The Best Daycare Centers in Union Furnace, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Union Furnace. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Union Furnace
The Goddard School of Logan
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Logan offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and physical development with low student-to-teacher ratios. All teachers are highly qualified with ongoing professional development, and the facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. The school emphasizes character development and social skills while maintaining rigorous health and safety protocols.
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Kiddie Academy of Lancaster
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Lancaster provides comprehensive educational childcare with their Life Essentials® curriculum that integrates character education, technology, and hands-on learning. The academy features state-licensed teachers with early childhood education credentials, secure facility access, and developmentally appropriate learning centers. Their program includes nutritious meal plans, regular progress reports, and enrichment activities. The center maintains excellent staff retention rates and focuses on creating a nurturing environment that supports cognitive, social, and emotional development.
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Creative Beginnings Child Care & Learning Center
Independent
Creative Beginnings is a locally-owned childcare center serving the Hocking County area with a play-based learning approach that incorporates Ohio's Early Learning Standards. The center features experienced early childhood educators, small class sizes, and a comprehensive curriculum including literacy development, mathematics, science exploration, and creative arts. Their facility includes secure monitored access, age-specific playgrounds, and well-equipped classrooms. The center is known for its family-oriented atmosphere, consistent staff, and strong emphasis on individualized attention and developmental milestone tracking.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Union Furnace, OH
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Union Furnace, Ohio, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Union Furnace, as in all of Ohio, childcare providers must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) unless they are legally exempt (like certain in-home care for a limited number of children). Licensed centers and family childcare homes must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training in CPR, first aid, and child development), safe environments, and health and safety practices. To verify a provider's license and inspection history, you can use the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool online or contact the ODJFS Office for Hocking County. It's crucial to check this, as Union Furnace is a small community where informal care is common, but licensed care offers regulated safety and quality assurances.
Given Union Furnace's rural location, what types of childcare options are typically available, and are waitlists a common issue?
In rural Union Furnace and the surrounding Hocking County area, options are more limited than in urban centers. You will primarily find licensed **family childcare homes** (in a provider's residence) and possibly a small **childcare center** if one operates locally. Many families also use **in-home nannies or babysitters** or rely on **relative care**. Due to the limited number of slots, especially for infants and toddlers, waitlists can be common and lengthy at the most sought-after providers. It's highly recommended to begin your search during pregnancy or several months in advance. Expanding your search to nearby towns like Logan or Nelsonville may increase options but will add commute time.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in the Union Furnace area?
Costs in Hocking County are generally lower than state averages but vary by type of care. For a licensed **family childcare home** in the Union Furnace area, you might expect to pay between **$120 - $180 per week** for full-time infant/toddler care. A **licensed childcare center** in a nearby town like Logan could range from **$150 - $220 per week**. These are estimates; always get direct quotes. Financial assistance is available for eligible families through the **Ohio Department of Job and Family Services' Publicly Funded Child Care program**. You can apply through the Hocking County Job and Family Services office to see if you qualify for subsidies based on income and need.
Are there any state or local programs in Ohio that help parents in Union Furnace find and afford quality childcare?
Yes, Ohio offers several key programs. The **Ohio Child Care Search** tool is the primary resource for finding licensed providers. For affordability, the **Publicly Funded Child Care** subsidy helps income-eligible families. Additionally, all families can benefit from the **Ohio Early Learning and Development Standards**, which ensure licensed programs follow a curriculum framework. While Union Furnace itself may not have dedicated local referral agencies, the **Hocking County Early Childhood Advisory Committee** and **Hocking County Job and Family Services** are vital local contacts for resources and application assistance. They can guide you to available slots and support programs in the region.
What should I look for during a tour of a daycare or home-based childcare in a small community like Union Furnace?
When touring in a small community, personal rapport and specific local adaptations are key. Look for: 1. **Ohio license** visibly posted and current. 2. **Safety plans** for rural-specific issues, like severe weather response or proximity to emergency services. 3. **Clean, secure, and stimulating environment** with age-appropriate toys and outdoor play space. 4. **Daily schedule and curriculum** that includes activities beyond free play. 5. **Communication style**—ask how they provide updates and handle concerns. In a tight-knit area, ask for references from other local parents. Trust your instincts about the caregiver's warmth and engagement, as options may be few, but quality is paramount.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Union Furnace: