The Best Daycare Centers in Stratton, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Stratton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Stratton
Primrose School of Steubenville
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Steubenville offers a nationally accredited Balanced Learning® curriculum that blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The facility features age-appropriate learning environments, secure entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. Teachers hold early childhood education credentials and maintain low student-teacher ratios. The curriculum focuses on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development through hands-on activities. Parents appreciate the consistent communication through the Primrose Schools app and the nutritious meal program included in tuition.
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Bright Horizons at Weirton
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Weirton provides high-quality early education with a research-based curriculum that emphasizes STEM learning, literacy development, and social skills. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups, and classrooms equipped with modern learning materials. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the center maintains NAEYC accreditation standards. The program includes enrichment activities like music, movement, and Spanish language exposure, with detailed developmental progress reports for parents.
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Kiddie Academy of St. Clairsville
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of St. Clairsville implements the Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, academic readiness, and physical health through structured learning centers and play-based activities. The facility includes secure entry systems, CCTV monitoring, and emergency preparedness protocols. Certified teachers create individualized learning plans and maintain small class sizes. The academy offers technology-enhanced learning, nutritionally balanced meals, and regular parent-teacher conferences. The program emphasizes community connections and real-world learning experiences that prepare children for kindergarten and beyond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Stratton, OH
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Stratton, Ohio, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Stratton, 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 (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:12 for preschoolers), 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 shows the license type, any violations, and the program's current status. It's a crucial first step for any parent in Stratton to ensure their chosen provider meets state-mandated safety standards.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Stratton, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Stratton 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 center's amenities, curriculum, and staff qualifications. For financial assistance, Ohio's **Publicly Funded Child Care (PFCC)** program helps eligible low- to moderate-income families. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work or school requirements. Applications are processed through the Jefferson County Department of Job and Family Services, which serves Stratton. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Stratton, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Stratton, waitlists for infant and toddler spots at highly-regarded centers can be **6 to 12 months long**. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search and get on waitlists **as early as possible during pregnancy**. For preschool-age children, waitlists may be shorter, around 3-6 months. When contacting a center, ask specific questions: your position on the list, if there's a fee to join it, and how often they update families on availability. Exploring both licensed centers in Stratton and registered family childcare homes in the surrounding Jefferson County area can increase your chances of finding an opening sooner.
Are there any daycare centers or preschools in Stratton that offer specialized programs, such as for children with special needs or faith-based education?
While Stratton itself is a small village, parents often look to nearby communities like Steubenville or Toronto for more specialized options. However, within Stratton and its immediate vicinity, most childcare options are general, licensed programs. For faith-based education, you may find in-home providers or small centers affiliated with local churches. For specialized services like speech therapy or occupational therapy for children with special needs, you would typically coordinate those through the **Jefferson County Educational Service Center** or seek centers in larger neighboring towns that have staff trained in inclusion practices. Always discuss your child's specific needs directly with a provider to see if they can accommodate them.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare facility in Stratton?
When touring a daycare in Stratton, go beyond the basics. First, observe the **staff-child interactions**—are caregivers engaged and responsive? Check for **cleanliness and safety**: covered electrical outlets, secure gates, and clean diapering/feeding areas. Ask about their **daily schedule**, nutrition (are meals provided?), and outdoor play opportunities. Inquire about staff qualifications and turnover rates—consistency is key. Given Ohio's weather, ask about their **sick policy and emergency procedures**. Finally, trust your instincts about the overall atmosphere. Is it a warm, welcoming environment where children seem happy and busy? Don't hesitate to ask for references from other Stratton-area parents.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Stratton: