The Best Daycare Centers in Elizabeth, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Elizabeth. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Elizabeth
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in McKeesport serves the Elizabeth area with a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social development. Their play-based curriculum incorporates STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. Facilities feature secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All teachers hold early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences, with a focus on individualized learning plans for each child's developmental needs.
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Rainbow Child Development Center
Rainbow Child Development Center
Rainbow Child Development Center provides high-quality early childhood education serving families in the Elizabeth region. Their research-based curriculum focuses on whole-child development through structured learning centers, creative arts, and hands-on activities. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and employs degreed early childhood educators. Safety features include secured entry, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The facility offers nutritious meal programs, modern learning materials, and developmentally appropriate playgrounds. Parent involvement is encouraged through regular updates, family events, and progress assessments.
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The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Murrysville serves the greater Elizabeth area with their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that combines academic foundation with social skills and confidence building. The center features specialized programs including phonics, foreign language introduction, and manners/etiquette. Facilities include interactive whiteboards, secure monitored environments, and age-separated playgrounds. All staff are CPR and First Aid certified with ongoing training in early childhood development. The center provides regular parent communication through mobile apps and maintains high standards for cleanliness and safety protocols.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Elizabeth, PA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Elizabeth, PA, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Elizabeth, PA, all childcare facilities must be licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). This includes family childcare homes (caring for 4-6 children) and group childcare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet standards for health, safety, staff qualifications (including background checks and training), child-to-staff ratios, and facility safety. To verify a provider's license and view any compliance history or reported violations, you can use the DHS's **Child Care Finder** tool online or contact the Southwest Regional OCDEL office directly. It's highly recommended to check this public record before enrolling your child.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Elizabeth, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In the Elizabeth area and surrounding Allegheny County, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from **$1,000 to $1,400 per month**, while toddler care may range from **$900 to $1,200 per month**. Costs can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum, and staff credentials. For financial assistance, Pennsylvania's **Child Care Works (CCW)** subsidy program helps eligible low-income families pay for childcare. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (work, school, etc.). You can apply through the Allegheny County Assistance Office. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Elizabeth, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, waitlists at licensed daycare centers in Elizabeth can range from **3 to 9 months**, and sometimes longer for highly sought-after providers. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists **as early as possible during pregnancy or at least 6-12 months before your needed start date**. When contacting centers, ask specific questions about their waitlist process: Is there a fee? How often should you check in? Do they prioritize siblings or local residents? Being proactive and getting on multiple lists increases your chances of securing a spot when you need it.
Are there any unique local resources or referral services to help parents find and evaluate childcare options in Elizabeth?
Yes, a key local resource is **Trying Together** (formerly the Pittsburgh Association for the Education of Young Children). While based in Pittsburgh, they serve Allegheny County, including Elizabeth, and offer a **free, personalized child care referral service**. Their referral specialists can provide a list of licensed providers that match your specific needs (location, hours, age of child). Additionally, you can contact the **Allegheny County Department of Human Services** for information. For community-based insights, local Facebook groups like "Elizabeth, PA Community" can be useful for asking other parents for personal recommendations and experiences with specific centers or home-based providers.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare facility in Elizabeth, and are there any local safety considerations?
During a tour, observe the cleanliness, safety (outlet covers, secure gates, clean toys), and how staff interact with children. Ask about staff turnover, daily schedules, and emergency procedures. Specifically for Elizabeth, consider the facility's **pick-up/drop-off traffic flow** given the borough's layout and proximity to Route 51. Inquire about their policies for severe weather, as the region can experience flooding and winter storms. Also, ask if they participate in Pennsylvania's **Keystone STARS** quality rating program—a higher STAR rating (1-4) indicates a commitment to exceeding state licensing standards in areas like learning environment and staff education. Trust your instincts on the overall atmosphere and communication style of the director.