The Best Daycare Centers in Portland, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Portland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Portland
The Goddard School of Portsmouth
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Portsmouth provides high-quality early childhood education with a play-based learning approach combined with academic readiness. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) focuses on developmental milestones across seven learning domains. Features state-certified teachers with degrees in early childhood education, secure keypad entry systems, daily communication apps for parents, and age-appropriate playgrounds. Stands out for their STEM curriculum integration, low student-teacher ratios, and comprehensive safety protocols including regular health screenings.
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Kiddie College Child Development Center
Independent
Kiddie College offers a comprehensive developmental program focusing on social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth. Utilizes Creative Curriculum with hands-on learning centers and individualized lesson plans. Features degreed lead teachers, secure facility with surveillance systems, nutritious meal program, and large outdoor learning environment. Particularly strong in literacy development and school readiness programs, with structured learning activities balanced with creative play. Parents praise the consistent communication and family-like atmosphere.
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ABC Learning Center
Independent
ABC Learning Center provides quality childcare with a focus on developmental appropriateness and individualized attention. Their curriculum emphasizes language development, social skills, and cognitive growth through structured activities and free play. Features experienced staff with ongoing professional development, secure facility with coded entry, outdoor learning gardens, and technology-integrated classrooms. Known for their inclusive environment, strong parent-teacher partnerships, and comprehensive transition programs between age groups. Offers flexible scheduling and extended hours to accommodate working families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Portland, OH
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Portland, Ohio?
In Portland, Ohio, daycare costs are generally lower than in major metropolitan areas but can vary based on the type of care. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay approximately $600 to $850 per month for full-time infant care. For toddlers, the cost may range from $550 to $750 per month. In-home licensed family childcare providers often offer slightly lower rates, typically between $500 and $700 per month. These costs are influenced by factors such as staff-to-child ratios, program amenities, and meal provisions. It's important to note that while Ohio offers childcare assistance through the Publicly Funded Child Care program, eligibility is based on income and family size, and not all providers in Portland accept this subsidy.
How do I verify that a daycare provider in Portland is properly licensed and what should I look for in their inspection history?
All childcare providers in Ohio must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). You can verify a provider's license status and review their compliance history through the online **Ohio Child Care Search** tool. When researching a provider in Portland, pay close attention to their most recent inspection reports. Look for any "non-compliance" items, particularly those classified as "high-risk" or "low-risk with no correction," which indicate ongoing issues. Also, check for the provider's star rating in Ohio's **Step Up To Quality** (SUTQ) program; a higher star rating (1-5) signifies a commitment to exceeding minimum licensing standards. You can contact the local ODJFS office serving Auglaize County for additional guidance.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Portland, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the smaller size of Portland and surrounding Auglaize County, waitlists are not as universally long as in larger cities, but they are common for highly sought-after centers and for infant care slots. It is strongly recommended to begin your search at least 6 to 9 months before you need care, especially if you are seeking an infant spot. Some popular providers may have waitlists of 3-6 months. When contacting centers, ask directly about their current waitlist length and process. Being flexible on your start date can improve your chances. Exploring licensed family childcare homes can also provide more immediate availability.
What are the options for part-time or non-traditional hour childcare in Portland, Ohio?
Finding part-time or non-traditional hour care (evenings, weekends, overnight) in a smaller community like Portland can be challenging, as most centers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM schedule. Your best options are typically licensed family childcare homes, which may offer more flexible scheduling arrangements by individual agreement. Some in-home providers may accommodate shift workers from local industries. For occasional or backup care, you might need to look toward providers in nearby larger towns like St. Marys or Wapakoneta. Networking with other local parents through community groups or social media can also help identify caregivers who offer flexible hours.
What resources are available in Portland to help me find and compare local daycare options?
The primary resource for all Ohio parents is the **Ohio Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) Network**, specifically the agency serving Auglaize County. You can contact them for a personalized referral list of licensed providers in the Portland area. Additionally, the online **Ohio Child Care Search** tool allows you to filter by location, age group, and SUTQ star rating. For local insights, consider joining community Facebook groups like "Portland, OH Community" or "Auglaize County Parents" to ask for personal recommendations and experiences. The Auglaize County Department of Job and Family Services can also provide information on subsidy programs and local provider lists.