Youngstown, OH · Mahoning · Based on public reviews & parent communities

Finding the right childcare
in Youngstown, Ohio

Youngstown earned its nickname 'Steel Town' as a major center of American steel manufacturing from the 1920s through the 1960s, though the industry's sharp decline—marked by the devastating closure of the Youngstown Sheet and Tube Campbell works on September 19, 1977, known locally as 'Black Monday'—transformed the city into an iconic symbol of post-industrial American economic change. Today, Youngstown maintains its identity as a resilient Northeast Ohio community while preserving cultural landmarks like the Butler Institute of American Art, the nation's first museum dedicated exclusively to American art. We analyzed all 42 Ohio-licensed childcare centers in Youngstown, scoring each across 11 real dimensions from parent reviews and public records. No marketing copy — just what real families reported. We scored each Ohio-licensed childcare center across 11 real dimensions — safety, curriculum, arts & music, infant care, kindergarten readiness and more. Scores drawn from major public review platforms and parent communities — not center marketing.

42Centers reviewed
11Dimensions scored
1,000+Reviews analyzed
60,068City population
Sort by
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Score key
9–10 exceptional
7–8 strong
4–6 average or below

1
Potential Devleopment Program
880 E. Indianola Ave., Youngstown, OH 44502
Licensed Child Care Center
SUTQ: Gold
7.4/ 10
Safety
7
Curriculum
9
Art/Music
7
Infant care
4
K-ready
8
Teachers
9
Compassion
8
Mgmt
7
Culture
7
Class sizes
0
Extracurriculars
8

Strengths

  • Ohio Step Up To Quality rated: Gold - highest quality tier
  • Highly specialized autism school serving preschool through 12th grade since 2008
  • Uses evidence-based TEACCH Method - structured teaching tailored to autism learning profiles
  • Exceptional 4:1 student-to-teacher ratio (national average is 11:1) - intensive individual attention
  • Average class size of 7 students - very low-density classrooms
  • On-site occupational, physical, and speech therapy - comprehensive support in one location
  • Also offers art therapy, mental health services, and social skills groups led by certified professionals
  • Dedicated sensory room and indoor/outdoor recreation areas
  • No tuition - funded through Ohio Autism Scholarship and Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship
  • Extended 11-month academic year (mid-August to mid-July)
  • Multiple accreditations: NAEYC, NECPA, NACCP, COA, Cognia
  • Ohio PROMISE Program designation - staff trained for children with special needs
  • Full-time Transition Coordinator for real-world and career preparation
  • Parent testimonial on website: staff helped child reach important milestones; child wakes up excited for school

Considerations

  • Serves children with autism diagnosis and IEP only - not a general childcare option
  • Preschool starts at age 2.5 - no infant or early toddler care
  • Enrollment requires formal autism diagnosis and IEP from home school district
2
Jcc Early Learning Center
505 Gypsy Lane, Youngstown, OH 44505
★ 5 (2 Google)    ·  Licensed Child Care Center
SUTQ: Gold
6.9/ 10
Safety
5
Curriculum
9
Art/Music
8
Infant care
5
K-ready
6
Teachers
8
Compassion
6
Mgmt
8
Culture
8
Class sizes
0
Extracurriculars
6

Strengths

  • Perfect 5-star Google rating
  • Award-winning Creative Curriculum with structured learning goals
  • Enrichment programs: swim lessons, visual arts, music and movement
  • SUTQ Gold accreditation

Considerations

    3
    The Rich Center For Autism, Ysu
    1 University Plaza, Youngstown, OH 44555
    Autism Specialty Program · Licensed Child Care Center
    SUTQ: NR
    6.9/ 10
    Safety
    6
    Curriculum
    9
    Art/Music
    5
    Infant care
    5
    K-ready
    5
    Teachers
    9
    Compassion
    9
    Mgmt
    5
    Culture
    8
    Class sizes
    0
    Extracurriculars
    8

    Strengths

    • University-based autism specialty program at YSU — ABA therapy is the foundation of all services
    • Services provided at no cost to families regardless of ability to pay
    • Parents report children achieving milestones previously thought impossible — teachers described as fiercely dedicated advocates
    • Externally funded unit bridging university resources with educators, healthcare providers, and service agencies
    • Long-term family relationships: multiple testimonials from families enrolled 11-16 years

    Considerations

    • Specialized autism program — not a general childcare center; only appropriate for children with autism spectrum diagnoses
    4
    Alta Head Start Potential Development
    880 E. Indianola Ave., Youngstown, OH 44502
    Head Start · Licensed Child Care Center
    SUTQ: Gold
    6.7/ 10
    Safety
    6
    Curriculum
    8
    Art/Music
    6
    Infant care
    6
    K-ready
    7
    Teachers
    8
    Compassion
    7
    Mgmt
    7
    Culture
    5
    Class sizes
    0
    Extracurriculars
    7

    Strengths

    • Ohio Step Up To Quality: Gold (5-star) — Alta Head Start highest-rated tier
    • Majority of Lead Teachers hold Bachelor's Degrees in Early Childhood Education; Teacher Assistants hold at minimum a Child Development Associate (CDA)
    • Majority of Lead Teachers hold Ohio Resident Educator licenses
    • Free program for income-eligible Mahoning County families — includes free meals and health services (vision, dental)
    • Family Advocate assigned to each family; includes initial home visit and ongoing family engagement
    • Participates in federally funded Child Care Food Program (USDA nutrition standards); special needs child care available

