The Best Daycare Centers in Clearville, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Clearville. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Clearville
Kiddie Academy of Bedford
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Bedford is a highly-rated educational childcare center located approximately 15 minutes from Clearville. They follow the Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and creative arts. The center features state-certified teachers with degrees in early childhood education, secure keypad entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers. The academy emphasizes hands-on learning experiences and maintains low student-to-teacher ratios to ensure individualized attention. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, structured learning environment, and nurturing staff.
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Rainbow's End Learning Center
Independent
Rainbow's End Learning Center is a family-owned childcare facility serving the Bedford County area, including Clearville families. They offer a comprehensive early childhood program that balances academic preparation with social-emotional development. The center employs qualified early childhood educators who create customized learning plans for each child. Their curriculum includes phonics, mathematics readiness, science exploration, and creative expression. The facility features secure access controls, modern learning materials, and spacious indoor and outdoor play areas. Parents particularly appreciate the center's warm, family-like atmosphere, consistent communication through daily reports, and focus on developing independence and confidence in children.
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Growing Tree Children's Center
Independent
Growing Tree Children's Center, located in nearby Everett (approximately 20 minutes from Clearville), provides quality childcare with a strong emphasis on early childhood development. The center follows a play-based learning approach integrated with structured academic components. Their qualified teaching staff holds degrees in early childhood education and participates in ongoing professional development. The facility includes modern classrooms, age-appropriate learning centers, and secure outdoor play spaces. The center maintains excellent safety records with comprehensive security measures and regular safety drills. Parents consistently report high satisfaction with the center's nurturing environment, educational programming, and the developmental progress they observe in their children.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Clearville, PA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Clearville, PA, and how can I verify a center is properly licensed?
In Clearville, as in all of Pennsylvania, childcare providers 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. Licensing ensures compliance with regulations on staff-to-child ratios, health and safety standards, staff qualifications (including background checks and training), and facility requirements. To verify a provider's license status, you can use the DHS's **COMPASS Child Care Provider Search** tool online or contact the OCDEL's regional office serving Bedford County. It's highly recommended to only consider licensed providers, as this offers a baseline of oversight and protection for your child.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Clearville, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Clearville and the surrounding Bedford County area, the average cost for full-time, center-based infant care typically ranges from **$800 to $1,100 per month**. Toddler care is slightly less, often between **$700 and $950 per month**. Family daycare homes may offer lower rates. These costs can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and staff credentials. For financial assistance, Pennsylvania's **Child Care Works (CCW) subsidized childcare program** is the primary resource. Eligibility is based on family income, work, or school schedules. You can apply through the COMPASS website or contact the Bedford County Assistance Office. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Clearville, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Due to limited provider options in a smaller community like Clearville, waitlists for infant and toddler spots, especially at highly-regarded centers, can be significant. It is not uncommon for waitlists to be **6 to 12 months long**, or even longer for infant care. We strongly advise parents to begin their search and get on waitlists **as early as possible during pregnancy**. Many families contact providers in their first or second trimester. Be prepared to put down a deposit to secure a spot on a list. For more immediate needs, expanding your search to nearby towns like Everett or Bedford might provide more options, though this will add commute time.
Are there any unique outdoor or nature-based childcare programs available near Clearville, given its proximity to state forests and rural setting?
Yes, Clearville's location in the Allegheny Mountains and near the Buchanan State Forest creates opportunities for nature-focused early learning. While a dedicated "forest school" may not be located directly in Clearville, several providers in Bedford County incorporate strong outdoor components into their daily routines, emphasizing exploration, gardening, and outdoor play. Furthermore, some registered family childcare homes in the area operate on larger properties, offering children daily access to natural spaces. When touring facilities, ask specifically about their outdoor play philosophy, the frequency and duration of outside time in all weather, and if they follow programs like "Nature Explore." This rural setting is a major asset for childhood development.
What resources are available in Clearville for finding and comparing different childcare options, beyond a simple online search?
Beyond online searches, the best local resource is the **Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 6**, which serves Bedford County. The ELRC offers free, personalized **Child Care Referral Specialists** who can provide a list of licensed providers in your zip code, help you understand quality indicators, and navigate financial assistance. You can contact them by phone or through their website. Additionally, local community hubs are invaluable. Ask for recommendations at the **Clearville Post Office**, the **Bedford County Library system**, your pediatrician's office (often part of the UPMC or Conemaugh networks), and local churches. Word-of-mouth from other parents in the community is often the most trusted source of information.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Clearville: