The Best Daycare Centers in Cheltenham, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Cheltenham. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Cheltenham
The Malvern School of Elkins Park
The Malvern School
The Malvern School of Elkins Park offers a comprehensive educational curriculum focusing on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) concepts. Their proprietary curriculum is developed by certified teachers and emphasizes hands-on learning experiences. The facility features secure entry systems, certified teachers with degrees in early childhood education, and age-appropriate learning environments. They maintain low student-to-teacher ratios and provide regular developmental assessments. The center is known for its strong emphasis on school readiness and offers enrichment programs including Spanish, music, and physical education.
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The Goddard School of Glenside
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Glenside provides a play-based learning approach through their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program. Their curriculum focuses on social, emotional, and academic development with certified teachers leading age-appropriate activities. The facility includes secure keypad entry, multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups, and bright, modern classrooms. They emphasize literacy development, STEM activities, and character education. The school maintains state-mandated ratios and provides daily communication with parents through their proprietary mobile app, including photos and activity updates.
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Cheltenham Early Learning Center
Independent
Cheltenham Early Learning Center offers a balanced curriculum that combines structured learning with creative exploration. Their program emphasizes social-emotional development through the Creative Curriculum system while incorporating Montessori-inspired practical life activities. The center features secure facilities with monitored access, outdoor play areas with natural elements, and dedicated spaces for different developmental stages. Staff includes certified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development. The center is noted for its inclusive environment and strong community partnerships, offering flexible scheduling options to meet diverse family needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Cheltenham, PA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Cheltenham, PA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Cheltenham, PA, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,600 per month, while toddler and preschool programs generally cost between $1,000 and $1,400 per month. These rates are influenced by factors such as the center's accreditation, staff-to-child ratios, and included amenities. For financial assistance, Pennsylvania's Child Care Works (CCW) subsidy program is available for eligible families based on income and need. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's also worth checking with the Cheltenham Township for any community-based initiatives or referrals to assistance programs.
How do I verify a daycare or childcare provider's license and inspection history in Cheltenham, PA?
All childcare providers in Cheltenham must be licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). You can verify a provider's license and view their compliance history, including inspection reports and any cited violations, through the publicly accessible **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** website. Simply search by the provider's name or location. It's highly recommended to review these reports, as they detail health, safety, and program standards. You can also contact the Southeast Regional Office of OCDEL for further verification or to ask specific questions about a provider's standing.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Cheltenham, and what's the best strategy for securing a spot?
Yes, waitlists are common for many daycare centers and highly-regarded preschools in Cheltenham, especially for infant rooms. It's not unusual for waitlists to be 6 to 12 months long. The best strategy is to start your search early, ideally during pregnancy or at least 4-6 months before your needed start date. Contact multiple centers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $25-$100). Follow up with centers every 2-3 months to confirm your spot on the list. Also, consider expanding your search to neighboring areas like Abington, Glenside, or Melrose Park for more options.
What are the main types of childcare options available to families in Cheltenham, besides traditional daycare centers?
Cheltenham offers a variety of childcare options to suit different family needs. These include: * **Family Child Care Homes:** Licensed providers caring for a smaller group of children in a residential setting, often offering more flexible hours. * **Montessori and Faith-Based Preschools:** Several private schools and churches in the area offer part-day or full-day preschool programs with specific educational or religious philosophies. * **Nanny Shares:** A popular option in residential neighborhoods, where two or more families hire one nanny to care for their children collectively. * **Before/After-School Care:** Offered by the Cheltenham School District and various private organizations for school-age children at elementary schools like Myers or Glenside Elementary.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare center in Cheltenham, given Pennsylvania's specific regulations?
During a tour, look for evidence of compliance with Pennsylvania's strict regulations. Key things to observe include: * **Staff-to-Child Ratios:** PA mandates ratios like 1:4 for infants and 1:10 for preschoolers. Are classrooms adequately staffed? * **Safety & Cleanliness:** Check for secure entrances, clean diapering and food prep areas, age-appropriate toys, and covered electrical outlets. Ask about their sick-child policy. * **Staff Qualifications:** Inquire if lead teachers have the required PA credentials (like an Associate's degree in ECE for preschool) and if all staff have current clearances (FBI, Child Abuse, Criminal History). * **Outdoor Play:** PA requires daily outdoor time when weather permits. Inspect the playground for safety surfacing and secure fencing. * **Communication:** Ask how they communicate daily activities and incidents (many use apps like Brightwheel). Trust your instincts about the warmth of the environment and staff engagement.