    Considerations

    • January 2022 complaint inspection resulted in Partially Compliant status (corrective action completed January 5, 2022)
    • Employee reviews on Indeed cite management inconsistencies and favoritism as concerns at the organizational level
    5
    Alta Head Start Renaissance
    345 Oak Hill, Youngstown, OH 44502
    Head Start · Licensed Child Care Center
    SUTQ: Gold
    6.7/ 10
    Safety
    6
    Curriculum
    8
    Art/Music
    6
    Infant care
    6
    K-ready
    7
    Teachers
    8
    Compassion
    7
    Mgmt
    7
    Culture
    5
    Class sizes
    0
    Extracurriculars
    7

    Strengths

    • Ohio Step Up To Quality: Gold (5-star) — Alta Head Start highest-rated tier
    • Majority of Lead Teachers hold Bachelor's Degrees in Early Childhood Education; Teacher Assistants hold at minimum a Child Development Associate (CDA)
    • Majority of Lead Teachers hold Ohio Resident Educator licenses
    • Free program for income-eligible Mahoning/Trumbull County families — includes free meals and health services
    • Family Advocate assigned to each family with initial home visit and ongoing support
    • School readiness focus: teachers trained in academic and social-emotional development standards

    Considerations

    • Employee reviews on Indeed cite management inconsistencies and favoritism as concerns at the organizational level
    6
    Alta Head Start Ymca
    17 N. Champion St., Youngstown, OH 44503
    Head Start · Licensed Child Care Center
    SUTQ: Gold
    6.7/ 10
    Safety
    6
    Curriculum
    8
    Art/Music
    6
    Infant care
    6
    K-ready
    7
    Teachers
    8
    Compassion
    7
    Mgmt
    7
    Culture
    5
    Class sizes
    0
    Extracurriculars
    7

    Strengths

    • Ohio Step Up To Quality: Gold (5-star) — Alta Head Start highest-rated tier
    • Majority of Lead Teachers hold Bachelor's Degrees in Early Childhood Education; Teacher Assistants hold at minimum a Child Development Associate (CDA)
    • Majority of Lead Teachers hold Ohio Resident Educator licenses
    • Co-located with the YMCA of Youngstown (4.5-star community rating, 138 reviewers) — shared facility with established community organization
    • Free program for income-eligible Mahoning County families — includes free meals and health services (vision, dental)
    • Family Advocate assigned to each family with initial home visit and ongoing support

    Considerations

    • Employee reviews on Indeed cite management inconsistencies and favoritism as concerns at the organizational level
    7
    Alta Head Start Ysu
    1 University Plaza, Youngstown, OH 44555
    Head Start · Licensed Child Care Center
    SUTQ: Gold
    6.7/ 10
    Safety
    6
    Curriculum
    8
    Art/Music
    6
    Infant care
    6
    K-ready
    7
    Teachers
    8
    Compassion
    7
    Mgmt
    7
    Culture
    5
    Class sizes
    0
    Extracurriculars
    7

    Strengths

    • Ohio Step Up To Quality: Gold (5-star) — Alta Head Start highest-rated tier
    • Located on Youngstown State University campus in Beeghly Hall — serves as a laboratory learning experience for YSU students in early childhood, health, nutrition, and oral health programs
    • Enhanced on-site services: hearing, vision, and speech/language screenings; oral health care; nursing; mental health and behavioral support; early intervention services
    • Majority of Lead Teachers hold Bachelor's Degrees in Early Childhood Education; assistants hold at minimum a CDA
    • Free program for income-eligible Mahoning County families — includes free meals and all health services
    • Family Advocate assigned to each family with initial home visit

    Considerations

    • Employee reviews on Indeed cite management inconsistencies and favoritism as concerns at the organizational level
    8
    Eagle'S Christian Preschool & Child Care
    2733 Market Street, Youngstown, OH 44507
    Licensed Child Care Center
    SUTQ: Gold
    6.7/ 10
    Safety
    5
    Curriculum
    8
    Art/Music
    5
    Infant care
    5
    K-ready
    8
    Teachers
    8
    Compassion
    7
    Mgmt
    8
    Culture
    6
    Class sizes
    0
    Extracurriculars
    7

    Strengths

    • SUTQ Gold: 5-star state quality program
    • Non-profit with 60+ trained staff across multiple Youngstown locations
    • Full-time care ages 6 weeks to 12 years — meals, snacks, and bus transportation included
    • Founded 1998 — over 25 years serving Youngstown families

    Considerations

      9
      Tiny Faces Childcare
      211 Redondo Road, Youngstown, OH 44504
      ★ 3.8    ·  Licensed Child Care Center
      SUTQ: Gold
      6.6/ 10
      Safety
      7
      Curriculum
      8
      Art/Music
      5
      Infant care
      5
      K-ready
      6
      Teachers
      8
      Compassion
      7
      Mgmt
      8
      Culture
      6
      Class sizes
      0
      Extracurriculars
      6

      Strengths

      • Parents note welcoming atmosphere and cleanliness
      • After-school program praised for preparing children for school testing
      • Offers therapy programs for specialized needs alongside general childcare
      • Gold SUTQ rated; serves ages 6 weeks to 12 years

