The Best Daycare Centers in Gordon, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Gordon. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Gordon
Kiddie Academy of State College
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of State College provides comprehensive educational childcare with a structured Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and social-emotional learning. The facility features secure entry systems, certified teachers with early childhood education degrees, and age-appropriate learning environments. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and offer nutritious meal programs. The academy is known for its strong parent communication through daily digital reports and regular parent-teacher conferences, serving families throughout the Centre County region including Gordon area residents.
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Discovery Space of Central Pennsylvania
Discovery Space
Discovery Space offers a unique science-focused early childhood education program that integrates hands-on STEM learning with traditional preschool curriculum. Their inquiry-based approach encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills from an early age. The facility features interactive exhibits, dedicated classroom spaces, and outdoor learning areas. All lead teachers hold degrees in education or science fields, and the center maintains excellent safety protocols with secure facilities. They serve families throughout central Pennsylvania, including Gordon, with transportation options available for school-age programs.
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The Goddard School of State College
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in State College provides a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum that balances academic preparation with social development. The school features purpose-built classrooms, secure keypad entry systems, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Their faculty includes certified teachers with ongoing professional development, and they maintain low child-to-teacher ratios. The program emphasizes literacy development, creative arts, and technology integration while providing flexible scheduling options that accommodate commuting families from Gordon and surrounding communities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Gordon, PA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Gordon, PA, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Gordon, 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. Licensing ensures providers meet standards for staff qualifications (including background checks and training), child-to-staff ratios, safety inspections, and health protocols. To verify a facility's compliance, you can use the **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** tool online or contact the DHS Northeast Regional Office. It's also wise to ask the provider directly for their license certificate and their most recent inspection report, which they are required to post.
What is the average cost of full-time infant daycare in Gordon, PA, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In the Gordon area and surrounding Schuylkill County, the average cost for full-time infant daycare typically ranges from **$800 to $1,100 per month**. Prices can vary based on the type of facility (center vs. home-based), specific location, and included amenities. For financial assistance, Pennsylvania's **Child Care Works (CCW)** subsidy program is the primary resource for eligible families. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (work, school, etc.). You can apply through the COMPASS website or your local County Assistance Office. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Gordon, and what can I do to secure a spot for my child?
Due to limited provider options in a smaller community like Gordon, waitlists for infant and toddler spots, especially at highly-rated centers, can be significant. It's common to encounter waitlists of **6 to 12 months**, or even longer. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Contact multiple providers (including licensed family homes in the area) to get on their lists. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee, which is standard practice. Stay in regular, polite contact with providers every few months to express continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to nearby towns like Ashland, Frackville, or Pottsville for more options.
What are the main types of childcare options available specifically in the Gordon area?
Parents in Gordon have several types of licensed/regulated options to consider. These include: 1) **Child Care Centers**: These are larger facilities, often with structured curricula and multiple classrooms. Options may be limited directly in Gordon, but available in neighboring communities. 2) **Group Child Care Homes**: Registered homes that care for 7-12 children; these can offer a more home-like setting with slightly more capacity. 3) **Family Child Care Homes**: Registered homes caring for 4-6 children, providing a very intimate, family-oriented environment. This is a common model in residential areas like Gordon. Additionally, you may find **Part-Day or Nursery School** programs for preschoolers. Due to Gordon's rural nature, informal care through relatives or neighbors is also prevalent, but it's crucial to ensure any caregiver meets state safety standards.
Are there any unique local resources or organizations in Schuylkill County that help parents find and evaluate childcare near Gordon?
Yes, a key local resource is the **Schuylkill County Child Development (SCCD)** program, which administers Head Start, Early Head Start, and Pre-K Counts in the area. While these are specific programs, their staff are deeply knowledgeable about the local childcare landscape. For referral and evaluation help, parents should contact the **Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 12**, which serves Schuylkill County. The ELRC offers free, personalized referrals to licensed providers, helps with Child Care Works applications, and provides information on quality indicators. They can be reached via phone or their website. Additionally, local Facebook community groups (e.g., "Gordon, PA Community") can be useful for gathering personal recommendations from other parents.