What is CALICO Center?                          

The primary purpose of CALICO is to provide a community based, educational center and daycare for toddlers and preschoolers who have special needs, or are typically developing. A special focus is placed on children that require nursing services and qualify as medically fragile. Nursing services are available on site. The Center is also designed to meet the needs of children whose technological and medical care may exclude them from other daycare opportunities. CALICO currently serves over one hundred children in eight classrooms. The Center provides an opportunity for parents to work or pursue an education knowing their child is receiving quality care at CALICO.

CALICO Center was founded by the County of Summit Board of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities, the Hattie Larlham Foundation and Children's Hospital Medical Center of Akron in April of 1995.

Why should my child come to CALICO Center?           

CALICO Center has professionally trained staff to work with children who have special needs or who are typically developing. Staffing meets or exceeds Ohio Department of Education ratios with one certified instructor and two certified instructor assistants for every twelve students.

Center classrooms are totally inclusive with six children who are typically developing and six children with special needs.

The CALICO Center offers spacious, developmentally appropriate classrooms, specially surfaced outdoor play area, and an indoor swimming pool.

The CALICO Center provides well-balanced, nutritional morning and afternoon snacks and hot lunches which meet state and federal guidelines. Special dietary needs are also considered.

The CALICO Center offers children an opportunity to begin their educational experience in a fun environment, socialize with their peers, and to learn about human differences.

What do I need to know for my child to enroll?          

CALICO Center is located at 89 East Howe Road, Tallmadge in the west wing of the Weaver Learning Complex.

Center hours are 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday thru Friday.

Center fees are based on full and partial days attendance. Some families may be eligible for services on a sliding fee scale, check with us to verify your fees.

If a child has special needs, transportation can be provided for an additional fee. Transportation is the responsibility of the parents for children who are typically developing.

Children who are eligible may also receive: nursing services, occupational and physical therapy, speech and language therapy, case management and service coordination.

Parents and children are encouraged to visit the CALICO Center! To complete a pre-enrollment form or to schedule a visit CALL.

CALICO Center is licensed by the Ohio Department of Education.