The Best Daycare Centers in Duncannon, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Duncannon. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Duncannon
The Learning Center at Bright Horizons - Harrisburg
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
This NAEYC-accredited center offers a comprehensive World at Their Fingertips curriculum that emphasizes language development, STEM learning, and social-emotional growth. Features highly qualified teachers with bachelor's degrees in early childhood education, secure keypad entry systems, and daily parent communication through the Bright Horizons mobile app. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, dedicated art and music rooms, and nutritious meal programs. Serves families commuting from Duncannon to the Harrisburg area with flexible full-time and part-time scheduling options.
Daycare Services:
Kindercare Learning Center - Mechanicsburg
KinderCare Education
This established KinderCare center provides a research-based curriculum focusing on literacy, math, science, and social skills development. Features low student-teacher ratios, secured entry systems, and regular safety drills. Certified teachers create individualized learning plans with progress tracking. The center offers enrichment programs including phonics, music, and Spanish instruction. Conveniently located near I-81 for Duncannon commuters, with extended hours and backup care options available for working families.
Daycare Services:
Children's Place Learning Centers - Marysville
Children's Place Learning Centers
This locally-owned center serves the Perry County area including Duncannon with a play-based learning approach that incorporates Creative Curriculum standards. Features state-certified teachers, secure facility with surveillance systems, and USDA-approved meal programs. The center emphasizes outdoor learning with nature exploration areas and gardening activities. Offers flexible scheduling with full-day and part-time options, plus transportation services for school-age children. Strong parent partnership program includes regular conferences and digital daily reports.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Duncannon, PA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Duncannon, PA?
In Duncannon and the surrounding Perry County area, full-time daycare costs are generally more affordable than in larger metropolitan areas of Pennsylvania, but they have been rising. For an infant (under 18 months), you can expect to pay between $175 and $250 per week for a licensed home-based daycare or a smaller center. For a toddler (18 months to 3 years), weekly rates typically range from $150 to $225. These rates often include meals and basic supplies. It's important to note that availability at these price points can be limited, and many providers have waitlists. Some centers in nearby Harrisburg or Mechanicsburg may charge more, so Duncannon remains a relatively cost-effective option for local families.
How do I verify that a daycare provider in Duncannon is properly licensed and inspected?
All childcare providers in Pennsylvania, including those in Duncannon, must be licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL), unless they are legally exempt (like certain religious programs or care by relatives). You can verify a provider's license status, view their compliance history, and read recent inspection reports online through the **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder (COMPASS)** website. Simply search by the provider's name, city, or zip code (17020). We strongly recommend checking this database for any violations or corrective plans. You can also contact the DHS regional office serving Perry County for additional verification.
Are there any daycare centers or preschools in Duncannon that offer before and after-school care for school-age children?
Yes, but options are specific due to Duncannon's size. The primary public school, **Susquenita Elementary School**, is located just across the river in Marysville. Some licensed home-based daycare providers in Duncannon may offer before and after-school care and provide transportation to and from the Susquenita schools. Additionally, organizations like the **Perry County Child Development Center** (with locations in nearby Newport and Blain) often provide school-age programs and may offer transportation routes that include Duncannon. It's crucial to inquire about transportation logistics directly with the provider, as this is a key service for families in this semi-rural area.
What is the average waitlist time for infant care at licensed facilities in the Duncannon area?
Due to high demand and limited slots for infants (which require a lower staff-to-child ratio), waitlist times in Duncannon and Perry County can be significant. It is common for parents to be placed on a waitlist 6 to 12 months before their needed start date. For popular providers, waitlists can extend beyond a year. We recommend contacting providers as early as possible during pregnancy. When you call, ask specifically about their infant room capacity, current waitlist length, and if they offer a "sibling priority" policy. Exploring both licensed group homes within Duncannon and centers in neighboring towns like Newport or Marysville can increase your options.
What local resources or agencies in Perry County can help me find and choose quality childcare?
The primary resource for Perry County families is the **Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 7**, which serves Cumberland, Dauphin, Perry, and six other counties. The ELRC offers a **Child Care Referral Specialist** who can provide a customized list of licensed and certified providers in the Duncannon area based on your specific needs (hours, age of child, etc.). They can also guide you through applying for the Child Care Works subsidy program if you qualify. You can contact ELRC Region 7 by phone or through their website. Additionally, the **Perry County Chamber of Commerce** may have listings for local businesses, including daycare providers.