      Considerations

        10
        Alta Head Start Camp Challenge
        939 Wilkinson Ave, Youngstown, OH 44509
        Head Start · Licensed Child Care Center
        SUTQ: Gold
        6.5/ 10
        Safety
        6
        Curriculum
        8
        Art/Music
        6
        Infant care
        6
        K-ready
        7
        Teachers
        8
        Compassion
        6
        Mgmt
        7
        Culture
        5
        Class sizes
        0
        Extracurriculars
        6

        Strengths

        • Gold SUTQ rating - Alta highest-rated tier, meeting Ohio top quality benchmarks
        • Situated near Mill Creek Park, offering spacious outdoor environment for an urban Head Start site
        • Alta Head Start Lead Teachers hold Bachelor degrees in Early Childhood Education at above-average rates; CLASS scores above national average
        • Free meals, health screenings (vision, dental), and disability services included for eligible families

        Considerations

        • Inspection history shows Partially Compliant findings in December 2025 and October 2024; follow-up inspections confirmed resolution
        • Indeed employee reviews for Alta (3.4/5, 30 reviews) cite inconsistent management and high turnover, which may affect program consistency
        11
        Alta Head Start Millcreek Learning Center
        4570 Lockwood Blvd., Youngstown, OH 44512
        Head Start · Licensed Child Care Center
        SUTQ: Gold
        6.5/ 10
        Safety
        6
        Curriculum
        8
        Art/Music
        6
        Infant care
        6
        K-ready
        7
        Teachers
        8
        Compassion
        6
        Mgmt
        7
        Culture
        5
        Class sizes
        0
        Extracurriculars
        6

        Strengths

        • Gold SUTQ rating - Alta highest-rated tier, meeting Ohio top quality benchmarks
        • Alta Head Start Lead Teachers hold Bachelor degrees in ECE at above-average rates; CLASS scores above national average
        • Located on Lockwood Blvd in the Boardman-Millcreek corridor - more suburban setting than most Alta Youngstown sites
        • Free meals, health screenings (vision, dental), and disability services included for eligible families

        Considerations

        • Indeed employee reviews for Alta organization (3.4/5) flag management inconsistency and high turnover, which may affect day-to-day program consistency
        12
        Happy Campers Learning Center
        518 E .Indianola Ave., Youngstown, OH 44502
        ★ 4.4    ·  Licensed Child Care Center
        SUTQ: Gold
        6.5/ 10
        Safety
        5
        Curriculum
        8
        Art/Music
        5
        Infant care
        5
        K-ready
        6
        Teachers
        8
        Compassion
        8
        Mgmt
        8
        Culture
        6
        Class sizes
        0
        Extracurriculars
        6

        Strengths

        • 4.4-star Google rating
        • Women-run small business founded in 2000
        • SUTQ Gold rated
        • Accepts PFCC vouchers

        Considerations

          13
          Zion Christian Early Learning Center
          3300 Canfield Rd, Youngstown, OH 44511
          ★ 4.3 (7 Google)    ·  Licensed Child Care Center
          SUTQ: Gold
          6.5/ 10
          Safety
          5
          Curriculum
          8
          Art/Music
          5
          Infant care
          5
          K-ready
          6
          Teachers
          8
          Compassion
          7
          Mgmt
          8
          Culture
          7
          Class sizes
          0
          Extracurriculars
          6

          Strengths

          • 4.3 stars on Google (7 reviews)
          • Ohio Step Up To Quality: Gold rated
          • Established since 1968 — long community history
          • Before and after school care available

          Considerations

            14
            Heaven'S Little Angels Child Care & Preschool
            1944 S. Meridian, Youngstown, OH 44511
            ★ 4 (20 Google)    ·  Licensed Child Care Center
            SUTQ: Gold
            6.4/ 10
            Safety
            5
            Curriculum
            8
            Art/Music
            5
            Infant care
            5
            K-ready
            6
            Teachers
            8
            Compassion
            7
            Mgmt
            8
            Culture
            6
            Class sizes
            0
            Extracurriculars
            6

            Strengths

            • 4.0 stars on Google (20 reviews)
            • Ohio Step Up To Quality: Gold rated
            • Accepts PFCC vouchers

            Considerations

              15
              Millcreek Children'S Center
              44 Essex Street, Youngstown, OH 44502
              ★ 4.5 (2 Google)    ·  Licensed Child Care Center
              SUTQ: Gold
              6.4/ 10
              Safety
              5
              Curriculum
              8
              Art/Music
              5
              Infant care
              5
              K-ready
              6
              Teachers
              8
              Compassion
              7
              Mgmt
              8
              Culture
              6
              Class sizes
              0
              Extracurriculars
              6

              Strengths

              • 4.5-star Google rating
              • Non-profit serving lower-income families since 1976
              • SUTQ Gold rated
              • Ursuline Sisters faith-based sponsorship

              Considerations

                16
                Boardman United Methodist Preschool
                6809 Market St, Youngstown, OH 44512
                ★ 5 (5 Google)    ·  Licensed Child Care Center
                SUTQ: Gold
                6.3/ 10
                Safety
                5
                Curriculum
                8
                Art/Music
                5
                Infant care
                5
                K-ready
                6
                Teachers
                8
                Compassion
                6
                Mgmt
                8
                Culture
                6
                Class sizes
                0
                Extracurriculars
                6

                Strengths

                • Perfect 5-star Google rating (5 reviews)
                • Ohio Step Up To Quality: Gold rated
                • Accepts PFCC vouchers

                Considerations

                  17
                  Growing Kids Academy
                  2935 Suite #1 Market Street, Youngstown, OH 44507
                  ★ 5 (20 Google)    ·  Licensed Child Care Center
                  SUTQ: Gold
                  6.3/ 10
                  Safety
                  5
                  Curriculum
                  8
                  Art/Music
                  5
                  Infant care
                  5
                  K-ready
                  6
                  Teachers
                  8
                  Compassion
                  6
                  Mgmt
                  8
                  Culture
                  6
                  Class sizes
                  0
                  Extracurriculars
                  6

                  Strengths

                  • Perfect 5-star Google rating (20 reviews)
                  • Ohio Step Up To Quality: Gold rated
                  • Accepts publicly funded child care (PFCC) vouchers

                  Considerations

                    18
                    Hopes & Dreams Childcare Center
                    4490 Norquest Blvd, Youngstown, OH 44515
                    ★ 3.6    ·  Licensed Child Care Center
                    SUTQ: Gold
                    6.3/ 10
                    Safety
                    5
                    Curriculum
                    8
                    Art/Music
                    5
                    Infant care
                    5
                    K-ready
                    6
                    Teachers
                    8
                    Compassion
                    6
                    Mgmt
                    8
                    Culture
                    6
                    Class sizes
                    0
                    Extracurriculars
                    6

                    Strengths

                    • Gold SUTQ rated; uses High Scope Curriculum aligned with Ohio Early Learning Standards
                    • Active learning approach covering 8 developmental content areas
                    • Serves ages 6 weeks through 12 years; operating since 2004
                    • Uses COR Advantage assessment to track each child's developmental progress

                    Considerations

                      19
                      Kollege Tots & Kids Ii, Inc
                      3613 Market St., Youngstown, OH 44507
                      ★ 4    ·  Licensed Child Care Center
                      SUTQ: Gold
                      6.3/ 10
                      Safety
                      5
                      Curriculum
                      8
                      Art/Music
                      5
                      Infant care
                      5
                      K-ready
                      6
                      Teachers
                      7
                      Compassion
                      7
                      Mgmt
                      8
                      Culture
                      6
                      Class sizes
                      0
                      Extracurriculars
                      6

                      Strengths

                      • 4.0-star Google rating
                      • Staff described as excellent, caring, and professional
                      • Serves infants through school-age children

                      Considerations

                        20
                        Wee Care Day Care And Learning Centre
                        1101 Ford Ave, Youngstown, OH 44504
                        ★ 3.3    ·  Licensed Child Care Center
                        SUTQ: Gold
                        6.3/ 10
                        Safety
                        5
                        Curriculum
                        8
                        Art/Music
                        5
                        Infant care
                        5
                        K-ready
                        6
                        Teachers
                        8
                        Compassion
                        6
                        Mgmt
                        8
                        Culture
                        6
                        Class sizes
                        0
                        Extracurriculars
                        6

                        Strengths

                        • Gold SUTQ rated; 5 locations across the Mahoning Valley for convenience
                        • 1:3 ratio for infants; certified and degreed teachers
                        • Weekly, full-day, part-day, and hourly rates available
                        • Accepts PFCC vouchers

                        Considerations

                          21
                          Creative Corner Learning Center, Inc.
                          1463 Shields Rd, Youngstown, OH 44511
                          ★ 4.1 (8 Google)    ·  Licensed Child Care Center
                          SUTQ: Silver
                          6.1/ 10
                          Safety
                          5
                          Curriculum
                          7
                          Art/Music
                          5
                          Infant care
                          5
                          K-ready
                          6
                          Teachers
                          7
                          Compassion
                          7
                          Mgmt
                          7
                          Culture
                          6
                          Class sizes
                          0
                          Extracurriculars
                          6

                          Strengths

                          • 4.1-star Google rating (8 reviews)
                          • Parents note warm small-center atmosphere
                          • Ohio Step Up To Quality: Silver rated
                          • Accepts PFCC vouchers

                          Considerations

                            22
                            Early Bird Learning Center
                            8526 South Ave, Youngstown, OH 44514
                            Licensed Child Care Center
                            SUTQ: Gold
                            6.1/ 10
                            Safety
                            5
                            Curriculum
                            8
                            Art/Music
                            5
                            Infant care
                            5
                            K-ready
                            6
                            Teachers
                            8
                            Compassion
                            6
                            Mgmt
                            7
                            Culture
                            5
                            Class sizes
                            0
                            Extracurriculars
                            6

                            Strengths

                            • Ohio Step Up To Quality rated: Gold — highest quality tier recognized by the state
                            • Accepts publicly funded child care (PFCC) vouchers — accessible to subsidy-eligible families
                            • Part of a multi-location Ohio operation (Salem, Boardman/Youngstown, Canfield) — established network
                            • Credentialed staff focused on intellectual, social, and physical development
                            • Open 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM Monday through Friday; morning preschool and all-day care options available

                            Considerations

                            • Two complaint investigations on record in 2024 (both marked as non-compliance fully addressed by Ohio inspectors)
                            23
                            Wee Care Day Care & Learning Centre Ysu
                            One University Plaza, Youngstown, OH 44555
                            Licensed Child Care Center
                            SUTQ: Gold
                            6.1/ 10
                            Safety
                            5
                            Curriculum
                            8
                            Art/Music
                            5
                            Infant care
                            5
                            K-ready
                            6
                            Teachers
                            7
                            Compassion
                            6
                            Mgmt
                            7
                            Culture
                            6
                            Class sizes
                            0
                            Extracurriculars
                            6

