The Best Daycare Centers in Glenolden, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Glenolden. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Glenolden
The Goddard School of Springfield
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Springfield offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their state-of-the-art facility features secure entry systems, multiple age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Certified teachers implement developmentally appropriate curriculum focusing on literacy, STEM, social skills, and physical development. The school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and provides daily communication to parents about their child's activities and progress. Their comprehensive safety protocols and nutritious meal programs make them a top choice for families in the Glenolden area.
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Chesterbrook Academy Preschool
Spring Education Group
Chesterbrook Academy provides a well-rounded educational experience with their Links to Learning curriculum that emphasizes academic readiness, character development, and social skills. The facility features bright, modern classrooms, secure playgrounds, and dedicated learning centers for different age groups. Their qualified teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The academy offers enrichment programs including music, Spanish, and physical education. With strong emphasis on parent partnership and comprehensive safety measures including secure entry systems and regular health screenings, they serve as a trusted childcare provider for Glenolden families.
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Kindercare Learning Center at Drexel Hill
KinderCare Education
KinderCare Learning Center at Drexel Hill offers a comprehensive early education program with research-based curriculum that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. Their experienced teaching staff implements age-appropriate learning activities across literacy, math, science, and creative arts. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, age-separated playgrounds, and well-equipped classrooms. They provide nutritious meals and snacks through their Kids Healthy Eating program. With flexible scheduling options and strong emphasis on communication through their mobile app, parents receive regular updates about their child's daily activities and developmental milestones. The center maintains excellent safety records and serves as a reliable childcare option for Glenolden residents.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Glenolden, PA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Glenolden, PA?
In Glenolden and the surrounding Delaware County area, full-time daycare costs can vary significantly based on the type of facility. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $1,200 and $1,600 per month for infant care. Toddler care typically ranges from $1,000 to $1,400 per month. In-home family daycare providers often offer slightly lower rates, generally between $800 and $1,200 monthly. These costs are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, and facility amenities. It's important to note that Pennsylvania's Child Care Works subsidy program is available for eligible families in Glenolden to help offset these expenses.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Glenolden?
All childcare providers in Glenolden must be licensed by the Pennsylvania 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, through the public-facing website **COMPASS**. Simply search for the provider by name or location. Additionally, you can contact the DHS's Southeast Regional Office, which oversees Delaware County, for specific questions. We strongly recommend visiting any potential daycare in person and asking to see their current certificate of compliance, which must be posted visibly.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Glenolden, and how far in advance should I apply?
Due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, waitlists are common at many licensed daycare centers in Glenolden and nearby communities like Folcroft and Norwood. For infant care (6 weeks to 12 months), it is advisable to begin your search and get on waitlists **6 to 12 months** before your needed start date. For toddler and preschool programs, a lead time of 3 to 6 months is more typical. When contacting centers, ask directly about their current waitlist length and if they offer priority for siblings or local residents. Exploring registered family daycare homes can sometimes offer more immediate availability.
What are some local resources for finding and comparing childcare options in Glenolden?
Parents in Glenolden have several excellent local resources. The primary resource is the **Delaware County Intermediate Unit (DCIU) Early Childhood Services**, which acts as a referral agency for the county. They can provide lists of licensed providers. Additionally, the website **Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 20** offers a searchable database of all certified providers, information on financial assistance, and resources on child development. For community-based insights, consider joining local Facebook groups like "Glenolden Community Forum" or "Delaware County Moms" to get personal recommendations and experiences from other parents.
What are the key differences between a daycare center and a family daycare home in Glenolden, and how do I choose?
In Glenolden, you'll find both licensed childcare centers and registered family daycare homes, each with distinct characteristics. **Daycare Centers** are typically larger facilities in commercial buildings, with multiple classrooms, structured curricula, and larger groups of children. They often have more staff with specialized training. **Family Daycare Homes** are operated out of the provider's residence, offering a smaller, home-like environment with mixed-age groups, which can be beneficial for siblings. They often provide more flexible hours. Your choice should depend on your child's temperament, your schedule, and your priorities (e.g., socialization vs. a cozy setting). Always ensure whichever you choose is properly licensed/registered with the state of Pennsylvania and aligns with your values through an in-person visit.