The Best Daycare Centers in Dallas, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Dallas. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Dallas
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Trucksville serves the Dallas area with a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social development with dedicated teachers holding early childhood education credentials. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, modern classrooms. What makes this center stand out is their focus on individualized learning plans and daily communication with parents through their proprietary app, providing real-time updates on child development and activities.
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Building Blocks Learning Center
Independent
Building Blocks Learning Center is a locally-owned facility in downtown Dallas offering a play-based curriculum that emphasizes social-emotional development alongside academic readiness. Their qualified staff maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and participates in ongoing professional development. The center features secure facilities with coded entry, nutritious meal programs, and both indoor and outdoor learning environments. They stand out for their strong community involvement and flexible scheduling options that accommodate working families in the Dallas area.
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The Children's Center at Wyoming Seminary
Wyoming Seminary
The Children's Center at Wyoming Seminary serves families throughout the Back Mountain region including Dallas, offering an academically-rich early childhood program within a prestigious independent school setting. Their Reggio Emilia-inspired approach emphasizes project-based learning, creativity, and critical thinking skills. The center features highly qualified teachers with advanced degrees, state-of-the-art facilities including dedicated art and music rooms, and comprehensive security systems. What distinguishes this center is their integration with Wyoming Seminary's educational resources and their focus on developing global citizenship from early childhood.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Dallas, PA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Dallas, PA, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Dallas, PA, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). This includes family daycare homes (caring for 4-6 children) and group daycare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet strict standards for health, safety, staff qualifications (including background checks and training), child-to-staff ratios, and facility safety. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** tool online or contact the Northeast Regional Office of OCDEL. It's highly recommended to check for any recent violations or corrective action plans before enrolling your child.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Dallas, PA?
The cost of daycare in Dallas, PA, varies by the child's age and the type of facility. For a full-time infant (under 1 year) at a licensed center, parents can expect to pay between **$1,000 to $1,400 per month**. Toddler care (ages 1-3) typically ranges from **$900 to $1,200 per month**. Family daycare homes are often slightly less expensive. These costs are influenced by factors like program amenities, staff credentials, and meal provisions. Financial assistance may be available through Pennsylvania's Child Care Works (CCW) subsidy program for eligible families, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in the Dallas, PA area, and how far in advance should I apply?
Yes, due to high demand and limited capacity, especially for infant care, many reputable daycare centers in the Dallas area and surrounding Luzerne County have significant waitlists. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists **6 to 12 months before your needed start date**, particularly for infants. For toddler or preschool spots, 3-6 months may be sufficient but starting early is still wise. When contacting centers, ask directly about their current waitlist length and policy. Consider expanding your search to include licensed family homes in the Dallas Borough and nearby towns like Shavertown or Kingston, as they may have more immediate openings.
What types of childcare programs are most commonly available in Dallas, PA, beyond standard daycare centers?
Parents in Dallas, PA, have several options. Beyond traditional daycare centers, you can find: * **Licensed Family Child Care Homes:** Often smaller, home-based settings offering a family-like environment. * **Preschools:** Many local churches, community centers, and private schools offer part-day or full-day preschool programs for children ages 3-5, focusing on school readiness. * **Head Start/Early Head Start:** Federally funded programs for income-eligible families, providing comprehensive early education, health, and nutrition services. There are locations serving Luzerne County. * **Before/After-School Care:** Offered by some daycare centers and the Dallas School District for school-age children. Exploring options in adjacent communities can provide a wider selection.
What are some local resources for finding and evaluating childcare options in the Dallas, PA area?
Your best starting point is the **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** website, a state-run searchable database of all licensed providers. For personalized referral and guidance, contact the **Child Care Information Service (CCIS) of Luzerne County**, which is the local resource and referral agency contracted by the state. They can provide lists of providers, information on quality (like Keystone STARS ratings), and details on subsidy programs. Additionally, local parenting groups on social media (e.g., Facebook groups for Dallas/Back Mountain parents) can offer personal recommendations and insights into current provider reputations and availability.