The Best Daycare Centers in Boswell, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Boswell. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Boswell
Bright Horizons at Windber
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Windber is a nationally accredited childcare center located just 6 miles from Boswell. They offer a comprehensive World at Their Fingers curriculum that emphasizes STEAM learning, literacy development, and social-emotional growth. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and comprehensive background checks for all staff. Teachers hold early childhood education degrees and receive ongoing professional development. The facility includes age-appropriate learning environments, outdoor playgrounds, and enrichment programs in music, art, and physical education. Parents appreciate the regular communication through the proprietary Family Space app and the center's focus on preparing children for kindergarten success.
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The Learning Lamp at Somerset
The Learning Lamp
The Learning Lamp is a highly-regarded regional nonprofit organization serving Somerset County, located approximately 8 miles from Boswell. Their NAEYC-accredited program features a research-based curriculum that balances academic readiness with play-based learning. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and employs degreed early childhood educators. Safety features include secured entry systems, comprehensive emergency protocols, and regular safety drills. The facility offers spacious classrooms, dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, and outdoor learning environments. The program includes nutritious meals and snacks, family engagement events, and inclusive programming for children of all abilities.
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KinderCare Learning Center at Johnstown
KinderCare Education
Located approximately 15 miles from Boswell, this KinderCare center provides nationally recognized early childhood education with a comprehensive curriculum that focuses on literacy, math, science, and social skills development. The center features secure building access, dedicated age-based learning centers, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different developmental stages. Their team includes experienced early childhood professionals with ongoing training in child development and safety protocols. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through centers approach and includes enrichment activities in music, Spanish, and physical fitness. Parents value the consistent communication, progress reporting, and flexible scheduling options that accommodate working families in the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Boswell, PA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Boswell, PA?
In Boswell and the surrounding Somerset County area, full-time daycare costs can vary based on the type of facility. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay approximately $180 to $250 per week for an infant. For a toddler, the range is typically $160 to $220 per week. Licensed family/group home daycares often offer slightly lower rates, ranging from $140 to $200 per week. These costs are generally lower than in major Pennsylvania metropolitan areas but can still represent a significant portion of a family's budget. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, diapers, and curriculum materials. Some providers may offer a small discount for enrolling multiple children.
How can I verify that a daycare in Boswell is properly licensed and has a good compliance record?
All childcare providers in Pennsylvania must be licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). To verify a provider's license and review their compliance history, you can use the state's online **Child Care Finder** tool. This resource allows you to search for providers in Boswell (ZIP code 15531) and view their license status, capacity, and any reported regulatory violations or inspections. You can also contact the **Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 5**, which serves Somerset County, for assistance and referrals to licensed providers. Always visit a potential daycare in person and ask to see their current certificate of compliance.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with childcare costs for families in Boswell?
Yes, the primary program is Pennsylvania's **Child Care Works (CCW) subsidy**, administered through the **ELRC Region 5**. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and reason for care (such as employment, job training, or education). Families in Boswell apply through the ELRC, which determines co-pay amounts based on a sliding scale. Additionally, some local organizations or employers in the Johnstown/Somerset region may offer assistance or flexible spending account options. It's also worth inquiring directly with daycare providers if they offer any scholarship slots or sliding scale fees based on income, as some private centers or faith-based programs might have limited funds available.
What is the average waitlist time for infant care at daycare centers in the Boswell area, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to lower state-mandated staff-to-child ratios for infants, spots are often limited and in high demand. In Boswell and nearby communities like Jennerstown or Somerset, waitlists for infant care at centers can range from **3 to 9 months**, especially for popular providers. It is highly recommended that expecting parents begin researching and contacting daycares **as early as the second trimester of pregnancy**. For family home daycares, which have smaller capacities, waitlists can be shorter but also fill quickly. When touring, always ask about the current waitlist policy, any deposit required to hold a spot, and how often the list is updated.
What are some of the key questions to ask when touring a daycare in a small town like Boswell?
Beyond standard questions about curriculum and safety, in a close-knit community like Boswell, you'll want to ask locally relevant questions. These include: "What is your policy and plan for delayed openings or closures due to severe rural weather or road conditions?" "How do you handle communication with parents, given that cell service can be spotty in some parts of Somerset County?" "Can you describe your outdoor play area and how children are protected from local wildlife or agricultural hazards?" Also, ask about their connection to the community: "Do you take children on local outings (e.g., to the Boswell Area Historical Society or local parks) and what are the safety protocols?" Finally, inquire about staff longevity and local background, as low turnover often indicates a stable, quality environment.