The Best Daycare Centers in Delano, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Delano. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Delano
Tender Years Child Development Center
Tender Years Inc.
Tender Years is a highly-regarded childcare center serving the Delano area with a comprehensive educational approach. They implement the Creative Curriculum system, focusing on developmental milestones through play-based learning and structured activities. The center features state-certified teachers with early childhood education credentials, maintaining low student-teacher ratios for personalized attention. Facilities include secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and modern classrooms with learning centers. Their program emphasizes literacy development, social-emotional learning, and kindergarten readiness. The center provides nutritious meals and maintains strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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Rainbow Junction Learning Center
Rainbow Junction Inc.
Rainbow Junction Learning Center offers a nurturing environment with a balanced curriculum that combines academic preparation and social development. Their educational philosophy incorporates Montessori-inspired elements with traditional early childhood education. The center employs qualified early childhood educators who participate in ongoing professional development. Safety features include secured access, comprehensive background checks, and emergency preparedness protocols. The curriculum includes Spanish language exposure, music and movement activities, and STEM exploration. Parents appreciate the center's transparent communication and the staff's dedication to creating a warm, inclusive atmosphere that supports each child's individual growth.
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Growing Place Child Care & Preschool
Growing Place LLC
The Growing Place has built an excellent reputation over nearly two decades of service to the Delano region. Their research-based curriculum focuses on whole-child development through hands-on learning experiences and structured play. The center features degreed lead teachers with specialized training in early childhood development. Their facilities include dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, spacious preschool classrooms with learning centers, and secure outdoor play spaces. The program emphasizes literacy development, mathematical thinking, and social skills through project-based learning. The center maintains rigorous health and safety standards with comprehensive cleaning protocols and staff CPR/first aid certification. Parents consistently praise the center's engaging activities and the staff's genuine care for each child's wellbeing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Delano, PA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Delano, PA?
In Delano and the surrounding Schuylkill County area, full-time daycare costs can vary based on the type of provider. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay approximately $800 to $1,100 per month for infant care. For a toddler (ages 1-3), costs may range from $700 to $950 per month. In-home family daycare providers in the area often offer slightly lower rates, typically between $600 and $850 per month. It's important to note that these are estimates, and prices can be influenced by factors like specific program offerings, staff-to-child ratios, and included meals. Given the rural nature of Delano, options within the immediate town may be limited, so some parents may need to budget for providers in nearby towns like Hazleton or Mahanoy City, which could affect transportation costs.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Delano is properly licensed and what are Pennsylvania's key regulations?
All childcare providers in Pennsylvania caring for four or more unrelated children 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 status, view inspection reports, and check for any compliance history by using the publicly accessible **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** website or by contacting your local Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) for Region 12, which serves Schuylkill County. Key state regulations include strict staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:5 for toddlers), comprehensive background checks for all employees, annual health and safety inspections, and required ongoing training for staff. Always ask to see a provider's current certificate of compliance during your visit.
Are there any subsidized childcare or financial assistance programs available for families in Delano?
Yes, eligible families in Delano can apply for childcare subsidy through Pennsylvania's Child Care Works (CCW) program, which is administered by the **Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 12**. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and reason for care (such as employment, job training, or education). You can apply online through the COMPASS website or contact ELRC Region 12 directly for assistance. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships. Given the economic profile of the region, it is advisable to apply early, as funding can be limited and there may be a waitlist for subsidy slots.
What is the availability of daycare like in Delano, and should I expect to join a waitlist?
Delano is a small borough, so dedicated daycare centers within the town limits are very limited. Most families utilize licensed family daycare homes or look to providers in neighboring communities. Due to this limited supply, especially for infant care spots which have the strictest ratios, it is very common to encounter waitlists. It is highly recommended to begin your search at least 3-6 months before you need care. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current availability and typical waitlist timeframe. Expanding your search to include areas like McAdoo, Tamaqua, or Hazleton can increase your options, though this will involve a commute.
What are some local resources or methods for finding and evaluating daycare options in the Delano area?
The best starting point is the **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** tool online, which allows you to search by zip code (18220) and filter by type of care, hours, and accepted subsidies. Your local **Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC Region 12)** is also an invaluable free resource for referrals and guidance. For more community-based insights, consider asking for recommendations in local Facebook groups (e.g., "Delano, PA Community" or "Schuylkill County Moms") or at places like the Delano Fire Company community events. When evaluating a provider, always schedule an in-person visit, ask for references from current parents, and observe the interactions between staff and children. Check if the provider participates in Pennsylvania's voluntary quality rating system, Keystone STARS, which indicates a higher level of program quality.