The Best Daycare Centers in Gifford, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Gifford. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Gifford
Jack & Jill Day Care Center
Jack & Jill Day Care Center
Jack & Jill Day Care Center is a highly-regarded facility located just 15 minutes from Gifford in Brookville. They offer a comprehensive educational program with a play-based learning approach that incorporates Creative Curriculum elements. The center features state-certified teachers with early childhood education degrees, maintaining excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Their facility includes secure, age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor playgrounds with safety surfaces, and a nutritious meal program. Special features include kindergarten readiness programs, regular developmental assessments, and strong parent communication through daily reports and parent-teacher conferences. The center has maintained an excellent safety record and is known for its warm, nurturing environment.
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Small World Child Care
Small World Child Care
Small World Child Care provides quality childcare services to families in the Gifford area with a focus on individualized development. Their curriculum blends Montessori-inspired activities with traditional early childhood education, emphasizing hands-on learning and social-emotional development. The center employs experienced staff with CPR/First Aid certification and ongoing professional development. Facilities include secure entry systems, camera monitoring in common areas, and well-equipped learning centers for different age groups. They offer a structured daily schedule that balances educational activities, creative expression, physical play, and rest periods. Parents consistently praise their transparent communication and the center's commitment to creating a home-like atmosphere while maintaining professional standards.
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The Learning Lamp
The Learning Lamp
The Learning Lamp is a respected regional childcare provider with multiple locations serving the Gifford area, located approximately 25 minutes away in DuBois. As a nonprofit organization, they focus on providing high-quality, accessible early childhood education. Their curriculum is research-based and aligns with Pennsylvania Early Learning Standards, incorporating STEM activities, literacy development, and social skills. The center features degreed lead teachers, low student-teacher ratios, and comprehensive safety protocols including secured facilities and regular safety drills. Their program includes enrichment activities like music, movement, and art, plus nutritious meals and snacks. The Learning Lamp is particularly noted for their inclusive environment and strong community partnerships, with many parents commending their professional approach and educational outcomes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Gifford, PA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Gifford, PA, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Gifford, 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). Family daycare homes caring for 4-6 unrelated children must be registered. Licensed facilities must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training in CPR, first aid, and child abuse recognition), health and safety inspections, and curriculum. To verify a provider's compliance and view any inspection reports, you can use the publicly accessible **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** tool online or contact the DHS's regional office serving McKean County, where Gifford is located. It's always recommended to ask the provider directly for their license certificate and their most recent DHS inspection report.
What is the average cost of full-time infant and toddler daycare in the Gifford area, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In the Gifford and surrounding McKean County region, full-time daycare costs can vary. For infant care, parents can expect to pay an average of **$800 to $1,100 per month**. Toddler care typically ranges from **$700 to $950 per month**. These rates are generally lower than in major Pennsylvania cities but are influenced by the type of facility (center vs. home-based) and the specific programs offered. Financial assistance is available through Pennsylvania's **Child Care Works (CCW) subsidized child care program**, which is income-based. Eligibility is determined by the County Assistance Office. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's important to inquire directly.
Are daycare waitlists common in Gifford, and how far in advance should I start looking for a spot?
While Gifford is a smaller community, quality licensed daycare slots, especially for infants and toddlers, can be limited and often have waitlists. This is due to lower provider density and strict staff-to-child ratios. It is highly advisable to begin your search **at least 6 to 9 months before you need care**, and if you are expecting, to start inquiring during your second trimester. Popular centers and highly recommended home-based providers in the area may have waitlists extending several months. When touring a facility, always ask about their current waitlist policy, estimated timeline, and if a deposit is required to hold a future spot.
What types of childcare settings are most commonly available in and around Gifford, PA?
Parents in Gifford will typically find three main types of licensed childcare settings. The most common are **licensed family childcare homes**, which offer a home-like environment with smaller groups, often with mixed ages. There are also **childcare centers**, which may be located in nearby larger towns like Bradford or Smethport, offering structured programs with multiple classrooms. Some local churches or community organizations may operate **preschool or early learning programs**, but these often serve children ages 3-5 and may offer only part-day schedules. Due to Gifford's rural nature, family daycare homes are a prevalent and convenient option, but many parents also commute to centers in neighboring communities for more extensive program offerings.
What local resources or organizations in McKean County can help me find and evaluate daycare options near Gifford?
A key local resource is the **Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 2**, which serves McKean County. The ELRC is your one-stop shop for finding licensed providers, understanding the Child Care Works subsidy program, and accessing referrals. They can be contacted by phone or through their website. Additionally, connecting with other parents through local community Facebook groups (e.g., "Gifford, PA Community" or "McKean County Moms") can provide invaluable word-of-mouth recommendations and insights into provider reputations. For evaluating quality, look for providers participating in Pennsylvania's **Keystone STARS** quality rating system—a higher STAR rating (1-4) indicates a commitment to exceeding state licensing standards in areas like learning environment and staff education.