The Best Daycare Centers in Ray, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Ray. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Ray
Kiddie Academy of Chillicothe
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Chillicothe is a highly-regarded educational childcare center serving the Ray area with their proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on whole-child development. The center features state-certified teachers with early childhood education credentials, secure entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their program includes STEM activities, literacy development, character education, and age-appropriate learning centers. The facility offers nutritious meal programs, spacious indoor learning environments, and structured outdoor play areas. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, developmental tracking, and the nurturing environment that prepares children for kindergarten readiness.
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Little Learners Child Development Center
Independent
Little Learners Child Development Center provides comprehensive early childhood education services to families in the Ray and surrounding Ross County areas. The center employs degreed early childhood educators and maintains low teacher-to-child ratios to ensure individualized attention. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum elements with play-based learning, focusing on social-emotional development, cognitive skills, and physical development. The facility features secure access control, modern classroom environments, age-appropriate playgrounds, and comprehensive health and safety protocols. The center is particularly noted for its strong parent partnerships and detailed progress reporting system.
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Jackson County Child Development Center
Community Action Committee of Pike County
Jackson County Child Development Center serves families throughout the region including Ray, offering high-quality early childhood education with a focus on school readiness. The center employs qualified early childhood professionals and provides comprehensive services including developmental screenings, health services, and family support. Their research-based curriculum emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills development through hands-on learning experiences. The facility maintains excellent safety records with secure environments, regular safety drills, and strict health protocols. The center is particularly recognized for its inclusive environment and commitment to serving diverse family needs through various assistance programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Ray, OH
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Ray, Ohio, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Ray, Ohio, all childcare centers and family childcare homes serving more than six children must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, and program activities. You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any serious violations by using the "Child Care Search" tool on the ODJFS website. For in-home providers caring for 1-6 children, voluntary licensure is available, but they must still pass a background check. Always ask to see a current license during your tour.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Ray, OH, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In Ray and the surrounding rural Ohio area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $700 to $950 per month, while toddler care may cost between $650 and $850 per month. Costs can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum, and staff credentials. For financial assistance, Ohio offers the publicly funded childcare program through the Jackson County Department of Job and Family Services. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work or school requirements. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's important to inquire directly.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Ray, and how far in advance should I start looking for a spot?
Yes, due to limited capacity in this smaller community, waitlists for quality daycare centers, especially for infants, are common in Ray. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists at least 6 to 9 months before you need care, and even earlier if you have a newborn. Some popular centers may have waitlists exceeding a year. When contacting providers, ask about their current waitlist length, the deposit policy to hold a spot, and how often they update families on their position.
What types of childcare options are most commonly available in a small town like Ray, Ohio?
Ray primarily offers two types of licensed childcare: center-based care and family childcare homes (FCCPs). Center-based care is less common but provides a structured environment with multiple staff. Family childcare homes, where a provider cares for a small group of children in their residence, are a prevalent and often more flexible option in rural areas. You may also find in-home nannies or babysitters, though these are typically unlicensed private arrangements. Due to the rural setting, options like large corporate chains or specialized preschools are limited, and many families rely on local, home-based providers.
What should I look for during a daycare tour specific to facilities in Ray, given its rural location?
When touring a daycare in Ray, pay close attention to factors influenced by the rural setting. First, inquire about their emergency preparedness plan for severe weather common to Southern Ohio and their protocol if medical care is needed, noting the distance to the nearest hospital. Check the outdoor play area for safety and ask about their policy for ticks and insects. For family homes, ensure the space is childproofed and dedicated solely to childcare. Also, ask about their food sourcing—whether meals are provided or if you need to pack them—as options for delivered catering may be limited. Finally, observe how the staff engages with the children to ensure a warm, attentive environment.