The Best Preschools in Ashland, OH
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Ashland. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Ashland University Child Development Center
Ashland University
The Ashland University Child Development Center is a highly-regarded facility operated by Ashland University's College of Education. It serves as a lab school for early childhood education students, ensuring a research-based curriculum and well-trained staff. The center emphasizes play-based learning, social-emotional development, and school readiness, with a low student-to-teacher ratio for individualized attention. Safety is a top priority, with secure facilities and rigorous background checks for all employees. Parent satisfaction is high due to its nurturing environment and strong communication with families.
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KinderCare Learning Center at Mansfield
KinderCare Education
This KinderCare location in nearby Mansfield is a trusted option for families in the Ashland area, offering a comprehensive early learning curriculum focused on literacy, math, and science. The center maintains high safety standards with secured entry systems and trained staff in CPR and first aid. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education, and the program includes enrichment activities like music and physical education. Parents appreciate the consistent communication and positive learning environment, contributing to its strong ratings and reviews.
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The Goddard School of Wooster
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Wooster is a premier early childhood education center serving the broader region, including Ashland. It features a play-based learning approach aligned with state standards, promoting cognitive, social, and physical development. The school boasts modern facilities with safety protocols like keypad entry and regular drills. Highly qualified teachers engage children in STEAM activities and language arts, leading to excellent parent satisfaction and school readiness outcomes. Its longevity and consistent high ratings make it a top choice for families seeking quality care.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Ashland, OH:
What is the average cost of preschool in Ashland, Ohio, and are there any financial assistance programs available?
In Ashland, monthly preschool tuition typically ranges from $150 to $300, depending on the program's schedule and type (e.g., church-based, private, or public). For financial assistance, families should inquire directly with individual preschools about potential scholarships and also check eligibility for Ohio's publicly funded Early Childhood Education programs, which may be available through the Ashland City Schools district or local Head Start providers.
How can I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Ashland?
All licensed preschools in Ohio are regulated by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). You can search for a provider's licensing inspection reports and any violations online through the ODJFS website. Additionally, many quality programs in Ashland participate in Ohio's voluntary Step Up To Quality (SUTQ) rating system, which is a key indicator of a program's educational standards.
What are the typical enrollment timelines and age requirements for Ashland preschools?
Most Ashland preschools begin their enrollment periods in January or February for the following fall semester, with some popular programs filling quickly. Age requirements are generally that a child must be 3 or 4 years old by a specific date, often August 1st or September 30th, aligning with Ohio's kindergarten cutoff; however, you should confirm the exact date with each individual school.
What types of preschool programs are commonly available in Ashland?
Ashland offers a variety of preschool settings, including faith-based programs at local churches, private preschool centers, and public preschool options through Ashland City Schools (often for qualifying students or via tuition). You'll also find programs with different schedules, such as half-day sessions 2-3 days per week or more extended full-day care options.
Are there preschools in Ashland that offer services for children with special needs?
Yes. Ashland City Schools provides preschool special education services for children ages 3-5 who qualify through an evaluation process. For private options, it's important to ask individual centers about their experience and capacity for inclusion. The Help Me Grow program through the Ashland County Board of Developmental Disabilities is also a vital local resource for early intervention support and guidance.
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across Ohio or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.