The Best Daycare Centers in Harleigh, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Harleigh. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Harleigh
KinderCare Learning Center at Hazle Township
KinderCare Education
This NAEYC-accredited center offers comprehensive early childhood education with research-based curriculum including phonics-based reading programs, math and science exploration, and social-emotional development. Features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and certified teachers with ongoing professional development. The center emphasizes individualized learning plans and maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Nutrition program includes healthy meals and snacks, with strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Hazleton
Goddard Systems, Inc.
This FLEX Learning Program center focuses on play-based learning with STEAM curriculum integration. Features include secure keypad entry, live streaming for parents, and modern classroom technology. All lead teachers hold four-year degrees in education or related fields, with ongoing training in child development. The facility includes multiple age-appropriate playgrounds, indoor gymnasium, and specialized learning centers for art, music, and technology. Emphasizes character development and school readiness with comprehensive assessment tracking.
Daycare Services:
Children of America Hazleton
Children of America
This state-licensed center offers COA's proprietary educational program focusing on literacy, mathematics, and social skills development. Features secure electronic entry, comprehensive safety protocols, and USDA-approved meal program. Staff includes certified early childhood educators with background checks and ongoing training. The curriculum incorporates technology integration, foreign language exposure, and character education. Facilities include age-separated playgrounds, dedicated nap rooms, and interactive learning centers with hands-on materials for cognitive development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Harleigh, PA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Harleigh, PA, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Harleigh, 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 licensing ensures facilities meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications (including background checks and training), health and safety procedures, and physical environment. Family daycare homes serving 4-6 children from different families must also be registered. To verify a provider's compliance, you can use the **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** tool online or contact the DHS Northeast Regional Office. It's highly recommended to always ask a provider 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 Harleigh, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Harleigh area and surrounding Luzerne County, the average cost for full-time infant daycare typically ranges from **$900 to $1,200 per month**. Prices can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum, and staff credentials. For financial assistance, Pennsylvania's primary program is **Child Care Works (CCW)**, a subsidized program for eligible families based on income and need. You can apply through the Luzerne County Assistance Office. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's also worth checking with your employer about Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), which use pre-tax dollars for childcare expenses.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Harleigh, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Yes, waitlists are very common for daycare centers in Harleigh, especially for infant and toddler rooms which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. High-quality centers often have waitlists that can be **6 to 12 months long**. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists **as early as your second trimester of pregnancy**, if possible. When touring facilities, always ask about their current waitlist length, the deposit policy to hold a spot, and how often they update families on their status. Exploring options in nearby towns like Hazleton or Drums may also provide more availability.
What types of childcare options are most available in Harleigh—centers, in-home daycares, or preschools?
Harleigh, being a smaller borough, has a mix of options, but **licensed family/group home daycares** are a prevalent and popular choice due to the home-like setting and potentially smaller group sizes. There are also several well-regarded childcare centers and preschools within a short driving distance in the greater Hazleton area. For school-age children, the Hazleton Area School District may offer before/after-school programs. Given the local landscape, parents often need to consider providers in neighboring communities to find the right fit. Networking through local Facebook parent groups for Luzerne County can be invaluable for discovering lesser-known in-home providers.
How do daycare schedules in Harleigh typically align with the local school district calendar, especially for school closures and snow days?
Most daycare centers in the Harleigh area follow a calendar similar to the **Hazleton Area School District**, which is the local public school district. They typically observe major holidays, have planned professional development days, and may close for severe weather (snow days). However, a key advantage of many daycare centers is that they often **remain open on most school closure days** (like teacher in-service days), which is a crucial service for working parents. Always confirm a provider's annual calendar, their policy for emergency closures, and whether they offer backup care or charge tuition for days they are closed. In-home providers may have more flexible or variable schedules.
Childcare Insights for Harleigh
Finding the right childcare can feel like one of the most significant decisions you make as a parent, especially when you're searching for "day cares near me" right here in Harleigh, Pennsylvania. It’s about more than just a convenient location; it’s about finding a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where your child can thrive while you’re at work. For families in our tight-knit Harleigh community, this search often blends practical logistics with a deep desire for a place that feels like an extension of home.
Starting your search locally means considering the unique rhythm of life in our area. Many parents in Harleigh and the surrounding Hazle Township region balance work in nearby larger towns with a preference for community-centered care close to home. This makes factors like operating hours that align with shift work or commute times particularly important. A great first step is to simply take a drive through our neighborhoods. You might spot a well-regarded home-based daycare with a welcoming yard or a larger center you hadn't noticed before. Pay attention to the outside play areas and the general upkeep—these first impressions can tell you a lot about the care inside.
While word-of-mouth remains incredibly powerful in a community like ours, it's wise to complement those personal recommendations with structured research. The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services offers a searchable online database where you can verify a facility’s licensing status and review any inspection reports. This provides a crucial baseline for safety and compliance. When you begin to visit potential daycares in Harleigh, go beyond the scheduled tour. Ask to observe during a busy transition time, like morning drop-off or lunch. Notice how the caregivers interact with the children—are they engaged at eye level? Is the atmosphere calm and happy? Don’t hesitate to ask specific questions about their daily schedule, their policy on sick children, and how they handle those inevitable days when your little one is having a tough time.
Remember that the best fit is about alignment with your family’s values. Perhaps you’re looking for a program with a strong emphasis on outdoor play, taking advantage of Pennsylvania’s beautiful seasons, or one that incorporates early literacy in a meaningful way. Discuss your child’s specific personality and needs with the director. Finally, trust your instincts. You know your child best. The right daycare in Harleigh will not only put your logistical mind at ease with its safety and policies but will also give you a genuine feeling of trust and connection. Finding that perfect spot means your child gets a wonderful foundation for learning and socializing, and you gain the peace of mind to focus on your day, knowing they are in good hands just around the corner.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Harleigh: