The Best Daycare Centers in Dewart, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Dewart. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Dewart
Kiddie Academy of Williamsport
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Williamsport is a highly-regarded educational childcare center serving the Dewart area with their Life Essentials curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and social-emotional learning. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and secure classroom environments. Their degreed teachers implement age-appropriate lesson plans with low student-teacher ratios. The facility includes modern classrooms, dedicated playgrounds for different age groups, and nutritious meal programs. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, experienced staff, and comprehensive educational approach that prepares children for kindergarten and beyond.
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The Goddard School of Williamsport
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Williamsport provides premium early childhood education to families in the Dewart region with their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic preparation with social development. The school employs highly-qualified teachers with degrees in early childhood education who receive ongoing professional development. Safety features include secured entry systems, comprehensive emergency protocols, and strict hygiene standards. The modern facility features bright, spacious classrooms, age-appropriate learning centers, indoor gymnasium, and multiple outdoor playgrounds. The curriculum emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts while fostering independence and problem-solving skills.
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Milton Early Childhood Academy
Independent
Milton Early Childhood Academy serves the Dewart community with a comprehensive early education program that combines play-based learning with structured academic preparation. The center is known for its small class sizes, experienced teaching staff with an average of 8+ years tenure, and individualized attention for each child. Their curriculum focuses on developmental milestones while incorporating technology, music, and physical education. The facility features secure access control, modern safety equipment, updated playgrounds with safety surfaces, and clean, well-organized classrooms. Parents highlight the center's family-like atmosphere, consistent communication, and strong preparation for elementary school transition. The academy maintains excellent state licensing compliance and high parent satisfaction ratings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Dewart, PA
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available for families in Dewart, PA?
In Dewart, PA, and the surrounding Northumberland County area, parents typically have access to several types of licensed childcare. These include licensed childcare centers, which are often located in nearby towns like Muncy or Watsontown, and family childcare homes operated within a provider's residence right in Dewart. Pennsylvania's Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) licenses and regulates both. Due to Dewart's rural nature, family childcare homes can be a particularly common and convenient local option, offering smaller group sizes and a home-like environment. It's also common for parents to commute to larger facilities in neighboring communities. You can search for all licensed providers in the area using the state's online COMPASS website or by contacting the Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 8.
How much does full-time daycare typically cost in Dewart, and are there financial assistance programs?
In the Dewart area, full-time daycare costs can vary significantly based on the type of care and the child's age. For an infant at a childcare center in a neighboring town, you might expect to pay between $800 to $1,100 per month. A family childcare home in Dewart itself may offer slightly lower rates, potentially ranging from $650 to $900 monthly for full-time care. Pennsylvania offers financial assistance through the Child Care Works subsidized childcare program, administered locally by the ELRC Region 8. Eligibility is based on family income, work, school, or training requirements. Many local providers accept these subsidies. We strongly recommend contacting the ELRC at 1-866-491-5437 to determine your eligibility and find participating providers in the Dewart vicinity.
Are daycare waitlists common in Dewart, and how far in advance should I start looking for care?
Given that Dewart is a smaller community with fewer dedicated facilities, waitlists for the most sought-after local family daycare homes or spots at nearby centers can be common, especially for infant care. It is highly advisable to begin your search at least 3 to 6 months before you need care, and if you are expecting a baby, starting your inquiries during your second trimester is a prudent timeline. When contacting providers, be sure to ask directly about their current waitlist length, any fees to join it, and how often they update families on their status. Being flexible with your start date can also improve your chances of securing a spot.
What should I look for when evaluating the quality and safety of a daycare in Dewart, PA?
First and foremost, verify that the provider is licensed by the state of Pennsylvania. You can ask to see their license and check for any recent compliance reports or violations online through the OCDEL website. During a visit, look for key safety indicators: clean and child-proofed environments, secure outdoor play areas, and clear procedures for pick-up/drop-off. Ask about staff qualifications, including background checks, pediatric first-aid/CPR certification, and ongoing training. Inquire about the adult-to-child ratio to ensure it meets or exceeds state standards. Also, observe how caregivers interact with the children—warm, responsive, and engaged interactions are a hallmark of quality. Don't hesitate to ask for references from other Dewart-area parents.
What resources are available locally to help me find and choose a daycare provider near Dewart?
The primary local resource is the **Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 8**, which serves Northumberland County. They offer free referral services to help parents find licensed childcare that fits their needs in Dewart and the surrounding area. You can call them or use their online search tool. Additionally, connecting with other parents through local community Facebook groups (e.g., "Dewart, PA Community" or "Warrior Run Area Parents") can provide invaluable word-of-mouth recommendations and insights into local home-based providers. The Warrior Run School District may also have information about before/after-school care programs for older children. For state-level information and to check a provider's licensing history, the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services website is an essential tool.