The Best Daycare Centers in Eighty Four, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Eighty Four. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Eighty Four
The Goddard School of Canonsburg
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in nearby Canonsburg offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic readiness, social development, and creative expression. Their faculty includes highly-qualified teachers with degrees in early childhood education, and the facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, modern classrooms. The curriculum emphasizes literacy, STEM, arts, and character development through play-based learning. They maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios and provide regular parent communication through daily reports and a proprietary mobile app.
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Primrose School of Southpointe
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Southpointe provides Balanced Learning® curriculum that combines academic preparation with character development and play-based activities. Their accredited program features dedicated infant rooms with individualized care plans, STEM labs for older children, and outdoor learning environments. The school employs degreed early childhood educators and maintains state-exceeding safety protocols including secure access controls and comprehensive background checks. Their exclusive Harmony & Heart® program incorporates music, and they offer optional enrichment programs in Spanish, music, and gymnastics. The facility includes commercial-grade kitchens providing nutritious meals and snacks.
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Rainbow Child Care Center
Rainbow Child Care Center
Rainbow Child Care Center in Washington offers comprehensive early education programs with their proprietary Early Innovators® curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning and critical thinking skills. The center features secure, technology-enhanced classrooms with interactive whiteboards and developmentally appropriate learning centers. Their staff includes certified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development requirements. The program includes character education, foreign language exposure, and physical fitness components. They maintain rigorous health and safety standards including enhanced cleaning protocols and secure entry systems. Parent engagement is supported through regular conferences and real-time communication apps.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Eighty Four, PA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Eighty Four, PA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Eighty Four and the surrounding Washington County area, full-time daycare for an infant (under 18 months) typically ranges from $250 to $350 per week. For toddlers (18 months to 3 years), costs are slightly lower, averaging $225 to $300 per week. These rates can vary based on the type of facility (home-based vs. center-based) and the specific programs offered. For financial assistance, Pennsylvania's Child Care Works (CCW) subsidy program is the primary resource for eligible families. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (work, school, etc.). You can apply through the Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 5, which serves Washington County. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly.
How can I verify that a daycare or preschool in Eighty Four is properly licensed and check its compliance history?
All childcare providers in Pennsylvania, including those in Eighty Four, must be licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). To verify a provider's license and review its compliance history, you should use the state's official online tool called "COMPASS." You can search for a specific provider by name or location. This public database will show the license status, capacity, ages served, and any recent inspection reports, including citations for non-compliance. It's highly recommended to review these inspection reports, as they detail any regulatory violations and how they were corrected. You can also contact the local ELRC Region 5 office for guidance.
Are there many licensed home-based daycares (Family Child Care Homes) in Eighty Four, and what are their advantages for local families?
Licensed Family Child Care Homes (FCCHs) are a popular option in Eighty Four and its more rural surroundings, often offering a home-like environment with smaller group sizes. Their availability can vary, but they are a significant part of the local childcare landscape. Advantages for Eighty Four families often include more flexible hours that may accommodate shift work common in the area, potentially lower costs than larger centers, a mixed-age setting that can be beneficial for siblings, and a location closer to home, reducing commute time. To find licensed FCCHs, use the COMPASS search tool and filter for "Family Child Care Home." Networking through local community groups on social media or asking at the Eighty Four Post Office or community center can also yield personal recommendations.
What is the current waitlist situation for daycare centers in the Eighty Four area, and what strategies can I use to secure a spot?
Due to high demand and sometimes limited provider capacity in the region, waitlists for infant and toddler care at popular centers in and around Eighty Four can be long, often ranging from 6 to 12 months. It is crucial to begin your search and get on lists as early as possible, even during pregnancy. Strategies include contacting multiple providers (including those in nearby towns like Canonsburg or Washington), considering both centers and licensed home-based options to increase your chances, and getting on waitlists even if you are unsure—you can always decline later. Be proactive: follow up with providers every few months to confirm your spot on the list and express continued interest. Exploring newer facilities or those slightly further from the immediate Eighty Four area may also have shorter wait times.
What unique childcare or early learning programs are available in the Eighty Four area that cater to specific ages or interests?
While Eighty Four itself is a smaller community, families have access to programs in the broader Washington County region. Many local centers participate in Pennsylvania's Pre-K Counts or Head Start programs, which offer free, high-quality pre-kindergarten for eligible 3- and 4-year-olds. Some providers may also offer Pennsylvania Keystone STARS-rated programs, indicating a higher quality of early learning. For specific interests, you might find centers in nearby communities that incorporate nature-based learning, which aligns well with the area's rural setting, or programs with a focus on school readiness that partner with the Chartiers-Houston or McGuffey school districts. It's best to inquire directly with providers about their curriculum and any special enrichment activities, such as music, introductory Spanish, or motor skills programs.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Eighty Four: