The Best Daycare Centers in Bala Cynwyd, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Bala Cynwyd. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Bala Cynwyd
The Goddard School of Bala Cynwyd
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Bala Cynwyd offers a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic readiness, social development, and creative expression. Their play-based curriculum is developed by early childhood education experts and incorporates STEAM learning, literacy development, and character education. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes individualized learning plans and maintains low student-to-teacher ratios to ensure personalized attention.
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Bright Horizons at Bryn Mawr
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Bryn Mawr provides high-quality early education with a research-based curriculum that prepares children for academic success. Their World at Their Fingertips approach integrates literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies through hands-on learning experiences. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, dedicated age-specific playgrounds, and well-equipped classrooms. All lead teachers hold bachelor's degrees and early childhood certifications, with ongoing training in child development best practices. The program emphasizes social-emotional learning, problem-solving skills, and parent partnerships through regular communication and family engagement events.
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The Children's Village of Bala Cynwyd
Independent Non-Profit
The Children's Village of Bala Cynwyd is a nationally accredited early childhood center offering a developmental approach to learning that balances structured activities with child-directed exploration. Their curriculum emphasizes literacy development, mathematical thinking, and social skills through project-based learning and play. The facility includes secure access controls, multiple outdoor play spaces, and specialized learning centers for art, music, and movement. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and participate in continuous professional development. The center maintains strong parent partnerships through daily communication, regular conferences, and family involvement opportunities, with a focus on creating an inclusive, diverse community environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Bala Cynwyd, PA
What are the typical costs for full-time infant daycare in Bala Cynwyd, PA, and what factors influence the price?
In Bala Cynwyd, full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $1,800 to $2,500+ per month. This places it among the higher-cost areas in Pennsylvania, reflecting its location in Montgomery County and proximity to Philadelphia. Several key factors influence the price: the type of facility (corporate chain vs. independent center vs. licensed home daycare), staff-to-child ratios, the inclusion of amenities like organic meals or specialized educational curricula (like Montessori or Reggio Emilia), and the age of your child (infant care is the most expensive due to lower ratios). Many centers in Bala Cynwyd also include enrichment programs like music, yoga, or foreign language exposure in their tuition. It's important to ask exactly what is included, as some centers may have additional fees for registration, supplies, or late pick-up.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Bala Cynwyd, and when should I start looking?
Waitlists for highly-regarded daycare centers in Bala Cynwyd can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 18 months, especially for infant rooms. Due to high demand and limited infant slots (mandated by strict PA state ratios), it is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin touring facilities and getting on waitlists during the first or early second trimester of pregnancy. Many popular centers in the area, such as those affiliated with major employers or with strong educational reputations, maintain perpetual waitlists. When you tour, ask specific questions about how the waitlist works, if a deposit is required to hold a spot, and how often they update families on their position.
What are the key differences between a Pennsylvania-licensed daycare center and a licensed group/family home daycare in Bala Cynwyd?
In Bala Cynwyd, parents will encounter both licensed Child Care Centers and licensed Family Child Care Homes. Centers are larger facilities, often in commercial buildings, serving more children with multiple staff rooms. They typically offer structured curricula, multiple classrooms by age, and may have more resources. Family Child Care Homes operate out of a provider's residence and are licensed for a smaller number of children (often 6-12, depending on ages), offering a more home-like environment with mixed-age groups, which can be beneficial for siblings. Both are regulated by the PA Department of Human Services (DHS) and must meet health, safety, and training standards. The choice often comes down to preference for environment, schedule flexibility (home providers may offer more personalized hours), and the desired social setting for your child.
Are there any local resources or organizations in Bala Cynwyd that help parents find and evaluate childcare options?
Yes, a primary local resource is the **Child Care Information Services (CCIS) of Montgomery County**. While based in Norristown, they serve Bala Cynwyd parents by providing referrals to licensed and certified providers, information on state regulations, and guidance on financial assistance programs like the Child Care Works subsidy. Additionally, parents can use the Pennsylvania DHS "Child Care Finder" website to search for licensed providers by zip code (19004) and review their inspection reports. For informal evaluations, local parent groups on social media (e.g., Facebook groups for Lower Merion parents) are invaluable for gathering personal recommendations and experiences with specific centers and home daycares in the area.
What are the state-mandated staff-to-child ratios and safety regulations I should verify when touring a daycare in Bala Cynwyd?
Pennsylvania DHS sets strict staff-to-child ratios that any licensed provider in Bala Cynwyd must follow. Key ratios are: 1:4 for infants (under 1 year), 1:5 for young toddlers (1-year-olds), 1:6 for older toddlers (2-year-olds), and 1:10 for preschoolers (3-5 years). When touring, you can observe if these ratios are being maintained. Essential safety regulations include: all staff must have current FBI clearances, child abuse history clearance, and criminal background checks; there must be a written emergency plan; staff must be trained in pediatric first-aid and CPR; and facilities must be inspected annually for health and safety compliance. Don't hesitate to ask the director for proof of their current license and to see their most recent inspection report, which should be posted or readily available.
Nearby Cities
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