The Best Daycare Centers in Drumore, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Drumore. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Drumore
The Goddard School of Quarryville
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Quarryville offers a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with play-based learning. Their STEAM-focused curriculum includes science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics activities tailored to each age group. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, modern classrooms. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes character development and social-emotional learning through structured play and guided activities.
Daycare Services:
Chesterbrook Academy Preschool
Chesterbrook Academy
Chesterbrook Academy provides a research-based curriculum that includes literacy development, mathematics, and character education. Their Links to Learning program focuses on school readiness through structured activities and hands-on learning experiences. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, outdoor play areas with age-appropriate equipment, and dedicated art and music spaces. Teachers maintain low student-teacher ratios and participate in continuous training. The academy offers enrichment programs including Spanish, music, and physical education, along with regular parent-teacher conferences to track developmental progress.
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Bright Horizons at Lancaster General Health
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Lancaster General Health offers the World at Their Fingertips curriculum, which emphasizes language development, emergent literacy, and problem-solving skills. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, nutritionally balanced meals prepared on-site, and spacious indoor and outdoor learning environments. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive specialized training in child development. The program includes regular developmental assessments and portfolio documentation. As part of a corporate childcare network, they maintain high standards for health and safety protocols and offer flexible scheduling options for working families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Drumore, PA
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available in Drumore, PA, and how do I find them?
In Drumore, a township in Lancaster County, your primary licensed childcare options are family childcare homes (care provided in a provider's residence) and possibly smaller childcare centers or preschools. Due to its rural nature, there are fewer large commercial centers compared to urban areas. The best way to find licensed providers is through the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) website, which has a searchable database called "COMPASS" or "Child Care Finder." You can also contact the Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 7, which serves Lancaster County, for personalized referrals and information on subsidy programs. Local community boards, churches like the Drumore United Methodist Church, and word-of-mouth from other parents in the Solanco School District are also valuable resources.
What is the average cost for full-time childcare in Drumore, and are there any financial assistance programs for local families?
In Drumore and the surrounding Lancaster County area, costs can vary. For a family childcare home, you might expect to pay between $180-$250 per week for full-time infant care, and slightly less for toddlers and preschoolers. Costs at a center, if available nearby, may be higher. Pennsylvania offers financial assistance through the Child Care Works (CCW) subsidy program, administered by the ELRC Region 7. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and reason for care (work, school, etc.). It's crucial to apply for this subsidy through the ELRC before selecting a provider, as not all providers accept it. Additionally, some local employers and charities may offer assistance, so it's worth inquiring within the community.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare in the Drumore area, and when should I start looking?
Given the limited number of providers in a rural township like Drumore, waitlists can be significant, especially for infant care. It is not uncommon for popular family childcare homes or nearby centers in towns like Quarryville or Peach Bottom to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months or more. We strongly recommend starting your search as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before your needed start date. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current waitlist length and policy. Being flexible with your start date and considering providers in neighboring communities can improve your chances of securing a spot.
What specific Pennsylvania state regulations and safety standards should I verify when touring a daycare in Drumore?
All licensed providers in Pennsylvania must comply with DHS regulations. Key things to verify include: 1) **Staff-to-Child Ratios and Group Sizes:** For example, for infants (0-1 yr), the ratio is 1:4 with a max group of 8. 2) **Background Checks:** All staff must have current FBI, State Police, and Child Abuse clearances. 3) **Health and Safety:** The facility should have a written emergency plan, safe sleep practices for infants, and proof of immunization for staff and children. 4) **Licensing:** Ask to see their current Certificate of Compliance (license) posted publicly. You can also check a provider's compliance history, including any violations, on the Pennsylvania DHS website. In a rural home setting, also inquire about well water testing and pet safety.
Are there any unique considerations for childcare in Drumore's rural setting that I should be aware of?
Yes, Drumore's rural character presents specific considerations. **Transportation** is a major one; most providers do not offer transportation, so you'll need to factor in travel time to and from a provider's home or a center in a neighboring town. **Weather closures** may be more frequent due to rural road conditions, so ask about the provider's inclement weather policy. **Outdoor play and nature-based learning** are often a strength of rural providers—ask about their outdoor space and safety. Finally, **availability** is the biggest challenge; you may need to expand your search to nearby towns like Quarryville, Holtwood, or even across the Susquehanna River in Maryland, which could involve different state regulations if you choose a provider there.
Childcare Insights for Drumore
Finding the right childcare is one of the most important decisions a family makes, and if you're a parent in Drumore, Pennsylvania, searching for "private daycares near me," you're likely seeking a nurturing environment that feels like a natural extension of your home. The rural charm and close-knit community of southern Lancaster County offer a unique backdrop for this search, where private daycares often emphasize personalized care and strong connections with families. While options within Drumore's immediate borders may be limited due to its township setting, the surrounding areas provide several wonderful private providers worth considering, blending the benefits of a structured program with the warmth of a smaller setting.
Your search will likely lead you to explore neighboring towns like Quarryville, the county seat, which serves as a central hub for services. Many families in Drumore find that the short commute to Quarryville opens up access to reputable private daycare centers and licensed home-based providers. These private options often boast lower child-to-teacher ratios than larger chains, which can mean more individualized attention for your little one. When researching, it's invaluable to tap into the local network. Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations at the Drumore Township building, the Solanco Fair, or from other parents at the Tucquan Park playground. Personal word-of-mouth in our community carries significant weight and can lead you to hidden gems.
As you compile a list of potential daycares in the Quarryville, Holtwood, or even Peach Bottom areas, consider scheduling visits. A key local consideration is the daily commute and how a provider's hours align with the rhythms of life in our area, which can include agricultural or variable work schedules. During your visit, notice if the environment feels safe and engaging, but also ask about their policies on outdoor play. A significant advantage of childcare in this region is the access to nature; the best programs incorporate the beautiful Lancaster County landscape into daily activities. Furthermore, inquire about their approach to communication. A good private daycare will prioritize keeping you informed, whether through daily logs, an app, or simple, personal conversations at pickup—a feature that aligns perfectly with the community-oriented spirit of Drumore.
Finally, trust your instincts as a parent. The right fit will be a place where you feel confident and welcomed, and where your child appears comfortable and curious. Verify that any provider is properly licensed through the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services and has clear safety protocols. Remember, choosing a private daycare near Drumore isn't just about finding childcare; it's about choosing a partner in your child's early development within the context of our distinctive community. Taking the time to visit, ask detailed questions, and connect with other local parents will guide you to a decision that brings peace of mind, knowing your child is in caring and capable hands close to home.