The Best Daycare Centers in Fort Washington, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Fort Washington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Fort Washington
The Goddard School of Fort Washington
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Fort Washington offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their play-based curriculum focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, and arts, delivered by qualified teachers with early childhood education degrees. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. What sets this center apart is their focus on STEAM learning, daily communication with parents through their proprietary app, and comprehensive safety protocols including regular staff training and emergency preparedness drills.
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Chesterbrook Academy Preschool
Spring Education Group
Chesterbrook Academy in nearby Blue Bell serves the Fort Washington community with a comprehensive educational program that emphasizes academic readiness and character development. Their research-based curriculum includes literacy development, mathematics, science exploration, and social-emotional learning. The center features low student-teacher ratios, certified early childhood educators, and secure facilities with monitored access. Special programs include foreign language exposure, music education, and technology integration. The academy stands out for their focus on individualized learning plans, regular progress assessments, and strong parent partnership through monthly curriculum updates and parent-teacher conferences.
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Primrose School of Collegeville
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Collegeville serves the greater Fort Washington area with their Balanced Learning® approach that combines purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. Their accredited curriculum focuses on building independence, confidence, and resilience while developing fundamental academic skills. The school features secure facilities with age-appropriate learning environments, outdoor playgrounds, and dedicated art and music spaces. What makes Primrose exceptional is their character development program, hands-on learning experiences, and commitment to health and safety with strict hygiene protocols and nutritious meal programs. They maintain strong communication with families through daily reports and regular developmental updates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Fort Washington, PA
What are the typical costs for full-time infant daycare in Fort Washington, PA, and what factors influence the price?
In Fort Washington and the surrounding Montgomery County area, full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $1,400 to $2,200 per month. The cost is influenced by several factors specific to our locale. Center-based programs, especially those affiliated with corporate campuses or offering specialized educational philosophies (like Montessori), tend to be at the higher end. Home-based family childcare in residential neighborhoods like those off Pennsylvania Avenue or Bethlehem Pike may offer more affordable rates. Additional costs often include registration fees, supply fees, and charges for early drop-off or late pick-up. Pennsylvania's required staff-to-child ratios for infants (1:4) contribute to the higher cost compared to care for older children. It's advisable to inquire about what is included in tuition, such as diapers, wipes, and formula, as this varies.
How long are waitlists for quality daycare centers in Fort Washington, and when should I start looking?
For the most sought-after daycare centers and preschools in Fort Washington, waitlists can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 18 months, especially for infant rooms. Popular centers near major employers or in highly residential areas frequently have long lists. To secure a spot, it is strongly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as your second trimester of pregnancy. Many parents in the area tour multiple facilities and place deposits on multiple waitlists. For preschool programs (ages 3-5), applying 9-12 months before your desired start date, often in the fall prior to the start year, is standard. Staying in consistent contact with the centers on your list can improve your chances.
What are the key differences between Pennsylvania-licensed daycare centers and certified family childcare homes in Fort Washington?
In Fort Washington, parents have two primary licensed/certified options. **Daycare Centers** are licensed by the PA Department of Human Services (DHS) and operate in commercial or dedicated spaces. They often have multiple classrooms, larger groups of children, structured curricula, and multiple staff members. **Certified Family Child Care Homes** are run out of a provider's residence in local neighborhoods. They are certified by DHS and offer a smaller, home-like setting with mixed-age groups, often with more flexible hours. Both are subject to state regulations for health, safety, and staff qualifications, but ratios differ (e.g., 1:4 for infants in centers vs. 1:6 in a family home, with no more than 6 total children). Your choice may depend on whether you prefer a more institutional educational environment or a smaller, family-style setting.
Are there any local resources or referral services specifically for Fort Washington parents to find and evaluate childcare?
Yes, the primary resource is **Child Care Information Services of Montgomery County (CCIS)**. This state-subsidized agency provides free referrals to licensed and certified providers in Fort Washington and throughout the county. They maintain an up-to-date database and can help you search based on your specific needs (location, hours, age of child). Additionally, many local parents rely on community networks like the **Fort Washington Mothers' Club** or neighborhood Facebook groups (e.g., "Fort Washington, PA Community") for personal recommendations and insights into provider reputations. The **Pennsylvania DHS website** also has a public search tool for licensed providers, allowing you to check compliance history and inspection reports.
What should I look for during a daycare tour in Fort Washington, and what local-specific questions should I ask?
During a tour, observe cleanliness, child engagement, and staff-child interactions. Ask specific questions like: "What is your staff turnover rate?" (Low turnover is crucial for consistency); "What is your policy for outdoor play, and where do children go?" (Given Fort Washington's mix of commercial and residential spaces, some centers may use on-site playgrounds while others walk to local parks); "How do you handle emergency situations and communicate with parents?" (Inquire about their plan for severe weather or other local incidents); "Are you a **Keystone STARS** participant?" (This PA quality rating system indicates a commitment to exceeding minimum standards); and "What is your typical daily schedule for my child's age group?" Also, ask about their sick policy and how they handle the common cold/flu season, which can be a major disruption for working parents in the area.