The Best Daycare Centers in Worthington, WV
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Worthington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Worthington
Kidz Corner Daycare & Learning Center
Independent
Kidz Corner Daycare & Learning Center serves the Worthington area with a comprehensive educational approach focusing on early childhood development. The center features a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. All teachers hold early childhood education certifications and maintain low teacher-to-child ratios. The facility includes secure indoor learning environments, age-appropriate outdoor playgrounds, and modern safety systems including coded entry and comprehensive monitoring. Parents consistently praise the center's nurturing environment, regular communication through daily reports, and the staff's dedication to each child's individual development.
Daycare Services:
Stepping Stones Early Learning Center
Independent
Stepping Stones Early Learning Center provides high-quality childcare services to families in Worthington and surrounding communities with a research-based curriculum that emphasizes school readiness. The center utilizes the Creative Curriculum system, integrating literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies into daily activities. Certified early childhood educators maintain small class sizes and individualized attention. Safety features include secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and regular safety drills. The center is noted for its inclusive environment, nutritious meal program, and strong parent-teacher partnerships that support children's developmental milestones.
Daycare Services:
Little Learners Academy
Independent
Little Learners Academy serves Worthington area families with a developmental approach to early childhood education that balances structured learning with creative exploration. The curriculum focuses on language development, cognitive skills, and physical development through hands-on activities and thematic units. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the center maintains excellent staff retention rates. The facility features bright, well-equipped classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and comprehensive health and safety protocols. Parents particularly appreciate the center's transparent communication, developmental progress tracking, and the warm, family-like atmosphere that helps children thrive.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Worthington, WV
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Worthington, WV, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In West Virginia, all childcare centers and family childcare homes serving more than four unrelated children must be licensed by the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR), Bureau for Children and Families. This licensing ensures facilities meet state standards for health, safety, staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training), and physical environment. To verify a provider in Worthington is licensed, you can use the official "Child Care Search" tool on the WV DHHR website or contact the Northern Panhandle regional DHHR office directly. It's highly recommended to always check this status, as it is your primary assurance of regulated care.
How much does full-time daycare typically cost for an infant or toddler in Worthington, WV?
In Worthington and the surrounding Ohio Valley area, daycare costs are generally more affordable than in larger metropolitan areas, but can vary based on the type of care. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay approximately $120 to $180 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. Licensed family childcare homes may range from $100 to $150 per week. Costs are influenced by factors like the facility's amenities, staff credentials, and included services (e.g., meals, curriculum). It's important to ask what the weekly fee includes and if there are additional costs for supplies, registration, or late pick-up fees.
Are there any state or local programs in Worthington that can help me pay for childcare?
Yes, eligible families in Worthington can apply for financial assistance through the West Virginia Child Care Program (WVCCP), which is managed by the DHHR. This subsidy program helps low to moderate-income working families, those in job training, or parents pursuing education afford licensed childcare. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. You can apply through your local DHHR office serving Ohio County. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships, so it's always worth inquiring directly with daycare centers about any available financial support options.
What is the typical waitlist situation for daycare centers in Worthington, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to the smaller number of licensed facilities in a town like Worthington, waitlists for infant care, in particular, can be common and may range from a few months to over a year. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during your second trimester of pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before your needed start date. For toddler or preschool spots, waitlists may be shorter but still exist. When contacting providers, ask specifically about their current waitlist length, the process for securing a spot (e.g., deposit), and how often they update families on their position.
What types of childcare settings are most commonly available in Worthington, and what are the key differences?
In Worthington, parents typically find two main types of licensed settings: childcare centers and family childcare homes. **Childcare Centers** are dedicated facilities, often with multiple classrooms divided by age, structured educational curricula, and multiple staff members. They may have more resources and set operating hours. **Family Childcare Homes** are operated out of a provider's residence, offering a smaller, home-like environment with mixed-age groups, which can be beneficial for siblings. They often provide more flexible hours. Your choice depends on your child's needs, your schedule, and the environment you prefer. Given Worthington's size, exploring options in nearby communities like Triadelphia, Wheeling, or Moundsville may also be necessary to find the right fit.