The Best Daycare Centers in Durham, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Durham. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Durham
The Goddard School of Newtown
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Newtown offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social-emotional learning with low student-to-teacher ratios. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The school is known for its strong communication with parents through daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences.
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Newtown Friends School
Newtown Friends School
Newtown Friends School provides a Quaker-based education with a strong emphasis on community, simplicity, and peaceful conflict resolution. The early childhood program focuses on hands-on learning, social development, and building foundational academic skills through play-based and project-based approaches. The school features small class sizes, experienced faculty with advanced degrees, and a beautiful campus with extensive outdoor learning spaces. Their program includes Spanish instruction, music, art, and physical education from preschool onward. The school maintains excellent safety protocols and has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and character development.
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Primrose School at Lower Makefield
Primrose Schools
Primrose School at Lower Makefield offers the Balanced Learning® approach, which combines teacher-directed and child-initiated activities with a focus on character development and academics. Their curriculum includes literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, and the arts, with specialized programs in music and foreign language. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, well-equipped classrooms. All teachers are trained in the Primrose curriculum and many hold degrees in early childhood education. The school is known for its strong parent communication through the Primrose Schools app and regular family events, creating a close-knit community atmosphere.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Durham, PA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Durham, Pennsylvania, and how can I verify a facility's compliance?
In Pennsylvania, all childcare providers 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). This includes family daycare homes and childcare centers. Licensed facilities in Durham must meet strict standards for staff qualifications (including background checks and training), child-to-staff ratios, health and safety procedures, and facility safety. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the free, public **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** tool online. You can search by provider name or location to see their license status, any recent inspection reports, and any regulatory violations. This is a crucial first step for parents in the Durham area.
What is the average cost of full-time infant daycare in Durham, PA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Durham area and surrounding Bucks County, full-time infant daycare typically ranges from **$1,200 to $1,600 per month**, depending on the type of facility (center vs. home-based) and the specific programs offered. Costs for toddlers and preschoolers are generally slightly lower. Pennsylvania offers financial assistance through the **Child Care Works (CCW) subsidized childcare program**, which is income-based. Eligibility is determined by the Bucks County Assistance Office. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's recommended to contact both the county assistance office and individual daycare centers to inquire about current rates and potential aid.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Durham, and how far in advance should I start looking for infant care?
Yes, waitlists are very common for infant care slots in Durham and the broader region, especially at highly-rated centers. Due to lower child-to-staff ratios required for infants, availability is often limited. It is strongly advised that expecting parents in Durham **begin their search and get on waitlists during the second trimester of pregnancy**, or at least 6-9 months before their needed start date. For toddler or preschool openings, a 3-6 month lead time is still recommended. When touring facilities, always ask about their specific waitlist process, any associated fees, and how often they update families on their position.
What are the main types of childcare options available to parents in Durham, PA?
Parents in Durham have several licensed options: 1. **Child Care Centers:** Larger facilities, often with structured curricula and multiple classrooms. Examples in the region may be located in nearby towns like Easton or Riegelsville. 2. **Group Child Care Homes:** Located in a provider's residence, licensed for 7-12 children. These often offer a more home-like setting. 3. **Family Child Care Homes:** Located in a provider's residence, licensed for 4-6 children. This is often the most intimate and flexible setting. Additionally, Durham is in a more rural part of Bucks County, so some families may also utilize **licensed in-home caregivers** or small, unregulated programs (caring for 3 or fewer children). Always prioritize licensed care for ensured health, safety, and oversight.
Beyond basic care, what educational or enrichment programs are typically offered by daycare centers in the Durham area?
Many daycare centers in the Bucks County region, including those serving Durham families, incorporate early learning frameworks. Common programs include: * **PA Early Learning Standards:** A state-guided curriculum focusing on literacy, math, science, and social skills. * **STEM/STEAM Activities:** Age-appropriate science and exploration. * **Nature-Based Learning:** Leveraging the rural and natural surroundings of Upper Bucks County for outdoor play and environmental education. * **Social-Emotional Learning:** Programs like Conscious Discipline or Second Step to help children manage emotions. When touring, ask about their educational philosophy (e.g., Montessori, Play-Based, Academic) and how they document and communicate your child's developmental progress. Some centers may also offer optional enrichment like basic music or movement classes.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Durham: