The Best Daycare Centers in Cheyney, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Cheyney. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Cheyney
The Goddard School of West Chester
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in West Chester offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social development. Their play-based curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play spaces. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and provide daily communication to parents about their child's activities and progress.
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Chester County Intermediate Unit - Head Start Program
Chester County Intermediate Unit
The CCIU Head Start program provides comprehensive early childhood education and family support services with a focus on school readiness for children from low-income families. Their research-based curriculum emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The program includes health and nutrition services, family engagement opportunities, and special education support. All lead teachers hold bachelor's degrees in early childhood education, and the program maintains state-mandated ratios. They offer inclusive classrooms and individualized learning plans with strong parent-teacher partnerships.
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The Malvern School
The Malvern School
The Malvern School provides exceptional early childhood education with their proprietary Links to Learning curriculum that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. Their program includes Spanish language instruction, music and movement, and technology integration. The school features secure facilities with keypad entry, comprehensive safety protocols, and age-appropriate learning environments. All teachers hold degrees in education and receive extensive training in child development and curriculum implementation. The school emphasizes individualized attention with low student-teacher ratios and provides regular progress reports and parent conferences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Cheyney, PA
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available for families in Cheyney, PA?
In Cheyney, PA, parents have several licensed childcare options. The primary types are Child Care Centers, which are larger facilities often with structured programs and multiple classrooms, and Family Child Care Homes, which are smaller, home-based settings typically caring for a smaller group of children in a more intimate environment. Given Cheyney's location within Chester County and its proximity to West Chester and the broader Philadelphia region, some families may also consider centers in neighboring towns. All providers must be licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS), which ensures they meet health, safety, and staff qualification standards. You can search for licensed providers specifically in the 19319 zip code or Chester County using the DHS's online Child Care Finder tool.
How much does full-time daycare typically cost in Cheyney, and are there financial assistance programs?
The cost of full-time daycare in the Cheyney area varies significantly by the type of care and the child's age. For an infant at a childcare center, you can expect an average of $1,100 to $1,400 per month. Rates for toddlers and preschoolers are generally slightly lower. Family child care homes may offer more affordable rates, sometimes ranging from $800 to $1,100 monthly. Financial assistance is available through Pennsylvania's Child Care Works (CCW) subsidy program, which helps eligible low- and moderate-income families. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and reason for care (e.g., employment, education). You can apply through the Chester County Assistance Office. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
Are daycare waitlists common in Cheyney, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common, especially for infant care slots at highly regarded centers and home providers in the Cheyney area. Due to limited facilities within the immediate borough and high demand from families connected to Cheyney University of Pennsylvania and surrounding communities, planning ahead is crucial. It is strongly recommended to begin your search at least 6 to 9 months before you need care, and for infant spots, even 12 months in advance is not unreasonable. When contacting providers, always ask about their current waitlist length, any fees to join the list, and how often they update families on their status. Being flexible with your start date can also improve your chances of securing a spot sooner.
What specific Pennsylvania state regulations should I be aware of when evaluating a daycare in Cheyney?
Pennsylvania DHS regulations set important standards for all licensed childcare. Key ratios for Cheyney providers are: 1 caregiver for every 4 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). All staff must have clearances, including FBI fingerprinting, Child Abuse History, and PA State Police Criminal History. Lead teachers must have specific education and experience. Facilities must also have emergency plans, safe sleep policies for infants, and meet strict health and safety codes. As a parent, you have the right to ask any provider for their most recent DHS Certificate of Compliance and inspection reports, which are also often available online through the state's provider search.
What resources are available locally to help me find and evaluate childcare options in Cheyney?
Your best local resource is the **Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 19**, which serves Chester County. They offer free, personalized referrals to licensed childcare providers in the Cheyney area and can help you understand the Child Care Works subsidy. You can contact them at (484) 356-0070 or visit their website. Additionally, you can use the Pennsylvania DHS "Child Care Finder" online database to search by zip code (19319) and filter by program type. For on-the-ground insights, consider asking for recommendations in local community groups, such as the "Chester County Moms" Facebook pages, or from faculty and staff at Cheyney University, as they often have direct experience with local providers.