The Best Daycare Centers in Elizabethtown, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Elizabethtown. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Elizabethtown
KinderCare at Elizabethtown
KinderCare Education
KinderCare at Elizabethtown offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with research-based curriculum focusing on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials, maintained low teacher-to-child ratios, and secure facility access with keypad entry. Their program includes daily learning reports for parents, nutritious meals and snacks, and age-appropriate outdoor play spaces. The center stands out for its balanced approach to education and care, with structured learning activities complemented by ample play time and individual attention.
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The Goddard School of Elizabethtown
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Elizabethtown provides a premier early childhood education experience with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic preparation with social development. The school features state-certified teachers, modern security systems including secured entry and surveillance, and purpose-built classrooms with advanced learning materials. Their curriculum emphasizes STEAM learning, language development, and social skills through play-based activities. The facility includes multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups and offers enrichment programs like yoga, music, and foreign language exposure.
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Little People Daycare & Preschool Center
Little People Daycare
Little People Daycare & Preschool Center is a locally-owned facility offering personalized care with a strong emphasis on early childhood development. The center implements Creative Curriculum® with hands-on learning activities that promote cognitive, physical, and social development. Staff members hold early childhood education degrees and receive ongoing professional development. The center maintains excellent health and safety standards with regular sanitization protocols, secure check-in/check-out procedures, and nutritious meal programs. Their intimate setting allows for strong family relationships and individualized attention, with comprehensive progress tracking and regular parent-teacher communication.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Elizabethtown, PA
What are the typical costs for daycare and preschool programs in Elizabethtown, PA?
In Elizabethtown, the cost of childcare varies based on the child's age and the type of program. For infants and toddlers, full-time daycare at a licensed center typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,500 per month. Preschool programs for children aged 3-5 are generally slightly less, averaging $900 to $1,200 per month. Home-based daycare providers in the area often offer more affordable rates, usually between $700 and $1,000 per month. It's important to note that costs can be higher for centers with specialized curricula or extended hours. Pennsylvania's Child Care Works subsidy program is available for eligible families in Lancaster County to help offset these expenses.
How do I verify that a daycare in Elizabethtown is properly licensed and what should I look for in inspection reports?
All childcare providers in Pennsylvania must be licensed by the Department of Human Services (DHS). You can verify a provider's license status and view their inspection reports through the Pennsylvania DHS Child Care Finder website or by calling the Child Care Certification Office for the Southeast Region, which covers Lancaster County. When reviewing reports for Elizabethtown providers, pay close attention to compliance history. Look for patterns of non-compliance, especially regarding staff-to-child ratios, safety violations, or health code issues. A clean record is ideal, but minor infractions that are promptly corrected are common. You can also contact the Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 7 for additional guidance on local providers.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Elizabethtown, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Yes, waitlists are common for many of the popular licensed daycare centers and preschools in Elizabethtown, particularly for infant care. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a move start their search and get on waitlists 6 to 12 months in advance. For preschool programs with a September start, inquiries should begin the prior winter. Some smaller home-based providers may have shorter wait times. To manage this, contact multiple providers, get on several lists, and follow up periodically. The Elizabethtown Area Community Services or the local ELRC can sometimes help identify providers with current openings.
What types of childcare options are available in Elizabethtown beyond traditional daycare centers?
Elizabethtown offers a variety of childcare options to suit different family needs. These include licensed group child care homes (caring for 7-12 children in a residence), family child care homes (caring for 4-6 children), and part-time preschools often affiliated with churches or community organizations. The Elizabethtown Area School District also offers a pre-kindergarten program for eligible families. Additionally, there are in-home nanny services and babysitting cooperatives, though these are not state-regulated. For school-age children, the Elizabethtown Area Recreation & Community Services department offers before and after-school care programs at certain elementary schools.
What resources are available in Elizabethtown to help me find and choose quality childcare?
The primary local resource is the Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 7, which serves Lancaster County. They offer a free referral service to help parents find licensed providers that match their needs, provide information on the Keystone STARS quality rating system, and assist with subsidy applications. You can also contact the Elizabethtown Area Chamber of Commerce for a list of local businesses, which includes childcare centers. For hands-on research, visit potential providers during open houses, ask for references from other Elizabethtown parents, and consult local community Facebook groups where parents often share firsthand experiences and recommendations.