The Best Daycare Centers in Winona, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Winona. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Winona
The Learning Tree
Independent
The Learning Tree is Winona's premier locally-owned childcare center offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. Their play-based curriculum focuses on social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM activities tailored to each age group. The center features certified early childhood educators with low student-teacher ratios, secure entry systems, and nutritious meal programs. Their outdoor learning environment includes nature exploration areas and age-appropriate playgrounds. Parents consistently praise the warm, family-like atmosphere and strong communication from experienced staff who have been with the center for many years.
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Kiddie Academy of Salem
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Salem serves the Winona area with their nationally recognized Life Essentials® curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including coded entry, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and real-time parent communication through their mobile app. Their highly qualified teachers hold early childhood education credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. The facility includes dedicated learning centers for literacy, math, science, and creative arts, plus secure outdoor play areas with age-appropriate equipment.
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Primrose School of Canfield
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Canfield provides premium early education and care services to families in the Winona region with their Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance. The school features highly educated teachers with bachelor's degrees in early childhood education, comprehensive safety protocols including secure video monitoring, and exclusive partnerships with organizations like The Juilliard School for music curriculum. Their facility includes dedicated art studios, music rooms, and innovative outdoor classrooms that encourage exploration and physical development. Parents consistently report exceptional communication and visible developmental progress in their children.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Winona, OH
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Winona, Ohio, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In Ohio, all childcare providers caring for more than six children at one time must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). This includes family childcare homes (7-12 children) and childcare centers. Licensed providers in Winona must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training in first aid, CPR, and child abuse prevention), safe environments, and health and safety practices. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the **Ohio Child Care Search** tool on the ODJFS website. You can search by provider name, location (like Winona, OH), or license number to view their current license status, any inspection reports, and compliance history. This is a crucial first step for any parent in the Winona area.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Winona, Ohio?
Childcare costs in Winona and the surrounding Columbiana County area are generally more affordable than in major Ohio cities, but can still be a significant expense. For full-time care (approximately 40-50 hours per week), parents can expect to pay an average of **$130 to $180 per week** for an infant or toddler at a licensed in-home daycare. Licensed childcare centers in the region may range from **$160 to $220 per week**. These are estimates, and prices can vary based on the provider's amenities, curriculum, and staff credentials. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate (e.g., meals, diapers, formula). For financial assistance, Ohio offers the **Publicly Funded Child Care** program; eligibility is based on income, family size, and work/training requirements, and you can apply through the Columbiana County Department of Job and Family Services.
Are there long waitlists for daycare spots in Winona, and what can I do to secure a spot for my child?
While Winona is a smaller community, quality licensed daycare options can have limited availability, especially for infants, leading to potential waitlists. It is highly recommended to begin your search **at least 3-6 months before you need care**. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current availability and waitlist process. To improve your chances, consider being flexible with your start date, exploring both in-home providers and centers in nearby towns like Salem or Lisbon, and getting on multiple waitlists (there is typically no fee for this). Be proactive—follow up every few weeks to express continued interest. Building a relationship with the provider can sometimes move you up the list.
What types of childcare programs are most commonly available in Winona, Ohio?
Winona, being a small, rural community, primarily offers **licensed family childcare homes**. These are typically run out of a provider's residence and offer a smaller, more home-like setting for a mixed-age group of up to 12 children. This is often the most accessible and common option locally. For center-based care with structured preschool curricula, parents may need to look in larger nearby towns such as **Salem or East Liverpool**. Some local churches or community organizations may also offer part-day preschool programs for older toddlers and preschoolers. Due to the rural setting, specialized care options (like 24-hour care or care for children with significant special needs) are very limited and would likely require seeking services in a larger county hub.
What local resources or organizations in Columbiana County can help me find and evaluate childcare options in Winona?
The primary resource for parents in Winona is the **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) service provided by OHIOHELPS**. You can contact them at 1-877-852-0010 or visit their website to get a free, personalized referral list of licensed providers in your specific area, including Winona and Columbiana County. They can also provide guidance on what to look for during a visit and explain state subsidies. Additionally, the **Columbiana County Health Department** can provide information on required immunizations and general child health resources. For on-the-ground insights, connecting with other parents through local community Facebook groups (e.g., "Winona, OH Community" or "Columbiana County Parents") can offer valuable personal recommendations and experiences with local providers.