The Best Daycare Centers in Harveys Lake, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Harveys Lake. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Harveys Lake
KinderCare Learning Center at Dallas
KinderCare Education
This NAEYC-accredited center offers comprehensive early childhood education with research-based curriculum including Phonics Adventures, Music and Movement, and STEM learning. Features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education degrees, secure keypad entry systems, and regular parent communication through the KinderCare app. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, dedicated learning centers, and nutritious meal programs. Serves families throughout the Back Mountain area including Harveys Lake with transportation options available.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Dallas
Goddard Systems, Inc.
This FLEX Learning Program facility emphasizes play-based learning with STEAM curriculum and literacy focus. Features state-certified teachers, low student-teacher ratios, and secure facility with surveillance systems. Offers enrichment programs including yoga, music, and foreign language exposure. The modern facility includes SMART Boards, outdoor learning environments, and dedicated art studios. Parents receive daily activity reports and photos through the proprietary mobile app, serving the Back Mountain community including Harveys Lake residents.
Daycare Services:
Children of America - Wilkes-Barre
Children of America
This nationally accredited center provides comprehensive early education with COA's proprietary curriculum focusing on school readiness and social-emotional development. Features degreed early childhood educators, secure electronic entry, and live streaming for parents. The facility includes multiple age-appropriate playgrounds, computer labs, and dedicated music and movement rooms. Offers flexible scheduling and serves the greater Wilkes-Barre area including Harveys Lake with transportation services available for school-age children.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Harveys Lake, PA
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available for families in Harveys Lake, PA?
In Harveys Lake and the surrounding Luzerne County area, parents typically have three main licensed options. First, there are licensed Child Care Centers, which are larger facilities, though these are more commonly found in nearby towns like Wilkes-Barre or Dallas. Second, and more prevalent in the immediate Harveys Lake community, are Family Child Care Homes. These are licensed providers who care for children in their own residence, often offering a smaller, home-like setting. Third, there are Group Child Care Homes, which care for 7-12 children. Due to the residential and lakeside nature of Harveys Lake, Family Child Care Homes are a very common choice. You can verify a provider's license and view inspection reports through Pennsylvania's Department of Human Services (DHS) Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) website.
How can I find and vet licensed daycare providers specifically in the Harveys Lake area?
The primary tool is Pennsylvania's COMPASS website or the direct "Find Child Care" tool on the DHS/OCDEL website. You can search by zip code (18618) and filter for Harveys Lake. This will show you all licensed providers, their type (center or home), capacity, and any Keystone STARS quality rating (Pennsylvania's quality initiative). It's crucial to then call and schedule visits. Given the tight-knit community, also ask for local recommendations in community Facebook groups like "Harveys Lake, PA Community Board." When vetting, always ask for their DHS certificate of compliance, check for any recent violations online, and inquire about their emergency plans, especially regarding lake safety and winter weather road closures that can affect the area.
What is the average cost of full-time childcare in Harveys Lake, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
Costs in Harveys Lake are generally in line with Luzerne County averages but can be slightly lower than in Scranton or Wilkes-Barre. For a Family Child Care Home, you might expect to pay between $180-$220 per week for full-time infant/toddler care, and slightly less for preschool-age children. Child Care Centers in nearby areas often range from $220-$280 per week. Financial assistance is primarily available through the state's Child Care Works (CCW) subsidized program, administered by the Luzerne County Assistance Office. Eligibility is based on income, work, or school attendance. Some local providers may also offer sibling discounts. It's important to note that availability for CCW slots can be limited, so apply early if you think you qualify.
Are waitlists common for daycare in Harveys Lake, and when should I start my search?
Yes, waitlists are very common, particularly for infant spots and for the most highly-rated Keystone STARS providers. The limited number of providers in the immediate lake area means spots fill quickly. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search at least 6-9 months before their needed start date, especially for infant care. For a September start (aligning with the school year), you should begin contacting providers the prior winter. When you tour a facility, always ask specifically about their waitlist process: Is there a fee? How often should you check in? Is the list for a specific age group? Being proactive and putting your name on multiple lists is a standard strategy for Harveys Lake families.
What are some location-specific considerations for daycare in a lakeside community like Harveys Lake?
Harveys Lake's unique environment brings specific considerations. First, inquire about a provider's outdoor play policy and safety protocols. Do they have a secure, fenced outdoor area? What are their rules regarding proximity to the lake? Second, consider transportation and accessibility, especially during winter. Some roads around the lake can be challenging in snow; ask about the provider's delayed opening or closure policy. Third, many programs may incorporate nature-based learning. Ask if they take walks, visit the community park, or have activities related to the local environment. Finally, check if the provider has specific training or plans for water safety, even if they are not directly on the waterfront, given the community's focus on the lake.
Childcare Insights for Harveys Lake
As the school year winds down, many parents in our community begin the important search for quality summer care. Finding reliable and engaging "summer daycare near me" in Harveys Lake, Pennsylvania, is about more than just supervision; it's about finding a program where your child can thrive, make friends, and enjoy the unique opportunities our beautiful area provides. The good news is that with some planning and local insight, you can secure a spot that feels like a perfect fit for your family's summer.
Start your search early, as popular programs in the Harveys Lake area can fill up quickly, often by early spring. Beyond checking with local dedicated daycare centers, consider exploring options at community hubs. The Lake-Noxen Elementary School or other area organizations sometimes host summer camps or can provide referrals. Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations from other parents at the Harveys Lake Beach or community events; personal experiences are invaluable. When evaluating a program, inquire about their daily structure. The best summer care balances free play with organized activities. Given our location, look for programs that incorporate the natural environment—whether it's supervised water play, nature walks, or outdoor arts and crafts. Safety around water is a paramount concern for any parent in our lakeside community, so ask about staff certifications in first aid and CPR, as well as their specific protocols for any aquatic activities.
A key consideration for Harveys Lake families is transportation and flexibility. Some programs may offer field trips to local points of interest, like the Frances Slocum State Park or a library visit, which can be a wonderful enrichment. Clarify pickup and drop-off times to ensure they align with your work schedule, and ask about their policy for the occasional early pick-up for a family afternoon on the lake. The vibe of the program is also crucial. Schedule a visit, if possible, to observe the staff interacting with the children. You want to see engaged, patient caregivers who are facilitating fun and fostering a positive group dynamic. A low staff-to-child ratio is always a strong indicator of a quality program where your child will receive attentive care.
Finally, think about what will make the summer special for your child. A great local summer daycare will help combat the "I'm bored" refrain with themed weeks, creative projects, and physical activity. It should feel like an extension of the care you provide—safe, nurturing, and full of opportunities for joy. By focusing on programs that understand the rhythm of a Harveys Lake summer, you can find a solution that offers you peace of mind and gives your child a season of happy memories right here in our own community. Trust your instincts, ask detailed questions, and you'll be well on your way to a smooth and sunny season for everyone.