                            Strengths

                            • Official YSU campus daycare — open 5:00 AM to 11:30 PM to support student-parent schedules
                            • Nearly 35 years in operation; certified and degreed teachers with 1:3 infant ratio
                            • Discounts available for YSU faculty, staff, students, and alumni based on household income
                            • Gold SUTQ rated; developmentally appropriate programs for ages 6 weeks to 10 years
                            • Part of 5-location Wee Care Mahoning Valley network

                            Considerations

                            • Primarily staffed by YSU student employees — higher staff turnover than non-campus centers
                            • Sister Wee Care location (Ford Ave, Youngstown) carries a 3.3 Google rating — network-level consistency uncertain
                            24
                            Ywca Discovery Place
                            25 West Rayen Avenue, Youngstown, OH 44503
                            YMCA Child Care · Licensed Child Care Center
                            SUTQ: Bronze
                            6.1/ 10
                            Safety
                            5
                            Curriculum
                            7
                            Art/Music
                            7
                            Infant care
                            5
                            K-ready
                            6
                            Teachers
                            6
                            Compassion
                            6
                            Mgmt
                            6
                            Culture
                            6
                            Class sizes
                            0
                            Extracurriculars
                            7

                            Strengths

                            • STEAM curriculum (science, technology, engineering, art, math)
                            • Developmental assessments quarterly; milestone tracking monthly
                            • Bi-annual parent-teacher conferences
                            • Ohio SUTQ Bronze rated center

                            Considerations

                              25
                              Alta Head Start Mccartney
                              1988 Mccartney Rd, Youngstown, OH 44505
                              Head Start · Licensed Child Care Center
                              SUTQ: Silver
                              5.8/ 10
                              Safety
                              5
                              Curriculum
                              7
                              Art/Music
                              5
                              Infant care
                              5
                              K-ready
                              6
                              Teachers
                              7
                              Compassion
                              6
                              Mgmt
                              6
                              Culture
                              5
                              Class sizes
                              0
                              Extracurriculars
                              6

                              Strengths

                              • Silver SUTQ rating - meets Ohio 3-star quality threshold for curriculum and teacher qualifications
                              • Alta Head Start Lead Teachers hold Bachelor degrees in ECE at above-average rates; CLASS scores above national average
                              • Free meals, health screenings, disability services, and transportation included for eligible families
                              • DonorsChoose records show 90 teacher-funded classroom projects, indicating educators actively seeking classroom enrichment

                              Considerations

                              • Heaviest inspection record among Alta Youngstown sites: Partially Compliant in every annual inspection from 2022 through 2025, plus two complaint investigations in 2025 and 2026
                              • December 2025 annual inspection non-compliance remained unresolved as of February 2026; April 2026 complaint also flagged partial compliance
                              • Indeed employee reviews for Alta (3.4/5) cite inconsistent management and high workload, which may contribute to recurring compliance gaps
                              26
                              Small Wonders Discovery & Learning Center
                              299 Edwards St, Youngstown, OH 44502
                              Licensed Child Care Center
                              SUTQ: Bronze
                              5.8/ 10
                              Safety
                              5
                              Curriculum
                              6
                              Art/Music
                              5
                              Infant care
                              5
                              K-ready
                              6
                              Teachers
                              6
                              Compassion
                              7
                              Mgmt
                              6
                              Culture
                              6
                              Class sizes
                              0
                              Extracurriculars
                              6

                              Strengths

                              • 5-star rating from 30 reviews on SoTellUs — parents consistently praise staff care and communication
                              • Creative Curriculum used across all 7 locations; goals aligned with Ohio Early Learning Standards
                              • All meals included for all ages; diapers and wipes provided free for children under 2.5
                              • Serves ages 6 weeks to 12 years including before/after school and summer camp
                              • Ohio Step Up To Quality: Bronze rated

                              Considerations

                                27
                                Creative Corner Learning Center Iii Inc
                                425 Crestview Drive, Youngstown, OH 44512
                                ★ 4.1 (8 Google)    ·  Licensed Child Care Center
                                SUTQ: Bronze
                                5.7/ 10
                                Safety
                                5
                                Curriculum
                                6
                                Art/Music
                                5
                                Infant care
                                5
                                K-ready
                                6
                                Teachers
                                6
                                Compassion
                                6
                                Mgmt
                                6
                                Culture
                                6
                                Class sizes
                                0
                                Extracurriculars
                                6

                                Strengths

                                • 4.1-star Google rating (8 reviews)
                                • Ohio Step Up To Quality: Bronze rated
                                • Accepts PFCC vouchers

                                Considerations

                                  28
                                  Poland-Boardman Child Care Center
                                  1940 Poland Boardman Road, Youngstown, OH 44514
                                  ★ 5 (4 Google)    ·  Licensed Child Care Center
                                  SUTQ: Bronze
                                  5.7/ 10
                                  Safety
                                  5
                                  Curriculum
                                  6
                                  Art/Music
                                  5
                                  Infant care
                                  5
                                  K-ready
                                  6
                                  Teachers
                                  6
                                  Compassion
                                  6
                                  Mgmt
                                  6
                                  Culture
                                  6
                                  Class sizes
                                  0
                                  Extracurriculars
                                  6

