The Best Daycare Centers in East Texas, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in East Texas. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in East Texas
KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education
KinderCare Learning Center in Allentown provides a comprehensive early childhood education program with a play-based learning approach aligned with Pennsylvania early learning standards. The center features highly qualified teachers with degrees in early childhood education and maintains low teacher-to-child ratios for personalized attention. Their curriculum includes literacy development, STEM activities, and social-emotional learning through structured play. Safety is prioritized with secure entry systems, daily health checks, and rigorous cleanliness protocols. The facility offers age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play areas, and nutritious meal programs. Parent communication is enhanced through regular updates and developmental progress reports, making it a trusted choice for families in the Lehigh Valley area.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Allentown utilizes the F.L.EX. (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum that balances academic readiness with creative play and social development. Staff members hold early childhood education credentials and participate in ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes safety with keypad entry, video monitoring, and comprehensive emergency procedures. Classrooms are designed with learning centers for literacy, math, and art, complemented by outdoor playgrounds and enrichment programs like yoga and music. Parent engagement is supported through daily communication apps and family events. Their focus on individualized learning plans and kindergarten preparedness has earned high parent satisfaction in the region.
Daycare Services:
Lehigh Valley Children's Centers - Hanover Avenue
Lehigh Valley Children's Centers
Lehigh Valley Children's Centers operates as a non-profit organization delivering high-quality early childhood education with a focus on school readiness and family support. The Hanover Avenue location implements a research-based curriculum that incorporates literacy, mathematics, and social skills through hands-on activities. Qualified teachers with CPR and first aid certification maintain small class sizes and individualized attention. The center features secure facilities, nutritious meals meeting USDA guidelines, and inclusive environments supporting diverse learners. LVCC's strong community partnerships and parent involvement programs, along with their commitment to affordable care, make them a standout option for East Texas area families seeking comprehensive childcare services.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in East Texas, PA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in East Texas, PA, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
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 East Texas must meet strict standards for staff qualifications (including background checks and training), child-to-staff ratios, safety protocols, and facility requirements. You can verify a provider's license status and view any compliance history or reported violations by using the free, public **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** tool online. It's highly recommended to choose a licensed provider to ensure state-mandated health, safety, and educational standards are met.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in East Texas, PA?
Childcare costs in East Texas and the broader region of Pennsylvania vary by the child's age and the type of program. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay an average of **$11,000 to $14,000 annually** for full-time infant care. Toddler care is slightly less, typically ranging from **$10,000 to $12,500 per year**. Family daycare homes often offer more affordable rates, which may be 10-20% lower. These costs are significant, so it's important to inquire about financial assistance. Pennsylvania offers subsidy programs through the **Child Care Works (CCW)** program for eligible families based on income, and some local providers may offer sibling discounts or flexible payment plans.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in East Texas, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common for high-quality, licensed childcare centers and popular family daycare homes in East Texas and the surrounding Lehigh Valley area. Due to high demand and limited infant/toddler slots, it is strongly advised to begin your search **at least 6 to 12 months before you need care**. For infant care, starting your search during pregnancy is not uncommon. When touring facilities, always ask about their current waitlist length, the deposit policy to hold a spot (which is often non-refundable), and how frequently they update families on their position. Being proactive and getting on multiple lists can increase your chances of securing a spot when needed.
What types of childcare programs are most commonly available in East Texas, PA?
Parents in East Texas typically have access to several types of licensed childcare options. These include: 1. **Childcare Centers:** Larger facilities, often with structured curricula, multiple classrooms, and more staff. Several operate in the broader area. 2. **Group/Family Childcare Homes:** A provider cares for children in their own home for up to 12 children. These often offer a more home-like environment and may have more flexible hours. 3. **Pre-K Counts and Head Start Programs:** These are state and federally funded, income-eligible programs that provide high-quality pre-kindergarten education, often at no cost. Availability is based on specific eligibility requirements. Additionally, some local churches and community organizations may offer preschool or part-day programs for older toddlers and preschoolers.
What local resources or organizations in East Texas can help me find and evaluate childcare options?
The primary resource for all Pennsylvania families is the **Pennsylvania Keys to Quality Early Learning** system. You can contact your regional **Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC)**. For East Texas (located in Lehigh County), this is **ELRC Region 20**. They provide free, personalized referrals to licensed and certified providers, help families apply for the Child Care Works subsidy, and offer guidance on quality indicators. You can reach them online or by phone. Additionally, local parenting groups on social media platforms like Facebook can provide personal recommendations and insights into the experiences other East Texas area parents have had with specific providers. Always complement these recommendations with your own research and visits.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near East Texas: