The Best Daycare Centers in Edgemont, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Edgemont. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Edgemont
The Goddard School of West Chester
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in West Chester offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their state-of-the-art facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play spaces. Highly qualified teachers implement STEAM learning, language development, and social-emotional curriculum. The school maintains low student-teacher ratios and provides daily communication to parents through their proprietary app. Their comprehensive safety protocols and nutritious meal programs make them a top choice for families in the Edgemont area.
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Chesterbrook Academy Preschool
Spring Education Group
Chesterbrook Academy provides a well-rounded private school education beginning in infancy through elementary years. Their research-based curriculum emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and character development. The facility features dedicated learning centers, technology-integrated classrooms, and secure outdoor playgrounds. Certified teachers implement individualized learning plans and maintain comprehensive progress tracking. The academy offers extended hours, summer enrichment programs, and transportation services. Their focus on developing critical thinking skills and fostering independence prepares children for academic success while serving the broader West Chester/Edgemont community.
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The Goddard School of Exton
Goddard Systems, Inc.
Located just minutes from Edgemont, The Goddard School of Exton offers a balanced approach to early childhood education with their proprietary F.L.EX.® Learning Program. The school features modern security systems, climate-controlled playgrounds, and bright, engaging classrooms. Their curriculum includes Mandarin Chinese instruction, yoga, music, and hands-on science activities. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes whole-child development through literacy-rich environments, STEM activities, and character education. Their flexible scheduling and comprehensive safety measures make them a trusted choice for area families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Edgemont, PA
What are the typical costs for full-time infant daycare in Edgemont, PA, and are there any local resources to help with affordability?
In Edgemont and the surrounding Delaware County area, full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,800 per month. Prices vary based on the type of center (corporate chain vs. in-home licensed family care), staff-to-child ratios, and included amenities like meals or curriculum. To help with these costs, Pennsylvania offers the Child Care Works (CCW) subsidized childcare program for eligible families based on income and need. Additionally, some local centers may offer sibling discounts. It's highly recommended to contact the Delaware County Assistance Office or visit COMPASS, the state's online benefits portal, to check eligibility for subsidies.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare center or family childcare home in Edgemont?
All childcare providers in Pennsylvania must be licensed by the Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). You can verify a provider's license status and view their most recent inspection reports, including any compliance issues or violations, through the publicly accessible **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** website. Simply search by provider name, city (Edgemont), or zip code. This tool is crucial for parents to ensure a facility meets state health, safety, and educational standards. You can also contact the Southeast Regional OCDEL office, which oversees Delaware County, for further verification.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Edgemont, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Yes, waitlists are very common, especially for infant rooms and highly regarded centers in the Edgemont area. Due to high demand and regulated staff-to-child ratios, spots can fill up months in advance. It is strongly advised to begin your search and tour facilities **at least 6 to 12 months before your needed start date**, particularly for infant care. Many parents put their unborn children on waitlists. When contacting centers, be sure to ask about their specific waitlist process, any associated fees, and how often you should check in to maintain your position.
What are the main differences between a daycare center and a licensed group/family home in Edgemont, and how do I choose?
Daycare centers in Edgemont are typically larger facilities in commercial or dedicated buildings, often following a structured curriculum with multiple classrooms divided by age. Licensed group/family homes operate out of a caregiver's residence, caring for a smaller, mixed-age group of children (up to 12, including the provider's own, with assistants). Centers may offer more resources and a social environment with many peers, while family homes often provide a more intimate, home-like setting with potentially more flexible hours. Your choice depends on your child's temperament, your schedule, and your preference for environment. Always ensure whichever you choose is fully licensed and has a clean inspection history.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare facility in Edgemont?
Beyond checking for general cleanliness and safety (outlet covers, secure gates), focus on key local and state-specific factors. Observe staff-child interactions—are they engaged and responsive? Check for visible posting of the current **PA DHS license**, emergency evacuation plans, and menus meeting nutritional guidelines. Ask about staff qualifications and turnover rates. Inquire about their policies for sick children, given Pennsylvania's exclusion guidelines for illnesses like COVID-19, flu, and hand-foot-mouth disease. Notice if the outdoor play area is secure and age-appropriate. Finally, trust your instincts about the atmosphere and how the director answers your questions about their daily routine and security protocols.