What Every Parent Should Know About Teacher Training Before Choosing a Daycare
How Much Training Do Daycare Teachers Actually Receive?
Most parents don't realize that Ohio only requires childcare teachers to complete 6 hours of professional development each year — about the length of a single Saturday workshop.
But high-quality childcare programs often go far beyond the minimum. Understanding how much training your child's teachers receive, and what that training includes, can make a big difference in your child's daily experience and long-term development.
At Balanced Family Academy, teachers participate in an average of 30 hours of professional development each year — nearly five times the state requirement. That additional training helps teachers stay current with best practices and create engaging, supportive classrooms where children thrive.
What Are the Minimum Training Requirements for Daycare Teachers in Ohio?
In Ohio, licensed childcare teachers are required to complete just 6 hours of professional development each year — the baseline the state sets to maintain licensure. Those hours can be fulfilled in a variety of ways, including online courses, in-person workshops, or conferences, and there are no requirements around specific topics.
This doesn't mean every Ohio childcare program only does the minimum — many go further. But it does mean that as a parent, you can't assume all teachers are receiving the same depth of training just because a program is licensed. Understanding what the baseline looks like helps you ask better questions and recognize the difference between a program that meets requirements and one that genuinely invests in its educators.
What Kind of Training Do Daycare Teachers Receive?
Quality teacher training goes far beyond basic licensing requirements.
Ongoing professional development helps teachers understand how children grow, learn, and interact — and how to respond effectively in the classroom.
Strong training programs typically focus on areas such as:
Child development and age-appropriate learning
Social and emotional development
Positive classroom management strategies
Creating engaging and purposeful learning environments
Health, safety, and wellness practices
Building strong communication with families
Exceptional programs go even further, offering specialized training that allows teachers to grow professionally and bring fresh ideas into the classroom:
Social-emotional learning and emotional regulation
Building strong classroom culture and connections
Leadership and mentorship for experienced teachers
Curriculum development and learning strategies
When teachers receive training across both foundational and specialized areas, they feel more confident, better prepared, and equipped to create the kind of classroom every child deserves.
How Does Teacher Training Affect My Child's Daily Experience?
Teacher training doesn't just benefit educators — it directly impacts your child's day.
Well-trained teachers are more likely to:
Recognize developmental milestones and support growth
Manage behavior in positive, supportive ways
Create engaging learning experiences
Build strong relationships with children
Communicate effectively with families
Training also supports the family experience, helping teachers create welcoming classrooms where parents feel informed, respected, and connected.
What Should Parents Ask About Teacher Training When Choosing a Childcare Center?
When touring childcare programs, asking the right questions can help you identify centers that prioritize teacher growth and classroom quality.
Consider asking:
How many hours of training do teachers complete each year?
What topics are included in teacher training?
Do teachers receive specialized or advanced training?
How does training support classroom quality and family communication?
How do you keep teachers up to date on best practices?
These questions help ensure your child is learning from educators who are supported, knowledgeable, and continually improving.
Why Teacher Training Matters for Every Child
When teachers feel confident, supported, and continuously developed, classrooms become more engaging, relationships grow stronger, and children feel safe and inspired to learn.
High-quality teacher training doesn't just benefit educators — it creates better outcomes for children and stronger partnerships with families.
Because when teachers grow, children and entire school communities thrive.
Ready to See It in Action?
Choosing a childcare program is one of the most important decisions your family will make. We'd love to answer these questions in person — schedule a tour at Balanced Family Academy and see our classrooms firsthand.
