The Best Daycare Centers in Bedford, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Bedford. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Bedford
Bedford County Head Start
Community Action Partnership of Bedford County
Bedford County Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education and family support services with a strong focus on school readiness. The program follows a research-based curriculum that addresses all areas of child development including literacy, math, science, and social-emotional skills. All lead teachers hold bachelor's degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The center emphasizes parent involvement through regular communication, family events, and educational workshops. Services include health screenings, nutritious meals, and transportation for eligible families. What makes this center stand out is its holistic approach that supports the entire family while preparing children for kindergarten success.
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ABC Children's Learning Center
Independent
ABC Children's Learning Center offers a comprehensive educational program for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years. The center utilizes Creative Curriculum with a play-based learning approach that incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and social skills. Classrooms are organized into learning centers that encourage exploration and independent thinking. All staff members are CPR and First Aid certified, with lead teachers holding degrees in early childhood education. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and modern learning materials. The center stands out for its flexible scheduling options, extended hours, and strong emphasis on creating a nurturing, home-like environment while maintaining high educational standards.
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Bright Beginnings Learning Center
Independent
Located in nearby Everett but serving the broader Bedford County area, Bright Beginnings Learning Center provides quality early childhood education with a focus on individualized development. The center implements a balanced curriculum that combines structured learning with child-directed activities, emphasizing language development, cognitive skills, and physical coordination. Teachers maintain low student-to-teacher ratios and use ongoing assessment to track developmental milestones. The facility includes secure classrooms, outdoor play areas, and dedicated spaces for different age groups. What makes this center exceptional is their strong communication system with daily reports, regular parent-teacher conferences, and their commitment to creating inclusive environments that celebrate diversity and support each child's unique learning style.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Bedford, PA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Bedford, PA, and how can I verify a facility's compliance?
In Bedford, PA, all childcare facilities serving more than three unrelated children must be licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). This includes family childcare homes, group childcare homes, and childcare centers. Licensed providers must meet strict standards for staff qualifications (including background checks and training in child abuse recognition and CPR/First Aid), child-to-staff ratios, health and safety procedures, and facility safety. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the DHS "Child Care Finder" tool online or contact the OCDEL's regional office serving Bedford County. It's highly recommended to check for any recent violations or corrective action plans.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Bedford, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Bedford and the surrounding county, the average cost for full-time, center-based infant care typically ranges from $175 to $250 per week. For toddlers, the cost is slightly lower, averaging $150 to $225 per week. Family childcare homes may offer more affordable rates. These costs are generally lower than in larger Pennsylvania metros but are a significant household expense. For financial assistance, Pennsylvania's Child Care Works (CCW) subsidy program is the primary resource. Eligibility is based on family income, work, or school attendance requirements. You can apply through the Bedford County Assistance Office. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Bedford, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to limited capacity, especially for infants and toddlers, waitlists at licensed daycare centers in Bedford can range from 3 to 9 months, and sometimes longer for highly sought-after providers. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during your second trimester of pregnancy if expecting, or at least 6 months before your needed start date. When contacting centers, ask specific questions about their waitlist process: Is there a fee to be on the list? How often should you check in? Is the list for a specific classroom or general? Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family homes in the county, which may have shorter wait times.
Are there any unique childcare options in Bedford that cater to non-traditional work hours, like overnight or weekend care?
Finding childcare for non-traditional hours (evenings, overnight, weekends) is a significant challenge in Bedford, as most licensed centers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM schedule. Your best options are to seek out licensed family childcare homes, as some providers may offer more flexible hours to accommodate shift workers common in local healthcare, manufacturing, or service industries. It is crucial to discuss your specific schedule needs upfront. Another potential resource is to inquire with larger employers in the area, like UPMC Bedford or certain manufacturing plants, as they may have referrals or partnerships with flexible providers. Networking through local parent groups on social media can also yield leads.
What resources are available in Bedford to help me evaluate and choose a quality childcare program?
Beyond checking state licensing, several local resources can help you make an informed choice. First, you can contact the Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 8, which serves Bedford County. They offer referrals, quality information, and can explain Keystone STARS—Pennsylvania's quality rating system. A higher STAR rating (1-4) indicates a program that exceeds minimum licensing standards. Schedule tours and ask providers about their STAR level. Secondly, utilize the "Inspection Reports" feature on the DHS Child Care Finder website to review recent state inspections. Finally, connect with other parents through community hubs like the Bedford County Family Center or local Facebook groups (e.g., "Bedford County Moms") for firsthand experiences and recommendations.