The Best Daycare Centers in Randolph, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Randolph. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Randolph
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Streetsboro serves the Randolph area with a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social development. Their play-based curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. All teachers are highly qualified with degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. They maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios and provide daily communication to parents about their child's activities and progress.
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Kiddie Academy of Stow
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Stow provides educational childcare to families in Randolph and surrounding communities through their Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, and STEM activities. The center features secure keypad entry, comprehensive safety protocols, and sanitization procedures. Their degreed teachers implement age-appropriate lesson plans that promote cognitive, social, and physical development. The academy offers nutritious meals and snacks, regular parent-teacher conferences, and real-time updates through their mobile app. Their program includes Spanish language exposure, music activities, and structured physical education.
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Creative Kids Learning Center
Independent
Creative Kids Learning Center in Kent serves Randolph families with a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning and social-emotional development. The center maintains small class sizes with low teacher-to-child ratios and employs experienced educators with backgrounds in early childhood development. Their facility includes separate playgrounds for different age groups, modern learning materials, and secure access controls. The curriculum incorporates literacy development, math concepts, science exploration, and creative arts. They provide regular developmental assessments and maintain open communication with parents through daily reports and parent portals.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Randolph, OH
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Randolph, Ohio, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Randolph, Ohio, all childcare centers and family childcare homes must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). Key requirements include background checks for all staff, specific staff-to-child ratios based on age (e.g., 1:4 for infants), health and safety training, and regular facility inspections. To verify a provider's compliance and view their latest inspection reports, you can use the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool on the ODJFS website. This public database allows you to search by provider name or zip code (44265 for Randolph) to see their license status, any cited violations, and their star rating in Ohio's Step Up To Quality (SUTQ) program, which indicates a higher level of quality.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Randolph, OH, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In Randolph and the surrounding Portage County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from **$800 to $1,100 per month**, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging **$700 to $950 per month**. Costs can vary based on the type of provider (center vs. in-home) and their SUTQ star rating. For financial assistance, Ohio's **Publicly Funded Child Care** program helps eligible low-income families. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work or school requirements. You can apply through the Portage County Department of Job and Family Services. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
Are daycare waitlists common in Randolph, and how far in advance should I start looking for a spot?
Yes, waitlists are common, especially for infant rooms and highly-rated centers in Randolph and nearby communities like Ravenna or Kent. Due to limited slots and high demand, it is strongly recommended to **begin your search at least 6 to 9 months before you need care**. For infant care, starting your search during pregnancy is advisable. When contacting providers, ask specifically about their waitlist process: if there's a fee, how often you need to confirm your interest, and the estimated timeline. Exploring options in neighboring towns can also increase your chances of finding an opening sooner.
What are the main types of childcare options available to families in Randolph, Ohio?
Families in Randolph have several primary options: 1) **Licensed Child Care Centers**: These are facilities like Randolph Christian Preschool or centers in nearby Ravenna, offering structured programs for multiple age groups. 2) **Licensed Family Child Care Homes**: Smaller, home-based settings often with mixed-age groups, which can offer a more family-like environment. 3) **Ohio-Publicly Funded Preschool Programs**: For children ages 3-5, these are often offered through local school districts like the Waterloo Local School District. 4) **In-Home Care (Nannies/Au Pairs)**: Less common in rural Randolph but an option for flexible, in-home care. Many families also utilize providers in the larger Portage County hub of Ravenna, just a short drive away.
How does Ohio's "Step Up To Quality" (SUTQ) rating system work, and why is it important when choosing a daycare in Randolph?
Step Up To Quality (SUTQ) is Ohio's voluntary quality rating system for licensed childcare programs. Providers earn 1 to 5 stars based on criteria like staff qualifications and education, learning environments, family engagement, and administrative practices. A higher star rating indicates a program that goes beyond minimum licensing standards. In Randolph, seeking a SUTQ-rated provider is important because it correlates with better school readiness outcomes. You can filter for rated programs using the Ohio Child Care Search tool. While not all local in-home providers may participate, many centers in the region strive for these ratings. A 3-, 4-, or 5-star program is a strong indicator of a commitment to quality early education.
Childcare Insights for Randolph
If you're a parent in Randolph, Ohio, typing "daycare cost near me" into a search bar, you're likely navigating the important and sometimes overwhelming task of finding quality, affordable childcare. You're not alone in this search, and understanding the local landscape here in Portage County is the first step toward making a confident decision for your family. In Randolph and the surrounding communities, daycare costs can vary based on several key factors, including the type of care, the age of your child, and the specific programs offered.
Generally, for Randolph and nearby towns like Atwater or Rootstown, you can expect to encounter a range of options from licensed in-home providers to larger childcare centers. For an infant, which is typically the most expensive age group due to higher staff-to-child ratios, costs in this area often range from approximately $800 to $1,100 per month for full-time care. As children grow into the toddler and preschool years, those monthly fees usually decrease slightly, often falling between $700 and $950. It's important to note that these are estimates, and contacting providers directly for their current rates is essential. Some centers in the region may also offer part-time schedules, which can provide a more budget-friendly option for families with flexible needs.
When considering cost, look beyond the monthly tuition. Many facilities in our community include essentials like meals, snacks, and curriculum materials in their base price, while others might charge additional fees for these items. Always ask for a detailed breakdown of what is included. Furthermore, exploring financial assistance can make a significant difference. Ohio offers programs like the publicly funded childcare assistance through the Department of Job and Family Services. Eligibility is based on income and need, and applying through the Portage County JFS office can help determine if your family qualifies for support to offset daycare costs right here in Randolph.
Another practical tip for Randolph parents is to consider the value of proximity. While you might find a slightly lower rate in a neighboring town, factor in the time and cost of daily commuting, especially during our Ohio winters. A provider closer to home or work can offer invaluable convenience and stability. When you visit local options, ask about their philosophy, daily routines, and staff qualifications. A warm, engaging environment where your child thrives is priceless, and sometimes paying a bit more for a program that perfectly aligns with your family's values is a worthwhile investment.
Finally, trust your local network. Talk to other parents at the park or community events in Randolph. Personal recommendations can lead you to wonderful, trusted caregivers who may not have a large online presence. Finding the right daycare is a balance of budget, quality, and peace of mind. By researching local rates, asking detailed questions, and exploring available resources, you can find a childcare solution in the Randolph area that supports your child’s growth and fits your family’s financial picture.