The Best Preschools in Dover, OH
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Dover. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
The Goddard School of Dover
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Dover is a highly-rated early childhood education center offering play-based learning with a structured curriculum. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems, keypad entry, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program focuses on academic, social, and emotional development through hands-on activities. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The school maintains small class sizes with low student-teacher ratios and offers enrichment programs including Spanish, yoga, and music.
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Small Wonders Learning Center
Independent
Small Wonders Learning Center has served the Dover community for over two decades with a reputation for quality early childhood education. The center holds a 4-star rating in Ohio's Step Up To Quality program and emphasizes developmental appropriateness in their curriculum. Their program includes literacy development, STEM activities, and social-emotional learning. The facility features secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. Parent communication is emphasized through daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences.
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Little Blessings Childcare & Preschool
Independent
Little Blessings provides Christian-based early childhood education in downtown Dover, integrating faith-based values with academic preparation. The center holds a 3-star Step Up To Quality rating and offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes phonics, mathematics, science, and Bible stories. Safety features include secure entry systems, comprehensive staff training, and regular facility inspections. The teaching staff maintains low child-to-teacher ratios and focuses on individualized attention. The program emphasizes character development alongside academic readiness for kindergarten.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Dover, OH:
What is the average cost of preschool in Dover, Ohio, and are there any local assistance programs?
In Dover, tuition for licensed preschool programs typically ranges from $150 to $250 per week, depending on the program's schedule and curriculum. For financial assistance, families can apply for Ohio's publicly funded Early Childhood Education grants, and the Dover area Head Start program offers income-eligible slots. It's also worth contacting individual church-affiliated preschools, as they sometimes offer sliding scale tuition.
How can I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Dover?
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 on the ODJFS website. Additionally, many quality programs in Tuscarawas County pursue a voluntary rating through Ohio's Step Up To Quality (SUTQ) system, which is a reliable indicator of a structured, educational environment.
What are the common preschool schedule options available for families in Dover?
Dover preschools typically offer flexible scheduling to accommodate working families. Common options include half-day programs (2-3 hours, mornings or afternoons), full-day care that aligns with a workday, and 2, 3, or 5-day-a-week models. Several local centers, including those affiliated with the Dover City Schools' early learning initiatives, provide before- and after-care wraparound services.
Are there preschools in Dover that offer specialized curricula or approaches?
Yes, Dover has a variety of educational approaches. You can find play-based, faith-based (often Lutheran or Methodist), and Montessori-inspired programs. The Dover City Schools' integrated preschool program may offer services for children with developmental delays alongside typically developing peers, providing an inclusive model. It's best to visit and ask specifically about their pedagogical philosophy.
What should I look for regarding safety and facilities when touring a Dover preschool?
Prioritize centers with secure, controlled access points and clear sign-in/sign-out procedures. During your tour, check that outdoor play areas are fully fenced and that indoor spaces are clean, well-lit, and free of obvious hazards. Inquire about staff training in pediatric first aid/CPR and the school's specific emergency plans for severe weather, which is relevant for Ohio's tornado season.
Looking for More Options?
Explore preschools in other cities across Ohio or search our full directory of early learning centers nationwide.