provides comprehensive childcare services to families throughout Lorain County, including Nova residents. The center follows a developmental approach that balances structured learning with creative exploration. Their curriculum incorporates Ohio's Early Learning and Development Standards, focusing on literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills. The facility includes secure classrooms, dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, and age-appropriate playgrounds. Staff members hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing training in child development and safety procedures. The center is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and strong parent-teacher partnerships.
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Kids 'R' Kids Learning Academy of Avon
Kids 'R' Kids International
Kids 'R' Kids Learning Academy of Avon serves families across Lorain County, including the Nova community, with their advanced curriculum and state-of-the-art facilities. The academy features a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) based curriculum integrated with traditional learning methods. Their secure facility includes interactive whiteboards, computer labs for older children, and indoor gymnasiums for active play. The center maintains an open-door policy for parents and provides live streaming video access. Highly qualified teachers implement age-appropriate lesson plans that prepare children for kindergarten while nurturing individual development. Safety features include secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and rigorous cleaning protocols.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Nova, OH
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Nova, Ohio?
In Nova, Ohio, and the surrounding rural Ashland County area, full-time daycare costs are generally lower than in major metropolitan areas but can vary based on the type of provider. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay approximately $150 to $225 per week for an infant or toddler. In-home licensed family childcare homes may range from $120 to $180 per week. These rates are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, included amenities (meals, curriculum), and the specific location within the county. It's important to note that due to the rural nature of the area, options may be limited, and some providers might have more flexible pricing for part-time care. We recommend contacting providers directly for their most current rates and inquiring about any potential multi-child discounts.
How can I verify that a daycare or preschool in Nova is properly licensed and safe?
All childcare programs in Nova, Ohio, must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any compliance history through the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool online. This public database is the most reliable resource. When visiting a potential daycare, ask to see their current license and their most recent inspection report (Form 5103:2-12-13), which they are required to post. In Ashland County, you can also contact the local ODJFS office for guidance. Always look for providers who are either "Licensed" or "Licensed Type A Family Child Care," as these meet state standards for safety, staff training, and facility requirements.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Nova, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Given that Nova is a smaller, rural community, the number of licensed childcare centers is limited. This can sometimes lead to longer waitlists, especially for infant care slots, which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. It is highly advisable to begin your search **at least 6 to 9 months before you need care**, and if you are expecting a child, to get on lists during your second trimester. Popular local centers and highly-regarded in-home providers often have the longest waits. When contacting providers, ask specifically about their current waitlist length, the deposit policy to hold a spot, and how often they update families on their position. Exploring options in nearby towns like Ashland or Polk may provide additional alternatives if local waitlists are prohibitive.
What types of childcare assistance or subsidy programs are available for families in Ashland County?
Families in Nova may qualify for financial assistance through the **Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) Publicly Funded Child Care (PFCC) program**. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or attending school). You apply through the Ashland County Department of Job and Family Services. Additionally, some local providers may offer private scholarships or sliding scale fees. It's also worth checking if your employer offers a Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA), which uses pre-tax dollars for childcare expenses. For early education-focused programs, you can inquire about Ohio's Early Childhood Education grants or Head Start programs, though these may be based in larger towns within the county.
What are some key questions to ask when touring a daycare or in-home provider in a rural area like Nova?
Beyond standard questions about curriculum and daily schedules, parents in Nova should ask location-specific questions. **Transportation:** Do they provide or assist with transportation for school-age children to/from local schools like Mapleton Elementary? **Weather Policies:** What is their policy for delays or closures due to severe rural weather or road conditions? **Emergency Preparedness:** Given the distance to major hospitals, what is their protocol for medical emergencies, and are all staff pediatric first-aid/CPR certified? **Outdoor Play:** How do they utilize outdoor space, and what safety measures are in place given the potential for rural hazards (e.g., proximity to fields, roads)? Finally, ask about their community connections and how they communicate with parents, as close-knit communication is especially valuable in smaller communities.