The Best Daycare Centers in Everson, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Everson. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Everson
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Connellsville offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Features state-certified teachers, low student-to-teacher ratios, and comprehensive security systems including keypad entry and CCTV monitoring. Curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social development with daily progress reports via electronic communication. Facilities include age-appropriate playgrounds, modern classrooms with natural lighting, and dedicated art/music spaces. Serves families throughout the Connellsville area including Everson residents.
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Mount Pleasant Child Care Center
Independent
Family-owned childcare center serving the Mount Pleasant area including Everson families. Features Pennsylvania Early Learning Standards-aligned curriculum with emphasis on hands-on learning and social-emotional development. Staff includes certified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development. Safety protocols include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and emergency preparedness training. Offers nutritious meals and snacks through their in-house food program. Features outdoor nature exploration areas, indoor gross motor room, and technology-integrated learning stations for preschool ages.
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Connellsville Head Start
Community Action Partnership of Fayette County
Federally-funded comprehensive early childhood program serving low-income families in the Connellsville School District area including Everson. Provides research-based curriculum focusing on school readiness, literacy development, and social skills. Features highly-qualified teaching staff with bachelor's degrees in early childhood education and special education certifications. Offers family support services, health and dental screenings, nutrition programs, and disability inclusion services. Maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios and follows strict safety protocols with regular state licensing inspections.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Everson, PA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Everson, PA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Everson and the surrounding Fayette County area, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $175 to $250 per week, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging $150 to $225 per week. These costs can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum, and staff-to-child ratios. For financial assistance, Pennsylvania's Child Care Works (CCW) subsidy program is the primary resource for eligible families. You can apply through the Fayette County Assistance Office. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's highly recommended to inquire directly with providers and apply for CCW early, as processing can take time.
How can I verify that a daycare or home-based childcare provider in Everson is properly licensed and has a good compliance record?
All licensed childcare providers in Pennsylvania are regulated by the Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). You can verify a provider's license and review their compliance history, including any reported violations or inspections, through the publicly accessible **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** website. Simply search by the provider's name or zip code (15432 for Everson). This tool shows their star rating (1-4 stars) based on quality standards. For home-based "Family Child Care" providers, ensure they are registered or licensed; unregistered care is not monitored for health and safety standards. Always visit in person and ask to see their current certificate of compliance.
Given Everson's more rural setting, what are the main types of childcare options available, and are waitlists common?
Everson offers a mix of childcare options, though choices may be more limited than in urban centers. Your primary options are: 1) Licensed Child Care Centers, often located in nearby towns like Connellsville or Mount Pleasant; 2) Registered Family Child Care Homes within Everson or neighboring communities, which offer a home-like setting; and 3) Pre-K Counts or Head Start programs for eligible 3-5 year olds, which are free. Due to the limited number of providers, waitlists, especially for infant care, are very common and can be several months long. It's advisable to begin your search and get on multiple lists at least 6-9 months before you need care.
Are there any state or local programs in Pennsylvania that offer free or low-cost pre-kindergarten for 3-4 year olds in the Everson area?
Yes, there are two key state-funded programs for which Everson residents may qualify. **Pre-K Counts** provides free, high-quality pre-K to 3- and 4-year-olds from low- and moderate-income families. These programs are often hosted by local school districts or childcare centers. **Head Start** and **Early Head Start** (for infants/toddlers) provide comprehensive early education, health, and family support services. These programs are administered through community action agencies like the Southwestern Pennsylvania Human Services, Inc., which serves Fayette County. Eligibility is based on family income. Contact the Connellsville Area School District or the local Head Start grantee for application details and location availability.
What should I look for and ask about during a tour of a daycare center or home daycare in Everson, considering Pennsylvania's specific regulations?
Beyond general cleanliness and a welcoming atmosphere, focus on Pennsylvania-specific standards. Ask about: 1) **Staff-to-Child Ratios**: PA law requires 1:4 for infants, 1:5 for young toddlers, and 1:10 for preschoolers. Lower ratios are a quality indicator. 2) **Staff Qualifications**: Inquire if lead teachers have Associate's or Bachelor's degrees in Early Childhood Ed, as required for higher STAR 3 or 4 ratings. 3) **Safety Plans**: Ask to see their Emergency Preparedness Plan and how they handle drills. 4) **Outdoor Play**: Given Everson's setting, ask about secure, fenced outdoor space and daily outdoor time policy. 5) **Communication**: Ask how they use the state's recommended learning standards (PA Early Learning Standards) to inform activities and how they report your child's progress. Always request references from current parents.
Childcare Insights for Everson
Finding reliable and affordable child care near you can feel like a daunting task, especially when you're balancing a budget and the desire for quality care for your little one. For parents in Everson, Pennsylvania, this search is deeply personal, rooted in our close-knit community values and the practical realities of living in a smaller borough within Fayette County. The good news is that with a bit of local knowledge and a strategic approach, securing nurturing and affordable childcare in our area is an achievable goal.
Start your search by looking close to home, quite literally. Everson’s residential nature means that many excellent childcare providers operate as licensed family daycare homes right in our neighborhoods. These smaller settings often offer more flexible hours and lower rates than larger centers, with the added benefit of a home-like environment. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations at the Everson Borough building, the Connellsville Area Community Ministries, or while chatting with other parents at the local playground. Word-of-mouth is a powerful tool here, often leading you to trusted caregivers who may not have a large online presence but are pillars of our community.
While Everson itself is small, expanding your search to the surrounding Connellsville area or even Scottdale can open up more options. Many parents in Everson find that a short commute to a neighboring town provides access to more childcare centers, which might offer sliding scale fees based on income or have partnerships with state assistance programs. It’s crucial to investigate Pennsylvania’s child care subsidy program, often called Child Care Works. This state-funded program helps eligible families pay for childcare, making many local providers significantly more affordable. You can apply through the Fayette County Assistance Office, and a caseworker can help you understand the co-pay system, which is based on your family size and income.
When evaluating affordability, look beyond the weekly rate. Consider the value included in the cost. Does the provider include meals and snacks, or will you need to pack them? Are there any extra registration or activity fees? A slightly higher weekly rate that includes all essentials might ultimately be more economical and convenient than a base rate with many add-ons. Also, be sure to ask about any potential discounts. Some providers in our area offer reduced rates for siblings, for upfront monthly payments, or for employees of local businesses and schools.
Finally, trust your instincts during visits. Affordable care should never mean compromising on safety, warmth, or a stimulating environment. Observe how the caregivers interact with the children, check that the space is clean and child-proofed, and verify their Pennsylvania state licensing is current. Finding the right fit in Everson is about connecting with someone who understands the rhythm of our community and shares your commitment to your child’s well-being. With patience and these local insights, you can find a childcare solution that brings peace of mind to your family and a happy, secure start for your child right here in our corner of Pennsylvania.