The Best Daycare Centers in South Point, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in South Point. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in South Point
Little Peoples Place Child Development Center
Little Peoples Place
Little Peoples Place is a highly-regarded local childcare center serving South Point with a comprehensive educational approach. They offer age-appropriate curriculum including Creative Curriculum for infants and toddlers and HighScope for preschool programs. The center features secure facilities with keypad entry, certified teachers with early childhood education credentials, and low student-to-teacher ratios. Their program emphasizes developmental milestones, social-emotional learning, and school readiness. The facility includes spacious classrooms, dedicated playgrounds for different age groups, and provides nutritious meals. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, clean environment, and strong communication.
Daycare Services:
The Learning Center
The Learning Center
Located just across the river in Ashland, The Learning Center serves families throughout the Tri-State area including South Point. This center offers a research-based curriculum focusing on early literacy, STEM activities, and social development. Features include state-licensed teachers with bachelor's degrees in early childhood education, secure monitored facilities, and comprehensive safety protocols. The program includes daily progress reports, parent-teacher conferences, and developmental assessments. Their facility includes modern classrooms, indoor gross motor area, and age-appropriate outdoor play spaces. The center is noted for its strong academic preparation and nurturing environment.
Daycare Services:
Primrose School of Huntington
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Huntington is a nationally accredited childcare provider serving the greater Huntington area, including South Point families. They implement the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach, blending purposeful play with nurturing guidance from teachers. The curriculum emphasizes character development, literacy, math, science, and creative arts. Features include secure facilities with restricted access, degreed lead teachers, and low child-to-teacher ratios. The school offers enrichment programs in music, Spanish, and physical development. Parents consistently rate the school highly for its structured curriculum, experienced staff, and comprehensive communication through the Primrose Schools app.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in South Point, OH
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in South Point, Ohio?
In South Point, Ohio, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For infants (under 18 months), you can expect to pay between $130 and $180 per week at a licensed in-home daycare. At larger childcare centers in the area or in nearby Ironton or Ashland, KY, infant care typically ranges from $160 to $220 per week. Toddler care (ages 18 months to 3 years) is generally slightly less, averaging $120 to $170 per week. These rates are often more affordable than in larger Ohio cities like Columbus or Cincinnati. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. Many providers in the area participate in the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) Publicly Funded Child Care program, which can provide financial assistance to eligible families.
How can I verify that a daycare in South Point is properly licensed and has a good safety record?
All childcare providers in South Point must be licensed by the State of Ohio through the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). You can verify a provider's license status and review their compliance history online through the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool. This public database shows the provider's license type (Type A Family, Type B Family, or Child Care Center), their current status, and any past violations or inspections. It's highly recommended to visit any potential daycare in person. During your tour, ask to see their license, their emergency evacuation plans, and ask about staff training in CPR/First Aid and Safe Sleep practices for infants. You can also contact the Lawrence County Department of Job and Family Services for local insights or check with other parents in the South Point community for personal recommendations.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in South Point, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the smaller number of dedicated childcare centers within South Point itself, popular providers and highly-rated in-home daycares often have waitlists, especially for infant spots. It is strongly advised to begin your search **at least 3-6 months before you need care**, and if you are expecting a baby, to get on lists during your second trimester. Many families in South Point also consider options in the immediate tri-state area, including Ironton, OH, and Ashland, KY, which may have different availability. When contacting a provider, always ask about their current waitlist policy, estimated wait time, and if a deposit is required to hold a spot. Being flexible with your start date can sometimes help secure a placement sooner.
What are the main types of childcare available to families in South Point, Ohio?
Families in South Point have several licensed childcare options. The most common are: 1. **Type A Family Child Care Homes:** Operated in a provider's home with a maximum of 12 children (with assistants). These often offer a home-like setting. 2. **Type B Family Child Care Homes:** Also in a provider's home, caring for up to 6 children (no more than 3 under age 2). These are often run by a relative or someone known to the family. 3. **Child Care Centers:** Larger, facility-based programs. There are a limited number within South Point village limits, so many families use centers in neighboring Ironton. 4. **Preschool Programs:** Often part of churches, community organizations, or public school districts, typically serving children ages 3-5 for part-day programs. Additionally, some families utilize legally unlicensed "in-home" care from a friend or neighbor for fewer children, but these are not regulated by the state. Your choice will depend on your child's needs, your budget, and your desired schedule.
What resources are available in South Point or Lawrence County to help me find and choose quality childcare?
Your primary local resource is the **Lawrence County Department of Job and Family Services**. They can provide referrals to licensed providers and information on financial assistance programs. The statewide **Ohio Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) network**, accessed through agencies like "4C for Children" (which serves southern Ohio), offers free, personalized referrals and guides on choosing quality care. You can also connect with other parents through local Facebook groups (e.g., "South Point, Ohio Community" or "Lawrence County, OH Parents") for word-of-mouth recommendations. For evaluating quality, use Ohio's **Step Up To Quality (SUTQ)** rating system—a voluntary program where providers earn 1 to 5 stars. Looking for a rated provider is a great way to identify programs committed to higher standards of learning and development.