The Best Daycare Centers in Shawnee, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Shawnee. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Shawnee
Little Buckeye Learning Center
Independent
Little Buckeye Learning Center is a highly-regarded early childhood education facility serving the Shawnee area from nearby New Lexington. They offer a comprehensive curriculum focused on developmental milestones through play-based learning and structured activities. The center features state-licensed teachers with early childhood education credentials, low student-to-teacher ratios, and secure facility access. Their program includes age-appropriate learning centers, outdoor play areas, and nutritional meal programs. Parents consistently praise the center's nurturing environment, experienced staff, and strong communication about child progress and daily activities.
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Kiddie Academy of Lancaster
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Lancaster provides premium educational childcare serving families throughout the region including Shawnee. Their Life Essentials® curriculum focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and social-emotional learning through hands-on activities. The facility features secure entry systems, modern classrooms with age-appropriate learning materials, and certified teachers with ongoing professional development. The academy offers comprehensive safety protocols, nutritious meals prepared on-site, and regular parent communication through digital platforms. Their approach balances academic preparation with social development in a nurturing environment.
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Primrose School of Lancaster
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Lancaster is a nationally recognized early education provider serving the broader region including Shawnee families. Their Balanced Learning® approach combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from degreed teachers. The curriculum emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and character development through hands-on experiences. The state-of-the-art facility includes secure classrooms, outdoor learning environments, and dedicated spaces for music, art, and motor skills development. Parents consistently rate the school highly for its structured yet engaging environment, qualified teaching staff, and comprehensive safety measures including secure entry systems and health protocols.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Shawnee, OH
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Shawnee, Ohio, and how can I verify a facility's compliance?
In Shawnee, Ohio, all childcare providers caring for more than six children at one time must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). This includes family childcare homes (7-12 children) and childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training), and facility safety. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool on the ODJFS website. This resource allows you to see the provider's license status, any recent inspection reports, and any serious violations or corrective actions. It's a crucial first step for any parent in the Shawnee area.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Shawnee, OH, and are there financial assistance programs available locally?
In Shawnee and the surrounding Perry County area, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from **$600 to $850 per month**, while toddler care may range from **$550 to $750 per month**. These rates can vary based on the type of facility (center vs. home-based), specific programs offered, and the age of the child. For financial assistance, Ohio's **Publicly Funded Child Care (PFCC)** program helps eligible low-income families. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work/training requirements. Applications are processed through the Perry County Department of Job and Family Services. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Shawnee, and what can I do to secure a spot for my child?
Due to limited childcare options in a smaller community like Shawnee, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant rooms. It's common for popular centers to have waitlists of **6 to 12 months** for infants. For toddlers and preschoolers, wait times may be shorter, around 3-6 months. To secure a spot, it's highly recommended to begin your search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. Be proactive: call providers to ask about their current list length, get on the list even if you're unsure, and follow up every few months to confirm your interest remains active. Exploring both licensed centers in Shawnee and registered family childcare homes in the surrounding rural areas can increase your options.
Are there any unique childcare options or programs in Shawnee that cater to non-traditional work schedules, like evenings or weekends?
Finding childcare for non-traditional hours (evenings, nights, weekends) is particularly challenging in Shawnee, as most licensed centers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM schedule. Your best options are to seek out **licensed family childcare homes**, as some providers may offer more flexible hours to accommodate shift workers common in the region's manufacturing and healthcare sectors. It's also worth inquiring with centers if they have staff who might provide private babysitting during off-hours. For reliable weekend or evening care, many Shawnee parents rely on trusted networks of local babysitters or nanny shares. There are currently no dedicated 24-hour childcare centers in the immediate Shawnee area.
What local resources in Perry County can help me find and evaluate quality childcare near Shawnee?
The primary local resource is **Ohio's Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency**, which serves Perry County. You can contact them via the statewide toll-free number (877-852-0010) or website to get a personalized referral list of licensed providers in the Shawnee/Perry County area based on your specific needs (location, hours, child's age). Additionally, the **Perry County Health Department** can provide information on health and safety regulations. For informal evaluations, talk to other parents at local spots like the Shawnee Library branch or community events. Checking online community forums (like Perry County-specific Facebook groups) can also provide candid parent reviews and recommendations for local providers.