                                  Strengths

                                  • Perfect 5-star Google rating (4 reviews)
                                  • Ohio Step Up To Quality rated
                                  • Accepts publicly funded child care (PFCC) vouchers

                                  Considerations

                                    29
                                    Storybook Preschool & Daycare
                                    5353 South Ave., Youngstown, OH 44512
                                    ★ 3    ·  Licensed Child Care Center
                                    SUTQ: Bronze
                                    5.7/ 10
                                    Safety
                                    5
                                    Curriculum
                                    6
                                    Art/Music
                                    5
                                    Infant care
                                    5
                                    K-ready
                                    6
                                    Teachers
                                    6
                                    Compassion
                                    6
                                    Mgmt
                                    6
                                    Culture
                                    6
                                    Class sizes
                                    0
                                    Extracurriculars
                                    6

                                    Strengths

                                    • Ohio Step Up To Quality rated: Bronze — recognized quality program
                                    • Accepts publicly funded child care (PFCC) vouchers — accessible to subsidy-eligible families
                                    • Ohio-licensed childcare center serving the local community

                                    Considerations

                                    • Mixed reviews — some parents report safety and communication concerns
                                    30
                                    Shepherd Of All God'S Children
                                    610 N Lakeview Ave, Youngstown, OH 44509
                                    Licensed Child Care Center
                                    SUTQ: NR
                                    5.6/ 10
                                    Safety
                                    5
                                    Curriculum
                                    6
                                    Art/Music
                                    5
                                    Infant care
                                    6
                                    K-ready
                                    6
                                    Teachers
                                    6
                                    Compassion
                                    6
                                    Mgmt
                                    5
                                    Culture
                                    5
                                    Class sizes
                                    0
                                    Extracurriculars
                                    6

                                    Strengths

                                    • 33-year history serving Mahoning and Trumbull counties - long-established community presence
                                    • Extended hours 6am-6pm Monday-Friday - accommodates full working-day schedules
                                    • Large capacity (90 children) - typically has availability
                                    • Serves infants through school-age children (ages 0-12) - full age range under one roof
                                    • Faith-based (Christian values) curriculum emphasizing social-emotional development
                                    • Accepts publicly funded child care (PFCC) vouchers - accessible to subsidy-eligible families
                                    • Received $10,000 Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley grant - community-supported institution
                                    • Founder philosophy centers on staff listening to and understanding each child

                                    Considerations

                                    • SUTQ: NR - has not pursued Ohio Step Up To Quality rating
                                    31
                                    Austintown Community Church Preschool
                                    242 S Canfield Niles Rd, Youngstown, OH 44515
                                    Licensed Child Care Center
                                    SUTQ: Bronze
                                    5.5/ 10
                                    Safety
                                    5
                                    Curriculum
                                    6
                                    Art/Music
                                    5
                                    Infant care
                                    5
                                    K-ready
                                    6
                                    Teachers
                                    6
                                    Compassion
                                    6
                                    Mgmt
                                    5
                                    Culture
                                    5
                                    Class sizes
                                    0
                                    Extracurriculars
                                    6

                                    Strengths

                                    • Ohio Step Up To Quality: Bronze — state-recognized quality program
                                    • Over 50 years of operation as a community ministry — long-established local presence
                                    • Open 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM Monday through Friday year-round; accepts ages 3 through 5th grade
                                    • Inclusive enrollment regardless of race, religion, or ethnicity; staff trained to support special behavioral, developmental, or physical needs
                                    • One review praised staff, environment, and cleanliness: 'Love the staff, environment and cleanliness of this school. Best I have seen after touring many, many other schools' (childcarecenter.us, 2015)
                                    • Serves as practicum site for early childhood education students

                                    Considerations

                                    • Inspection history shows Partially Compliant findings on multiple consecutive annual inspections (2022, 2024 twice, 2025); a 2024 cycle had non-compliance only partially addressed as of June 2024
                                    32
                                    Cardinal Kiddie Kollege
                                    3243 Cardinal Drive, Youngstown, OH 44505
                                    Licensed Child Care Center
                                    SUTQ: Bronze
                                    5.5/ 10
                                    Safety
                                    5
                                    Curriculum
                                    6
                                    Art/Music
                                    5
                                    Infant care
                                    5
                                    K-ready
                                    6
                                    Teachers
                                    6
                                    Compassion
                                    6
                                    Mgmt
                                    5
                                    Culture
                                    5
                                    Class sizes
                                    0
                                    Extracurriculars
                                    6

                                    Strengths

                                    • Ohio Step Up To Quality rated: Bronze — recognized quality program
                                    • Established 1976 — nearly 50 years serving Youngstown families
                                    • Christian-affiliated center serving children ages 6 weeks through 12 years
                                    • Accepts publicly funded child care (PFCC) vouchers — accessible to subsidy-eligible families
                                    • Facebook page shows 92% recommendation rate from 11 reviews

