The Best Daycare Centers in Devon, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Devon. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Devon
The Goddard School of Devon
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Devon offers a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic readiness, social development, and creative expression. Their play-based curriculum is developed by early childhood education experts and includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All lead teachers hold four-year degrees in education or related fields, and the school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios. Parents consistently praise the engaging learning environment, regular communication, and the school's commitment to individualized attention for each child's developmental needs.
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Chesterbrook Academy Preschool
Spring Education Group
Chesterbrook Academy in nearby Berwyn serves the Devon community with a research-based curriculum that balances academic preparation with social-emotional development. Their program includes specialized instruction in literacy, mathematics, science, and Spanish language exposure. The school features secure facilities with coded entry systems, dedicated playgrounds for different age groups, and technology-enhanced classrooms. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The academy emphasizes parent partnership through regular progress reports, parent-teacher conferences, and family engagement events. Their comprehensive approach includes character education and community service projects.
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The Malvern School
The Malvern School
The Malvern School provides an advanced curriculum developed by early childhood education specialists, focusing on cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. Their proprietary curriculum includes specialized programs in literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts, with additional enrichment in music, physical education, and technology. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems, age-appropriate learning environments, and extensive outdoor play spaces. All lead teachers hold four-year degrees and participate in continuous professional development. The school is known for its strong emphasis on individualized learning plans, regular developmental assessments, and exceptional parent communication through daily reports and digital portfolios.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Devon, PA
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Devon, PA, and what factors influence the price?
In Devon, PA, full-time daycare for infants typically ranges from $1,600 to $2,200 per month, while toddler care often falls between $1,400 and $1,900 per month. These costs are influenced by several local factors. Center-based programs, which are common in the Main Line area, tend to be at the higher end of the spectrum due to structured curricula, larger facilities, and more staff. In-home family daycare providers in Devon neighborhoods may offer slightly lower rates. Additional factors that affect price include the program's accreditation (e.g., NAEYC), staff-to-child ratios, meal provisions, and whether it's a year-round or school-year schedule. Given Devon's location in Chester County and its proximity to major employers, demand is high, which sustains these premium rates. It's advisable to budget for potential annual tuition increases of 3-5%.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Devon, and when should I start my search?
For the most sought-after daycare centers and preschools in Devon, waitlists can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 18 months, especially for infant rooms which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios under Pennsylvania law. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin their research and tours during the first trimester of pregnancy to secure a spot for their infant. For toddler or preschool enrollment, initiating the search 9-12 months in advance is prudent. Many centers, particularly those affiliated with local institutions or with high Keystone STAR ratings, have application deadlines and notification dates that align with an annual admissions cycle (e.g., applications in January for a September start). Being proactive, getting on multiple lists (even with a non-refundable deposit), and following up periodically are key strategies for Devon parents.
What are the key Pennsylvania state licensing and safety regulations I should verify when choosing a daycare in Devon?
All childcare providers in Devon must be licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS). Key regulations to verify include: **Staff-to-Child Ratios** (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:5 for young toddlers), **Maximum Group Sizes**, and **Staff Qualifications** including background checks (PA Child Abuse, FBI, and Criminal History), health assessments, and mandated reporter training. You should also confirm the provider's **Keystone STARS** rating (a voluntary quality improvement program; a 4-STAR rating is the highest) and check for any recent **DHS Inspection Reports**, which are public record and can be accessed online. Locally, you can also inquire about their emergency plans for severe weather and their compliance with Chester County's specific health department guidelines.
Are there part-time or flexible childcare options available in Devon, or is it mostly full-time programs?
While full-time care is the most common offering, Devon does have part-time and flexible options, though they can be more limited and competitive. Many traditional daycare centers offer fixed part-time schedules (e.g., 2, 3, or 5 days a week), often for preschool-age children rather than infants. For more flexibility, parents often turn to licensed **family daycare homes** in Devon's residential areas, which may accommodate non-traditional hours. Another growing option is the use of **nanny shares** with other local families, which is popular in Devon's close-knit neighborhoods. Additionally, some local churches and community centers offer morning preschool programs (9 am-12 pm) that serve as part-time care. It's essential to inquire directly about flexibility, as policies vary greatly.
What resources are available in Devon and Chester County to help me find and evaluate childcare providers?
Chester County parents have several excellent local resources. The primary hub is **Child Care Information Services of Chester County (CCIS)**, which maintains a searchable database of licensed providers, offers referrals, and administers subsidy programs for eligible families. You can access their services online or by phone. Additionally, the **Pennsylvania Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 19** website provides detailed provider profiles, including Keystone STARS ratings and inspection summaries. For local word-of-mouth and reviews, Devon parents are very active on **community Facebook groups** (e.g., "Main Line Moms") and neighborhood apps like Nextdoor. Finally, the **Chester County Library System** often has community bulletin boards with information on local family daycare providers and preschool open houses.