The Best Daycare Centers in De Lancey, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in De Lancey. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in De Lancey
The Goddard School of Glen Mills
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Glen Mills offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Features state-certified teachers, low student-to-teacher ratios, and comprehensive safety protocols including secure entry systems. Curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, arts, and social development. Modern facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and enrichment programs. Parents praise the consistent communication and developmental progress tracking.
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KinderCare Learning Center at Glen Eagle Square
KinderCare Education
KinderCare Glen Mills provides research-based curriculum with emphasis on early literacy, math, and social-emotional development. Features highly qualified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development. Comprehensive security includes coded entry systems, regular safety drills, and strict pick-up protocols. Offers balanced nutrition program and age-appropriate learning centers. Specializes in school readiness with structured learning activities and play-based exploration. Parents consistently note the caring staff and excellent communication.
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Creative Learning Center
Independent
Creative Learning Center offers a Montessori-inspired approach combined with traditional early childhood education. Features small class sizes, individualized learning plans, and hands-on experiential learning. Curriculum emphasizes language development, practical life skills, and creative expression. Staff includes certified early childhood educators with specialized training in child development. Secure facility with monitored access and comprehensive health protocols. Highly regarded for nurturing environment and strong parent-teacher partnerships.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in De Lancey, PA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in De Lancey, PA, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In De Lancey, as part of Pennsylvania, all childcare centers and group daycare homes must be licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). Family daycare homes caring for 4-6 unrelated children also require a license. Key requirements include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants), background checks for all employees, health and safety training, and regular facility inspections. To verify a provider's compliance and view their inspection reports, you can use the state's publicly accessible **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** website or contact the regional OCDEL office serving Pike County. It's highly recommended to check this resource for any recent violations before enrolling your child.
What is the average cost of full-time infant daycare in De Lancey, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the De Lancey area and surrounding Pike County, full-time infant daycare typically ranges from **$800 to $1,200 per month**, though prices can vary based on the facility's amenities, curriculum, and location. Costs tend to be slightly lower than in major metropolitan areas of PA but are influenced by the seasonal tourism economy. For financial assistance, Pennsylvania's **Child Care Works (CCW)** subsidy program is the primary resource for eligible families based on income, work, or school requirements. You can apply through the Pike County Assistance Office. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in De Lancey, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Due to the rural nature of De Lancey and limited number of facilities, waitlists for infant and toddler rooms can be significant, often ranging from **6 to 12 months**. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as soon as you know you will need care, ideally during pregnancy or several months before your planned start date. Many parents in the area contact multiple centers in De Lancey and neighboring communities like Milford or Hawley. Be prepared to place a non-refundable deposit to hold a spot. Staying in regular contact with your preferred centers can improve your chances.
Are there any unique outdoor or nature-based childcare programs available in the De Lancey area?
Yes, the natural environment of the Pocono Mountains region offers unique opportunities. While there are no licensed forest schools directly in De Lancey, several nearby daycare centers and preschools in Pike County incorporate strong **nature-based curricula**. These programs emphasize daily outdoor play, gardening, and exploration of local woods and streams, aligning with the area's character. When touring facilities, ask about their outdoor philosophy, safety protocols for outdoor time, and if they have certified Nature Explore classrooms. This focus is a distinctive benefit of childcare in this region.
What should I know about part-time or drop-in childcare options in De Lancey, PA?
Consistent part-time and true drop-in childcare options are very limited in De Lancey due to licensing constraints and high demand for full-time spots. Most licensed centers require a set weekly schedule. Your best bets are: 1) **Registered Family Child Care Homes**, which may offer more flexible arrangements for a few days a week; 2) Coordinating with a local **in-home babysitter or nanny share** through community networks; or 3) Exploring occasional "parents' day out" programs sometimes offered by community centers or churches in the broader Pike County area. It's crucial to plan well ahead and be clear about your needed schedule when inquiring.