                                    Considerations

                                    • July 2022 state inspection found Partially Compliant status (non-compliance was subsequently fully addressed)
                                    33
                                    Kidz Kare Kaztle Llc
                                    1216 Ameritech Blvd., Youngstown, OH 44509
                                    Licensed Child Care Center
                                    SUTQ: Bronze
                                    5.5/ 10
                                    Safety
                                    5
                                    Curriculum
                                    6
                                    Art/Music
                                    5
                                    Infant care
                                    5
                                    K-ready
                                    6
                                    Teachers
                                    6
                                    Compassion
                                    6
                                    Mgmt
                                    5
                                    Culture
                                    5
                                    Class sizes
                                    0
                                    Extracurriculars
                                    6

                                    Strengths

                                    • Ohio Step Up To Quality rated: Bronze — recognized quality program
                                    • Accepts publicly funded child care (PFCC) vouchers — accessible to subsidy-eligible families
                                    • Meals provided — reduces burden on families
                                    • Ohio-licensed childcare center serving the local community

                                    Considerations

                                    • Relatively newly licensed center (licensed December 2022) — limited operational track record
                                    34
                                    Happy Campers Learning Center North
                                    1451 Churchill Hubbard Rd, Youngstown, OH 44505
                                    Licensed Child Care Center
                                    SUTQ: NR
                                    5.4/ 10
                                    Safety
                                    5
                                    Curriculum
                                    6
                                    Art/Music
                                    5
                                    Infant care
                                    5
                                    K-ready
                                    5
                                    Teachers
                                    6
                                    Compassion
                                    6
                                    Mgmt
                                    5
                                    Culture
                                    5
                                    Class sizes
                                    0
                                    Extracurriculars
                                    6

                                    Strengths

                                    • Part of the established Happy Campers brand — women-run small business founded in 2000 by Tracy Jordan
                                    • Accepts publicly funded child care (PFCC) vouchers — accessible to subsidy-eligible families
                                    • Serves children 18 months through 12 years — broad age range coverage
                                    • Sibling Happy Campers main location holds SUTQ Gold rating, reflecting organizational quality standards

                                    Considerations

                                    • North campus is a newer location; limited independent public track record available
                                    35
                                    Little Learners Academy "Llc". 1831908
                                    1951 Mathews Rd, Youngstown, OH 44514
                                    Licensed Child Care Center
                                    SUTQ: NR
                                    5.4/ 10
                                    Safety
                                    5
                                    Curriculum
                                    6
                                    Art/Music
                                    5
                                    Infant care
                                    5
                                    K-ready
                                    5
                                    Teachers
                                    6
                                    Compassion
                                    6
                                    Mgmt
                                    5
                                    Culture
                                    5
                                    Class sizes
                                    0
                                    Extracurriculars
                                    6

                                    Strengths

                                    • Licensed since 2009 - long-standing community presence
                                    • Small capacity of 23 children - low headcount environment
                                    • Located inside Heritage Presbyterian Church - stable, church-based facility
                                    • Fully compliant on most recent annual inspection (February 2022)

                                    Considerations

                                    • Part-time schedule only (Mon/Wed/Fri, 9am-2pm) - not suitable for full-time working families
                                    • SUTQ: NR - has not pursued Ohio Step Up To Quality rating
                                    • Does not accept vouchers - subsidy-ineligible families only
                                    • Serves only preschool-age children (ages 3-5) - no infant or toddler care
                                    36
                                    Little Loves Childcare Center
                                    1941 E. Midlothian Blvd, Youngstown, OH 44502
                                    Licensed Child Care Center
                                    SUTQ: NR
                                    5.4/ 10
                                    Safety
                                    5
                                    Curriculum
                                    6
                                    Art/Music
                                    5
                                    Infant care
                                    5
                                    K-ready
                                    5
                                    Teachers
                                    6
                                    Compassion
                                    6
                                    Mgmt
                                    5
                                    Culture
                                    5
                                    Class sizes
                                    0
                                    Extracurriculars
                                    6

                                    Strengths

                                    • Serves infants, toddlers, and preschoolers - broad age coverage
                                    • Accepts publicly funded child care (PFCC) vouchers - accessible to subsidy-eligible families
                                    • Ohio-licensed childcare center with active enrollment

                                    Considerations

                                    • SUTQ: NR - has not pursued Ohio Step Up To Quality rating
                                    • Listing is unclaimed on major review platforms - limited provider transparency
                                    37
                                    Raising Young Royalty Child Develpment Center
                                    209 W. Woodland Avenue, Youngstown, OH 44502
                                    Licensed Child Care Center
                                    SUTQ: NR
                                    5.4/ 10
                                    Safety
                                    5
                                    Curriculum
                                    6
                                    Art/Music
                                    5
                                    Infant care
                                    5
                                    K-ready
                                    5
                                    Teachers
                                    6
                                    Compassion
                                    6
                                    Mgmt
                                    5
                                    Culture
                                    5
                                    Class sizes
                                    0
                                    Extracurriculars
                                    6

                                    Strengths

                                    • Minority-owned, woman-owned, and family-owned - community-rooted leadership
                                    • Serves infants, toddlers, and preschoolers - broad age coverage
                                    • Ohio-licensed childcare center
                                    • Listed with the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber - locally recognized business

