The Best Preschools in Cardington, OH
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Cardington. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
Cardington Head Start
Community Action Organization of Delaware, Madison & Union Counties
Cardington Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education and family support services to income-eligible families in Morrow County. The program focuses on school readiness through developmentally appropriate practices, offering educational, health, nutritional, and social services. With qualified early childhood educators and small class sizes, they maintain strong safety protocols and individualized learning approaches. The facility serves children ages 3-5 with a curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development.
Programs Offered:
Bright Beginnings Preschool & Childcare
Independent
Located just 8 miles from Cardington in Mount Gilead, Bright Beginnings is a highly-rated private preschool and childcare center serving Morrow County families. The facility features a structured academic preschool program combined with play-based learning, focusing on kindergarten readiness skills. With certified early childhood educators and low student-teacher ratios, they provide individualized attention and maintain excellent safety records. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, comprehensive curriculum, and strong communication between staff and families.
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The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
While located in Delaware (approximately 20 miles from Cardington), The Goddard School serves families throughout the central Ohio region with their nationally recognized F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience). This facility offers a play-based curriculum that balances academic preparation with social development, featuring STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. The school maintains high safety standards with secured access, comprehensive teacher training, and modern facilities. As part of a premium early childhood education network, they provide consistent quality and comprehensive developmental tracking.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Cardington, OH:
What are the typical costs for preschool programs in Cardington, Ohio?
In Cardington, preschool costs vary by program type. Publicly funded programs through the Cardington-Lincoln Local School District are often low-cost or free for income-eligible families, while private in-home or center-based preschools may range from $100 to $200 per week. It's important to inquire about registration fees and whether supplies are included in the tuition.
How do I find licensed and quality preschools in Cardington?
Start by checking the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) online database for licensed providers in the Cardington zip code (43315). Additionally, the Cardington-Lincoln Elementary School may offer a state-rated preschool program, and local parents often recommend options through community Facebook groups or by contacting the Morrow County Board of Developmental Disabilities for referrals.
What are the enrollment timelines and age requirements for Cardington preschools?
Most preschools in Cardington follow a traditional school year, with enrollment opening in early spring for the following fall. Children typically must be 3 or 4 years old by a specified date, often August 1st or September 30th, to enroll. For district programs, contact Cardington-Lincoln Elementary directly, as spots can be limited and may have earlier deadlines.
Are there preschools in Cardington that offer flexible schedules or full-day care?
Yes, options exist. While some school-district programs may offer half-day sessions, several licensed family childcare homes and centers in and around Cardington provide full-day care to accommodate working parents. Be sure to ask about specific hours, as some programs may align with the public school schedule, while others operate on a longer daycare timetable.
What should I look for regarding safety and curriculum when touring a Cardington preschool?
Verify the provider's current Ohio licensing and inspection reports are posted. Look for a clean, secure environment with clear procedures for drop-off/pick-up. Ask about their curriculum approach; many Cardington programs incorporate play-based learning and early literacy to align with Ohio's Early Learning and Development Standards, preparing children for kindergarten at Cardington-Lincoln Elementary.
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across Ohio or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.