The Best Daycare Centers in Westfield Center, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Westfield Center. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Westfield Center
The Goddard School of Medina
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Medina offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Their state-licensed teachers implement play-based learning in secure, modern classrooms with age-appropriate learning centers. The facility features secure entry systems, comprehensive safety protocols, and spacious outdoor playgrounds. Curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, arts, and physical development with daily communication to parents through the Goddard Connect app. Highly qualified staff with degrees in early childhood education provide individualized attention with low student-teacher ratios.
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Primrose School of Medina
Primrose School Franchising Company
Primrose School of Medina provides Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from educated teachers. Their research-based curriculum includes character development, literacy, math, science, and creative arts in a safe, secure environment. The school features secure keypad entry, comprehensive background checks for staff, and sanitization protocols. Certified teachers deliver age-appropriate instruction with emphasis on social skills and school readiness. Facilities include dedicated age-specific playgrounds, music room, and modern classrooms with interactive technology. Parent communication includes daily reports and regular developmental updates.
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Kiddie Academy of Brunswick
Kiddie Academy International
Kiddie Academy of Brunswick offers Life Essentials® curriculum that promotes cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development through hands-on learning experiences. Their educated teachers create engaging lesson plans aligned with Ohio Early Learning Standards in secure, technology-enhanced classrooms. The academy features secured entry systems, emergency preparedness protocols, and health screening procedures. Developmentally appropriate learning centers include literacy, math, science, and dramatic play areas. Comprehensive communication with parents includes daily activity reports, photos, and regular parent-teacher conferences. Additional programs include character education, Spanish exposure, and technology integration.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Westfield Center, OH
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Westfield Center, Ohio, and how can I verify a center is compliant?
In Westfield Center, Ohio, all childcare centers and family childcare homes must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). Key requirements include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:8 for toddlers), background checks for all employees, health and safety training, and regular facility inspections. To verify a provider's compliance, you can use the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool on the ODJFS website, which shows the license status, inspection reports, and any cited violations. You can also contact the local licensing office for the Northeast Ohio region for specific inquiries about providers in the Westfield Center area.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Westfield Center, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Westfield Center and the surrounding Medina County area, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from **$900 to $1,200 per month**, while toddler care averages **$800 to $1,100 per month**. Costs can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum, and staff credentials. For financial assistance, Ohio's **Publicly Funded Child Care (PFCC)** program, administered through the Medina County Department of Job and Family Services, helps eligible families based on income and need. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's important to inquire directly.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Westfield Center, and what strategies can I use to secure a spot?
Yes, due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, many reputable daycare centers in Westfield Center and nearby communities like Medina or Brunswick have waitlists that can be **3 to 12 months long**. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before you need care. Contact multiple centers to get on their lists, and consider both centers and licensed in-home providers for more options. Follow up periodically to express continued interest. Some centers may also prioritize families with siblings already enrolled, so if you have an older child, mention that.
What types of childcare options are available in Westfield Center besides traditional daycare centers?
Beyond licensed childcare centers, Westfield Center offers several alternatives. These include **licensed family childcare homes** (smaller, home-based settings often with mixed-age groups), **preschool programs** (often part-day, typically for ages 3-5), and **nanny shares** with other local families. Given Westfield Center's smaller, community-oriented nature, networking through local parent groups on social media or community boards can help find trusted in-home providers. Additionally, some nearby employers in Medina or Akron may offer employer-sponsored childcare referrals or partnerships.
How does the seasonal weather in Westfield Center, Ohio, impact daycare operations and what should parents ask about?
Westfield Center experiences all four seasons, with cold, snowy winters and warm summers, which can affect daycare operations. Parents should ask providers about their **inclement weather policies** (e.g., closures for snow emergencies, delay schedules), **outdoor play policies** (e.g., required clothing for winter, shade and hydration in summer), and **transportation safety** if the center offers pick-up/drop-off. Many centers follow the local school district's (often Highland Local Schools) delay or closure announcements. Ensuring the facility has safe, cleared walkways in winter and adequate cooling in summer is also important for your child's safety.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Westfield Center: