The Best Daycare Centers in Waterford, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Waterford. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Waterford
Waterford Elementary Preschool
Wolf Creek Local School District
Waterford Elementary Preschool operates as part of the Wolf Creek Local School District, offering a comprehensive early childhood education program focused on school readiness. The program emphasizes literacy development, social skills, and cognitive growth through play-based learning and structured activities. Certified early childhood educators provide instruction with low student-teacher ratios, ensuring individualized attention. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play areas, and access to school resources. The program follows Ohio's Early Learning and Development Standards and maintains strong parent-teacher communication through regular updates and conferences.
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The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
Located in nearby Marietta, The Goddard School serves families throughout the Waterford area with a premier early childhood education program. The facility features purpose-built classrooms, secure entry systems, and modern learning environments. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) balances academic readiness with social-emotional development through play-based learning. All teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The school offers enrichment programs including Spanish, yoga, and music, along with nutritious meal programs and extensive safety protocols including secured facilities and comprehensive background checks for staff.
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Kiddie Academy of Marietta
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Marietta provides educational childcare services to Waterford area families with their proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, and STEM education. The center features secure, technology-enhanced classrooms, age-appropriate learning centers, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Their highly qualified staff includes teachers with early childhood degrees and certifications, maintaining optimal teacher-to-child ratios. The academy emphasizes health and safety with rigorous cleaning protocols, secure access systems, and comprehensive emergency preparedness plans. Parent communication is maintained through daily reports and a dedicated mobile app.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Waterford, OH
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Waterford, Ohio, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Waterford, Ohio, all childcare centers and family childcare homes must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). These licenses ensure providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training), and program curriculum. To verify the license status and review any past inspection reports for a provider in the Waterford area, you can use the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool on the ODJFS website. This public database is crucial for parents to confirm a facility is in good standing and has no serious violations, providing peace of mind in your selection process.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Waterford, OH?
The cost of childcare in Waterford and surrounding Washington County is generally more affordable than in major Ohio cities, but it varies by provider type. For a licensed childcare center, full-time infant care typically ranges from **$130 to $180 per week**. For toddlers, the cost is slightly lower, often between **$120 and $160 per week**. In-home family childcare providers may offer rates at the lower end of this scale. It's important to note that these are average estimates; prices can differ based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and meal provisions. We recommend contacting providers directly for their current rates and inquiring about any available slots, as availability in smaller communities like Waterford can be limited.
Are there any state or local programs in Waterford that help with childcare costs for low to moderate-income families?
Yes, eligible families in Waterford can apply for assistance through the **Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) Child Care Assistance Program**. This state-administered program helps low-income families, those participating in work or training activities, and in some cases, students, pay for childcare at licensed or certified providers. The assistance is based on income, family size, and need. Applications are processed through the **Washington 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 during your search.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Waterford, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the limited number of licensed childcare facilities in a small town like Waterford, waitlists can be common, especially for infant rooms which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. It is not unusual for popular centers to have waitlists of **3 to 6 months or longer**. We strongly recommend that parents begin their search and get on waitlists **as early as possible during pregnancy or at least 6 months before their needed start date**. Be proactive: contact multiple providers, ask detailed questions about their waitlist process (e.g., if there's a fee to hold a spot), and stay in touch periodically for updates.
What are some key factors to consider when touring a daycare facility in Waterford, beyond the basic licensing?
When touring a potential daycare in Waterford, look for signs of a quality, engaging, and safe environment. Key local factors to assess include: **Staff retention and qualifications**—low turnover and caregivers with credentials in early childhood education indicate stability. **Outdoor play space**—given Waterford's rural setting, a secure, well-maintained outdoor area is a major plus. **Emergency preparedness**—ask about their plan for severe weather common to Southeastern Ohio and procedures for communication with parents. **Daily routines and curriculum**—look for a balance of structured learning and free play. Finally, trust your instincts on the overall warmth and cleanliness of the environment and how the caregivers interact with the children.