The Best Daycare Centers in Enola, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Enola. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Enola
KinderCare at Enola
KinderCare Learning Companies
KinderCare at Enola provides comprehensive early childhood education with a research-based curriculum that focuses on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials and maintains low student-teacher ratios. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor play areas. The center emphasizes individualized learning plans and regular progress updates for parents, with strong safety protocols including background-checked staff and emergency preparedness training.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Enola
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Enola offers a play-based learning approach with F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum that balances academic preparation with social development. The center features state-certified teachers with ongoing professional development, modern security systems including keypad entry, and clean, well-maintained facilities. Programs include STEAM learning, language development, and character education. The school maintains excellent health and safety standards with comprehensive cleaning protocols and nutritionally balanced meal programs.
Daycare Services:
The Learning Center at Holy Name of Jesus
Holy Name of Jesus Parish
Located just minutes from Enola in Harrisburg, The Learning Center at Holy Name of Jesus provides faith-based early childhood education with a focus on whole-child development. The center features experienced educators with degrees in early childhood education and maintains small class sizes for individualized attention. Curriculum includes literacy development, mathematics, science exploration, and character education rooted in Christian values. The facility offers secure environments, modern learning materials, and age-appropriate playgrounds with comprehensive safety measures and regular parent communication.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Enola, PA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Enola, PA?
In Enola and the surrounding West Shore area of Cumberland County, full-time daycare costs vary based on the type of facility. For a licensed childcare center, you can expect to pay between $1,100 and $1,400 per month for infant care, and slightly less, around $1,000 to $1,300, for toddler care. In-home family daycare providers often offer more affordable rates, typically ranging from $800 to $1,100 per month. These costs are generally in line with the Pennsylvania state average but are often slightly lower than in nearby Harrisburg. It's important to ask what is included in the tuition, such as meals, snacks, diapers, and curriculum materials.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Enola?
All childcare providers in Pennsylvania, including those in Enola, must be licensed or registered with the Pennsylvania 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 (which note compliance or non-compliance with state regulations) through the publicly accessible **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** website. Simply search by the provider's name or zip code (17025). This tool is crucial for parents to review any cited violations related to health, safety, staff qualifications, and child-to-staff ratios before making a decision.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Enola, and how far in advance should I apply?
Yes, waitlists are common for infant and toddler spots at highly regarded centers in Enola and the West Shore. Due to high demand and limited infant-to-staff ratios mandated by the state, it is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin researching and touring facilities during their second trimester. Many families put their names on waitlists 6 to 9 months before their needed start date. For in-home family daycares, availability can be more sporadic, but it's still wise to start your search at least 4-6 months ahead. Be sure to ask about the waitlist policy, including any deposit required and how often you need to confirm your continued interest.
What local resources or referral services are available to help me find childcare in Enola?
A primary resource for Cumberland County parents is the **Capital Area Child Care Information Service (CCIS)**, which is part of the Pennsylvania Keys to Quality system. While based in Harrisburg, they serve Enola residents. They can provide referrals to licensed providers that match your needs (location, hours, age of child) and also administer subsidy programs for income-eligible families. Additionally, local Facebook groups like "West Shore Moms" or "Enola, PA Community" are often used by parents to get personal recommendations and learn about openings in smaller, in-home daycares that may not advertise widely.
What are some key factors to consider when choosing between a daycare center and a family home daycare in Enola?
Your choice depends on your family's priorities. **Daycare Centers** in Enola (like chains or local centers) often offer structured curricula, multiple classrooms by age, and larger facilities with dedicated outdoor spaces. They may have more backup staff, reducing closures. **Family Home Daycares** provide a home-like setting with mixed-age groups, often offering more flexible hours and potentially lower costs. They may be more convenient for families seeking care in their immediate neighborhood. For either option, ensure they are DHS-licensed, check their inspection reports, and consider practicalities like their proximity to your home or commute routes (like Route 11/15 or I-81), their sick/closure policies, and the overall vibe you get during a visit.