The Best Daycare Centers in Ostrander, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Ostrander. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Ostrander
The Goddard School of Delaware
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Delaware 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 curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and hands-on activities in purpose-built classrooms. All teachers are highly qualified with ongoing professional development, and the facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and comprehensive safety protocols. The school emphasizes individualized learning plans and maintains low student-to-teacher ratios for personalized attention.
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Kiddie Academy of Powell
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Powell provides comprehensive educational childcare with their Life Essentials® curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. The academy features state-licensed teachers with degrees in early childhood education, secure keypad entry systems, and modern facilities with interactive technology. Their program includes Spanish language exposure, music and movement, and STEM activities. The center maintains rigorous health and safety standards with daily cleaning protocols, nutritionally balanced meals, and regular communication with parents through their mobile app.
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Primrose School of Delaware
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Delaware offers the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. Their curriculum emphasizes literacy, character development, and essential life skills through hands-on learning experiences. The school features secure facilities with surveillance systems, dedicated age-specific playgrounds, and bright, engaging classrooms. Teachers participate in continuous professional development and maintain low child-to-teacher ratios. The school is known for its strong parent partnerships and comprehensive communication about each child's developmental progress.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Ostrander, OH
What types of licensed childcare options are available in and around Ostrander, Ohio?
In Ostrander and the surrounding Delaware County area, parents typically have access to several types of licensed childcare. These include licensed family childcare homes (operated in a provider's residence, often with a smaller group of children) and licensed childcare centers, which are more common in nearby towns like Delaware or Marysville. Due to Ostrander's smaller, rural nature, many local options are home-based. All providers must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS), which sets standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, and child-to-staff ratios. You can search for licensed providers specifically in Delaware County using the Ohio Child Care Search tool online.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Ostrander, OH?
Childcare costs in Ostrander are generally influenced by the rates in Delaware County. For a full-time infant (under 18 months), you can expect to pay an average of approximately $180 to $250 per week at a licensed family childcare home. Center-based care in nearby larger towns may range from $220 to $320 per week for infants. Costs for toddlers are slightly lower, typically ranging from $160 to $230 per week. These are estimates, and prices can vary based on the provider's amenities, hours, and included services (like meals). It's important to note that as a rural community, options within Ostrander itself may be limited, potentially affecting availability and price.
Are there long waitlists for daycare in Ostrander, and how can I secure a spot for my child?
Given Ostrander's size, the number of local providers is limited, which can lead to waitlists, especially for infant care. It is very common for popular in-home providers or centers in neighboring Delaware to have waitlists of several months. To secure a spot, parents are advised to start their search early, ideally during pregnancy or 6-9 months before needed care. Contact multiple providers to get on their waitlists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable deposit to hold a spot once offered. Staying in regular, polite contact with providers on your list can also be beneficial. Exploring providers in adjacent communities like Prospect or Raymond can increase your options.
What financial assistance programs are available for Ostrander families to help with childcare costs?
Ohio offers several programs to assist eligible families. The primary program is the publicly funded childcare assistance through the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work/training requirements. You apply through the Delaware County Department of Job and Family Services. Additionally, some providers may offer sibling discounts. 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 military families, there may be specific programs available. Always ask potential providers if they accept state subsidy payments.
What should I look for during a daycare tour or interview with a provider in Ostrander?
When touring a potential daycare, whether a home or center, focus on both state requirements and your personal comfort. First, verify their current Ohio license is posted and check for any past violations online. Observe the cleanliness and safety of the environment (secured outlets, safe toys, fenced outdoor area). Notice how staff interact with children—are they engaged and responsive? Ask about their daily schedule, discipline policy, sick child policy, and emergency procedures. Inquire about staff qualifications, turnover, and the child-to-staff ratio. For Ostrander specifically, ask about their plan for inclement weather and transportation if your child will need to go to/from school. Trust your instincts about the overall atmosphere and communication style.
Nearby Cities
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