The Best Daycare Centers in Youngstown, OH
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Youngstown. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Youngstown
St. John's Early Childhood Center
St. John's Episcopal Church
St. John's Early Childhood Center operates as a ministry of St. John's Episcopal Church with a strong focus on developmental education and Christian values. The center features a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates STEAM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios. The facility includes secure classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and a dedicated infant wing with separate nap and feeding areas. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, experienced staff, and comprehensive communication about child development progress.
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The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Youngstown follows the nationally recognized Goddard Early Learning Framework that emphasizes play-based learning while preparing children for academic success. The curriculum includes language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and creative arts with daily enrichment activities like yoga, music, and Spanish. The facility features secure keypad entry, CCTV monitoring, and sanitization protocols. All teachers are trained in early childhood development and CPR/first aid certified. The school is known for its modern classrooms, large outdoor play spaces, and strong parent-teacher communication through daily activity reports and regular progress updates.
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Primrose School of Boardman
Primrose Schools
Located just minutes from Youngstown in Boardman, Primrose School offers the exclusive Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The curriculum focuses on character development, literacy, STEM concepts, and creative expression through their proprietary programs. The state-of-the-art facility includes secure entry systems, age-specific learning environments, and multiple outdoor playgrounds. Staff members hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. Parents consistently rate this center highly for its structured yet engaging learning environment, nutritious meal program, and exceptional communication about child development milestones.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Youngstown, OH
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Youngstown, Ohio, and are there any local assistance programs?
In Youngstown, Ohio, the cost of full-time daycare varies significantly based on the child's age and the type of facility. For an infant, you can expect to pay between $700 and $1,000 per month at a licensed center, while toddler care typically ranges from $600 to $850 per month. Home-based daycare is often more affordable, averaging $500 to $750 monthly. These costs are generally lower than the state average, reflecting the local cost of living. Financial assistance is available through the Mahoning County Department of Job and Family Services, which administers the state's publicly funded childcare program. Eligibility is based on income, work, or school requirements. Additionally, some local centers offer sliding scale fees or scholarships, so it's always worth inquiring directly.
How do I verify a daycare's licensing and inspection history in Youngstown?
All childcare providers in Ohio must be licensed or certified by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). To verify a provider in Youngstown, you can use the online "Child Care Search" tool on the ODJFS website. This tool allows you to search by provider name, location, or type and will show their current license status, capacity, and age ranges served. Crucially, it also provides access to recent inspection reports, which detail any compliance issues or violations. For a more local perspective, you can also contact the Mahoning County Children Services or ask the daycare director directly to see their most recent state inspection summary, which they are required to post in a visible location for parents.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Youngstown, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Waitlists are common for infant and toddler spots at highly-rated daycare centers in Youngstown, particularly those affiliated with employers like Mercy Health or Youngstown State University, or centers with high Step Up To Quality ratings. For these in-demand programs, it's advisable to start your search and get on a waitlist at least 6 to 9 months before your needed start date, and sometimes even during pregnancy. For preschool-age children (3-5 years), availability is generally better, but starting your search 3-4 months in advance is still prudent. Many smaller, licensed home daycares may have shorter or no waitlists, offering a good alternative. Always call multiple providers to gauge current availability in your specific neighborhood.
What is Ohio's "Step Up To Quality" rating system, and why is it important when choosing a daycare in Youngstown?
Step Up To Quality (SUTQ) is Ohio's voluntary quality rating and improvement system for early care and education programs. Daycares and preschools earn a rating from 1 to 5 stars based on staff qualifications, professional development, learning environments, family engagement, and administrative practices. In Youngstown, choosing a SUTQ-rated program is highly beneficial. These programs often provide a more structured, educational environment and their staff receive ongoing training. Furthermore, only SUTQ-rated providers (3-star or higher) are eligible to accept state childcare subsidies, and many employers offer referral preferences or discounts for these programs. You can filter for SUTQ ratings using the state's Child Care Search tool to find quality options in your area.
Beyond traditional daycares, what are some unique or community-based childcare options available in Youngstown?
Youngstown offers several community-focused childcare alternatives. The Youngstown City School District operates high-quality, tuition-based preschool programs in several elementary schools, which provide a structured pre-K curriculum. The Jewish Community Center of Youngstown offers early childhood education programs open to all faiths. For flexible or non-traditional hours, some licensed family childcare homes may offer evening or weekend care to accommodate shift workers common in the local healthcare and manufacturing sectors. Additionally, organizations like the Oh Wow! The Roger & Gloria Jones Children's Center for Science & Technology occasionally offer seasonal or part-day educational programs that can supplement other care arrangements. Exploring these options can provide a more tailored fit for your family's schedule and values.