                                    Considerations

                                    • SUTQ: NR - has not pursued Ohio Step Up To Quality rating
                                    38
                                    Wlw Enterprise Dba Laugh And Learn Academy
                                    123 E. Rayen Ave, Youngstown, OH 44503
                                    Licensed Child Care Center
                                    SUTQ: Bronze
                                    5.3/ 10
                                    Safety
                                    5
                                    Curriculum
                                    6
                                    Art/Music
                                    5
                                    Infant care
                                    5
                                    K-ready
                                    6
                                    Teachers
                                    6
                                    Compassion
                                    5
                                    Mgmt
                                    4
                                    Culture
                                    5
                                    Class sizes
                                    0
                                    Extracurriculars
                                    6

                                    Strengths

                                    • States mission of a safe, loving environment that feels like home; serves ages 6 weeks to 12 years
                                    • Evening care available; participates in subsidized child care program
                                    • Ohio Step Up To Quality: Bronze rated

                                    Considerations

                                    • Former employees on Indeed report serious state and health violations; one account states the state shut it down
                                    • Employee reviews describe owner management as disorganized with poor communication and ongoing financial stress
                                    39
                                    Alta Head Start Choffin
                                    200 East Wood Street, Youngstown, OH 44503
                                    Head Start · Licensed Child Care Center
                                    SUTQ: NR
                                    5.1/ 10
                                    Safety
                                    5
                                    Curriculum
                                    6
                                    Art/Music
                                    5
                                    Infant care
                                    5
                                    K-ready
                                    5
                                    Teachers
                                    6
                                    Compassion
                                    5
                                    Mgmt
                                    5
                                    Culture
                                    4
                                    Class sizes
                                    0
                                    Extracurriculars
                                    5

                                    Strengths

                                    • Part of Alta Head Start, which maintains CLASS scores above national average and employs Lead Teachers with ECE Bachelor degrees at above-average rates
                                    • Free meals, health screenings (vision, dental), and disability services included for eligible families
                                    • Located in the Choffin Career Center building in downtown Youngstown - centrally accessible site

                                    Considerations

                                    • No Step Up To Quality (SUTQ) rating on record - has not achieved any rated quality tier
                                    • Indeed employee reviews for Alta organization (3.4/5) flag favoritism, inconsistent management, and rules described as changing constantly
                                    40
                                    Alta Head Start Coc Building 2
                                    1960 E County Line Rd, Youngstown, OH 44515
                                    Head Start · Licensed Child Care Center
                                    SUTQ: NR
                                    5.1/ 10
                                    Safety
                                    5
                                    Curriculum
                                    6
                                    Art/Music
                                    5
                                    Infant care
                                    5
                                    K-ready
                                    5
                                    Teachers
                                    6
                                    Compassion
                                    5
                                    Mgmt
                                    5
                                    Culture
                                    4
                                    Class sizes
                                    0
                                    Extracurriculars
                                    5

                                    Strengths

                                    • Part of Alta Head Start, which maintains CLASS scores above national average and employs Lead Teachers with ECE Bachelor degrees at above-average rates
                                    • Free meals, health screenings (vision, dental), and disability services included for eligible families
                                    • Located on East County Line Rd at the Campus of Care complex, which consolidates multiple Alta services on one campus

                                    Considerations

                                    • No Step Up To Quality (SUTQ) rating on record - has not achieved any rated quality tier
                                    • Minimal public-facing information available for this specific building; facility details are sparse online
                                    • Indeed employee reviews for Alta (3.4/5) cite management inconsistency and high staff turnover across the organization
                                    41
                                    Tots And Toys Learning Center
                                    3300 Hudson Ave, Youngstown, OH 44511
                                    Licensed Child Care Center
                                    SUTQ: NR
                                    5.0/ 10
                                    Safety
                                    5
                                    Curriculum
                                    5
                                    Art/Music
                                    5
                                    Infant care
                                    5
                                    K-ready
                                    5
                                    Teachers
                                    5
                                    Compassion
                                    5
                                    Mgmt
                                    5
                                    Culture
                                    5
                                    Class sizes
                                    0
                                    Extracurriculars
                                    5

                                    Strengths

                                    • Accepts publicly funded child care (PFCC) vouchers - accessible to subsidy-eligible families on the west side of Youngstown
                                    • Extended hours (6:30am-11:30pm Mon-Sat) accommodate non-standard shift workers
                                    • Family-oriented small center on Hudson Ave in an established residential neighborhood

                                    Considerations

                                    • No SUTQ quality rating - has not achieved any rated quality tier through Ohio Step Up To Quality
                                    • No website - families cannot preview curriculum, staff credentials, or program details before touring
                                    42
                                    Bundle Of Joy Childcare Center
                                    3125 Shady Run Rd., Youngstown, OH 44502
                                    Licensed Child Care Center
                                    SUTQ: NR
                                    4.8/ 10
                                    Safety
                                    5
                                    Curriculum
                                    5
                                    Art/Music
                                    5
                                    Infant care
                                    5
                                    K-ready
                                    5
                                    Teachers
                                    5
                                    Compassion
                                    5
                                    Mgmt
                                    4
                                    Culture
                                    4
                                    Class sizes
                                    0
                                    Extracurriculars
                                    5

                                    Strengths

                                    • Accepts publicly funded child care (PFCC) vouchers — accessible to subsidy-eligible families
                                    • Extended hours (6:30 AM to 11:00 PM weekdays) — accommodates non-standard work schedules
                                    • Ohio-licensed childcare center serving the local community

                                    Considerations

                                    • Ohio inspection records show repeated Partially Compliant findings across multiple inspections through January 2026
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                                    Recognition of Excellence · Youngstown, OH · 2026
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