About Barrel of Monkeys
Where every child is valued, every moment matters, and learning is an adventure. Family owned and operated since 2011, we've been serving Austintown and the greater Youngstown area with quality childcare and early education for 15 years.
Gold Rated — Ohio Step Up To QualityOur Philosophy
At Barrel of Monkeys, we believe that the early years are the most important in a child's development. Our approach combines structured learning activities with plenty of time for creative play and exploration.
We understand that choosing childcare is one of the most important decisions a family makes. That's why we work hard every day to create an environment where children feel safe, loved, and excited to learn.
Our dedicated teachers bring passion and expertise to every classroom, implementing age-appropriate curriculum that prepares children for school and life while fostering a genuine love of learning.
Our Core Values
These principles guide everything we do at Barrel of Monkeys.
Safety First
Every child deserves a secure environment. We maintain rigorous safety standards and procedures to ensure peace of mind for families.
Learning Through Play
Children learn best when they're engaged and having fun. Our curriculum balances structured learning with creative exploration.
Individual Growth
Every child develops at their own pace. We recognize and nurture each child's unique strengths, interests, and learning style.
Family Partnership
Parents are a child's first teachers. We believe in open communication and partnership with families to support each child's development.
What is Step Up To Quality?
Step Up To Quality (SUTQ) is Ohio's quality rating system for early childhood programs. It recognizes programs that exceed Ohio's health and safety licensing standards by meeting higher quality benchmarks.
What Our Gold Rating Means For Your Family:
- Highly qualified teachers with advanced education and training
- Developmentally appropriate curriculum and learning activities
- Strong family engagement and communication practices
- Safe, healthy learning environment that meets strict standards
- Regular program assessments to ensure continuous quality improvement
- Lower child-to-teacher ratios for more individualized attention
Earning and maintaining a Gold rating — the highest tier in Ohio's system — requires ongoing commitment to excellence. We're proud to be among the highest-rated childcare centers in the Youngstown area.
A Facility Built for Childhood
Our Austintown center features purpose-designed classrooms for every age group, secure entry, and fenced outdoor play spaces.
Our Austintown Home
A family-owned childcare facility on Westchester Drive, located directly behind Denny's just seconds from the Route 11 Austintown/Mahoning Avenue exit and the I-80 interchange. An easy stop on your daily commute.
Purpose-Built Classrooms
Bright, spacious rooms designed for each age group, from our infant nursery to Pre-K.
Outdoor Play Spaces
Fenced playgrounds and a turf play yard give children safe room to run, climb, and explore.
Come See Us In Person
We'd love to show you around and answer any questions you have about our programs.
Schedule a Tour