The Best Daycare Centers in Saint Clairsville, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Saint Clairsville. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Saint Clairsville
The Goddard School of St. Clairsville
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in St. Clairsville offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and daily digital parent communication. Certified teachers implement age-appropriate STEAM curriculum with hands-on learning activities, dedicated outdoor playgrounds for each age group, and nutritional meal programs. The school emphasizes character development, social-emotional learning, and school readiness with low student-teacher ratios and ongoing professional development for educators.
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The Children's Garden Learning Center
Independent
The Children's Garden Learning Center provides comprehensive childcare with a focus on developmental milestones and individualized learning plans. The center features a research-based curriculum that incorporates Creative Curriculum elements with Ohio Early Learning Standards. Facilities include secure indoor learning environments with age-appropriate classrooms, fenced outdoor play areas, and dedicated infant suites with separate nap rooms. Staff members hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing training in child development, safety protocols, and emergency preparedness. The center emphasizes parent partnership through regular progress reports, family events, and open communication about daily activities and developmental achievements.
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Harmony House Childcare & Learning Center
Independent
Located just across the Ohio River in Glen Dale, WV, Harmony House serves families throughout the St. Clairsville area with a comprehensive early learning program. The center implements HighScope curriculum emphasizing active participatory learning, child-initiated activities, and adult-child interaction. Safety features include secured entry systems, comprehensive video monitoring, and strict health protocols. The facility offers spacious classrooms organized into interest areas, large motor skill development spaces, and nature-based outdoor learning environments. Staff maintain low child-to-teacher ratios and participate in continuous professional development. The center focuses on developing critical thinking skills, social competence, and kindergarten readiness through hands-on learning experiences and individualized attention.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Saint Clairsville, OH
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Saint Clairsville, Ohio?
In Saint Clairsville and the surrounding Belmont County area, full-time daycare costs can vary based on the type of facility and the child's age. For an infant (under 18 months), you can expect to pay between $150 to $225 per week at a licensed daycare center. For toddlers (18 months to 3 years), weekly rates typically range from $130 to $190. Home-based family childcare providers in the area may offer slightly lower rates, often between $120 to $175 per week for full-time care. These costs are generally lower than the state average for Ohio, reflecting the local cost of living. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly fee, such as meals, snacks, diapers, and curriculum materials.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Saint Clairsville?
All childcare programs in Ohio, including those in Saint Clairsville, must be licensed or certified by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). The most reliable way to verify a provider's status and review their compliance history is to use the publicly available "Child Care Search" tool on the ODJFS website. You can search by provider name, location, or county (Belmont). This report will show the provider's license type (e.g., Child Care Center, Type A Family Child Care Home), its current status, capacity, and a history of any licensing inspections, including violations and the steps taken to correct them. You can also contact the ODJFS Office for Belmont County directly for additional information.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Saint Clairsville, and what's the best way to secure a spot?
Waitlist availability varies significantly by provider in Saint Clairsville. Popular centers, especially those affiliated with local employers or with high-quality Step Up To Quality ratings, often have waitlists, particularly for infant rooms, which can range from 3 to 9 months. Smaller family childcare homes may have more immediate openings. The best strategy is to begin your search at least 6-12 months before you need care. Contact multiple providers to get on their interest or waitlists, even if you are still considering options. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist or registration fee (typically $25-$75). Following up with a phone call every 2-3 months can also help keep your family top-of-mind.
What local resources or programs in Belmont County can help parents afford quality childcare?
Several state and federal programs administered locally can assist eligible families in Saint Clairsville. The primary resource is the **Publicly Funded Child Care (PFCC) program** through ODJFS, which provides subsidies based on income, family size, and need (such as employment or education). You can apply through the Belmont County Department of Job and Family Services. Additionally, all parents should explore Ohio's **Step Up To Quality (SUTQ)** program. While not direct financial aid, it helps you identify highly-rated programs. Some local centers may also offer sibling discounts or scholarships. For early intervention and preschool services, contact the **Belmont County Board of Developmental Disabilities** or **Belmont-Harrison Counties Educational Service Center**.
What are the key differences between a daycare center and a licensed in-home family childcare provider in Saint Clairsville?
In Saint Clairsville, your main licensed options are Child Care Centers and Family Child Care Homes (Type A or B). **Centers** are typically larger facilities with multiple classrooms, staffed by several teachers and a director. They often follow a structured curriculum, have set hours, and may offer amenities like commercial kitchens and playgrounds. **Family Child Care Homes** operate out of the provider's residence. Type A homes can care for up to 12 children (with assistants), while Type B homes care for up to 6 children from no more than one family outside their own. In-home care often offers a more home-like, flexible environment with mixed-age groups, which can be beneficial for siblings. Centers may provide more social interaction with same-age peers and potentially more robust backup staffing. Both are regulated by the same state licensing rules for health, safety, and training.