The Best Preschools in Smithfield, OH
Discover 3 top-rated preschools and early learning centers in Smithfield. Compare programs, read reviews, and find the perfect early childhood education for your child.
KinderCare Learning Center - Steubenville
KinderCare Education
KinderCare Learning Center in Steubenville is a highly-rated early education facility serving Smithfield and surrounding areas. It offers a research-based curriculum focused on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center maintains strong safety protocols, including secured entry and trained staff, and emphasizes teacher qualifications with ongoing professional development. Parent reviews highlight consistent communication, engaging activities, and a nurturing environment that prepares children for kindergarten.
Programs Offered:
The Goddard School - Steubenville
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Steubenville is a premier early learning center known for its play-based learning approach and high educational standards. It features a F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum that promotes cognitive, physical, and social development through structured and unstructured play. The school prioritizes safety with strict hygiene practices and low student-teacher ratios. Parents report high satisfaction with the qualified educators, individualized attention, and well-rounded programs that foster creativity and independence.
Programs Offered:
Jefferson County Child Development Center
Community Action Council of Jefferson County
The Jefferson County Child Development Center is a well-established facility providing comprehensive early childhood services to Smithfield and Jefferson County families. It offers federally funded Head Start and Early Head Start programs with a focus on school readiness, health, and nutrition. The center emphasizes inclusive education and family engagement, with trained staff supporting diverse learning needs. Reviews commend its safe, supportive environment, strong community ties, and effective preparation of children for elementary school.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about preschools in Smithfield, OH:
What is the typical cost of preschool in Smithfield, OH, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Smithfield and the surrounding Jefferson County area, preschool costs typically range from $100 to $250 per week, depending on the program's schedule and curriculum. For financial assistance, families should inquire directly with individual centers about potential sliding scale fees and also check their eligibility for the state-funded Early Childhood Education (ECE) grant or Ohio's publicly funded Preschool Promise program, which may have participating providers locally.
How can I verify the quality and licensing of a preschool in Smithfield?
All licensed preschools in Ohio, including those in Smithfield, 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, you can ask the director if they participate in Ohio's voluntary quality rating system, Step Up To Quality (SUTQ), which indicates a higher standard of programming.
What are the common preschool schedule options available in Smithfield?
Given Smithfield's smaller, rural community setting, common options often include part-day programs (e.g., 2-3 mornings or afternoons per week) and some full-day care options to support working families. Many local programs, including those affiliated with the Buckeye Local School District or community churches, may follow a traditional school-year calendar rather than offering year-round care.
Are there any unique local considerations for preschools in Smithfield, such as transportation?
Due to its rural location, most preschools in Smithfield do not provide transportation services; parents are typically responsible for drop-off and pick-up. It's important to consider the travel distance to potential preschools, especially during Ohio's winter weather. Some families may find more options or different program types by looking in nearby larger towns like Dillonvale or Steubenville.
What types of preschool programs are most common in Smithfield?
The most common types are often faith-based preschools operated by local churches and home-based licensed childcare programs that include preschool curriculum. There may also be preschool classrooms within broader childcare centers. Given the community size, there are typically fewer large, corporate chain preschools, with a focus on smaller, community-oriented settings.
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