The Best Daycare Centers in Fleetville, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Fleetville. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Fleetville
The Learning Experience - Clarks Summit
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Clarks Summit offers a comprehensive early childhood education program with proprietary L.E.A.P. curriculum that focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and comprehensive monitoring. Certified early childhood educators provide developmentally appropriate activities with low student-teacher ratios. The facility includes modern classrooms, indoor play areas, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Their enrichment programs include music, yoga, and philanthropy lessons, creating a well-rounded educational experience just 15 minutes from Fleetville.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Clarks Summit
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Clarks Summit provides a play-based learning environment with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. The center employs degreed teachers who create individualized learning plans for each child. Safety features include secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. The curriculum emphasizes STEAM learning, language development, and creative expression through hands-on activities. Located just 4 miles from Fleetville, this center offers flexible scheduling options and maintains strong parent communication through daily reports and digital updates.
Daycare Services:
Childtime of Scranton
Childtime Learning Centers
Childtime of Scranton offers a research-based curriculum that focuses on school readiness through their Emergent Curriculum approach, adapting to children's interests and developmental needs. The center features age-appropriate learning centers, secure facilities with electronic entry systems, and trained staff in CPR and first aid. Their program includes technology integration, foreign language exposure, and character development activities. The center maintains small class sizes with qualified early childhood educators and provides nutritious meals and snacks. Located approximately 12 miles from Fleetville, they offer convenient hours and comprehensive care for children from infancy through school age.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Fleetville, PA
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Fleetville, PA, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Fleetville, as part of Pennsylvania, all childcare centers and group daycare homes must be licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). This license ensures they meet state standards for staff-to-child ratios, safety inspections, staff background checks, and health requirements. Family daycare homes serving 4-6 children from different families must also be registered. You can verify a provider's license status and view any compliance history for free through the DHS public website or by calling the OCDEL regional office serving Lackawanna County. It's a critical first step for any parent in Fleetville to ensure their child's safety.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Fleetville, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Fleetville and surrounding Lackawanna County area, average costs for full-time, center-based infant care typically range from $900 to $1,200 per month. Toddler care is slightly less, often between $800 and $1,050 monthly. Home-based daycare may offer more affordable options, sometimes $100-$200 less. These rates are generally lower than in major Pennsylvania cities but are a significant household expense. For financial assistance, Pennsylvania's Child Care Works (CCW) subsidy program is the primary resource. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need (like employment or school). You can apply through the Lackawanna County Assistance Office. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Fleetville, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Waitlists in Fleetville can vary significantly. For highly sought-after centers or for infant rooms (which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios), waitlists of 6 to 12 months are not uncommon. For toddler or preschool spots, it might be 3 to 6 months. Given Fleetville's more rural/suburban setting with fewer large centers compared to Scranton, planning ahead is crucial. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a return to work begin touring facilities and getting on waitlists during the second trimester of pregnancy, or at least 9-12 months before their needed start date. Don't hesitate to get on multiple lists, but be aware some may charge a small fee.
Are there any unique childcare options in Fleetville that cater to families with non-traditional work hours or agricultural backgrounds?
Yes, Fleetville's semi-rural character influences local childcare options. While standard 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM center hours are common, there is a higher prevalence of licensed family daycare homes that may offer more flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, or occasional weekend care, which can be vital for parents in healthcare, retail, or shift work. Furthermore, given the area's agricultural presence, some providers are more experienced with and accommodating of seasonal schedule changes or parents involved in farming. It's important to explicitly ask about flexibility during tours. There are also a few registered part-day preschool programs that partner with home providers to offer full-day wrap-around care.
What resources are available in Fleetville to help me evaluate and choose between different daycare programs?
Parents in Fleetville have several valuable local resources. First, the **Scranton-Lackawanna Human Development Agency (SLHDA)** acts as the local Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) for Region 9. They provide free referrals, quality ratings (through the Keystone STARS program), and guidance on choosing care. You can search their database for providers in the 18420 zip code. Second, always schedule in-person tours to observe cleanliness, child engagement, and ask about curriculum. Third, connect with local parent networks on community Facebook groups (e.g., "Fleetville Area Community") for firsthand recommendations and experiences. Finally, check each program's Keystone STAR rating (1-4), which indicates their level of commitment to quality beyond basic licensing.