The Best Daycare Centers in Haverford, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Haverford. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Haverford
The Goddard School of Haverford
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Haverford offers a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. Their curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development programs. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The center is known for its strong parent communication through daily reports and a dedicated mobile app.
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Chesterbrook Academy Preschool
Spring Education Group
Chesterbrook Academy provides a research-based curriculum that emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies through hands-on learning. Their proprietary Links to Learning curriculum ensures developmental milestones are met while preparing children for elementary school. The facility includes secure keypad entry, comprehensive safety protocols, and modern classrooms with interactive technology. Teachers maintain low student-teacher ratios and hold early childhood education certifications. The academy offers enrichment programs in music, Spanish, and physical education.
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The Nesting House
Independent
The Nesting House is an intimate, play-based learning center that focuses on child-led exploration and social-emotional development. Their emergent curriculum adapts to children's interests while incorporating literacy, mathematics, and scientific thinking. The facility features natural lighting, organic materials, and thoughtfully designed learning environments. With exceptionally low teacher-child ratios, the center provides personalized attention and strong relationship-building. Teachers are highly qualified with advanced degrees in early childhood education and specialized training in Reggio-inspired approaches. The center is celebrated for its warm, nurturing environment and strong community connections.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Haverford, PA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Haverford, PA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Haverford, PA, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $1,600 to $2,200 per month, while preschool for a 3-5 year old generally costs between $1,200 and $1,800 per month. These costs reflect the higher cost of living in Delaware County and the demand for quality programs in the area. For financial assistance, Pennsylvania's Child Care Works (CCW) subsidy program is the primary resource for eligible families. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships. It's also worth checking with the Delaware County Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) for the most current information on local aid and to see if any Haverford-based organizations or employers offer childcare stipends.
How long are waitlists for infant care at licensed daycare centers in Haverford, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlists for infant rooms (children under 1 year) at highly-rated licensed centers in Haverford can be notoriously long, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer. Due to strict Pennsylvania staff-to-child ratios for infants (1:4), spots are very limited. To improve your chances, start researching and contacting centers as early as possible during pregnancy. Get on multiple waitlists, even at centers in neighboring towns like Bryn Mawr or Ardmore. Be proactive—follow up with centers every few months to confirm your spot on the list and express continued interest. Some centers may require a non-refundable waitlist fee. Considering a licensed family daycare home in the area can also be a good alternative with potentially shorter wait times.
What should I look for to ensure a daycare or preschool in Haverford is properly licensed and meets Pennsylvania's quality standards?
All legal childcare providers in Pennsylvania must be licensed by the Department of Human Services (DHS). You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and check for any compliance history using the **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** tool online. Beyond the basic license, look for programs that participate in Pennsylvania's voluntary quality rating system, **Keystone STARS**. A center with a 3- or 4-STAR rating indicates a commitment to higher standards in learning environments, staff qualifications, and leadership. In Haverford, many sought-after programs are STAR 4 facilities. Also, ask about staff credentials, ongoing training, and their curriculum philosophy to ensure it aligns with your family's values.
Are there many options for part-time or flexible childcare schedules in Haverford, or is full-time enrollment typically required?
While many traditional daycare centers in Haverford prioritize full-time enrollment due to high demand, you can find part-time and flexible options. Several local preschools offer half-day programs (e.g., 9 AM-12 PM) for children ages 3-5, often 2, 3, or 5 days a week. For younger children, some centers may offer part-time slots, but they are less common and may come with a premium price. Your best bets for flexibility are often licensed family daycare homes or nanny shares coordinated with other Haverford families. Additionally, drop-in care or occasional babysitting services can be found through local networks and apps, but these are not substitutes for regular, licensed care.
What are some of the key differences between daycare centers and family daycare homes available in Haverford?
In Haverford, parents typically choose between licensed **Child Care Centers** and licensed **Family Child Care Homes**. Centers are larger facilities, often with multiple classrooms, structured curricula (like Montessori or play-based), and larger staff teams. They usually have set hours and may offer enrichment programs. Family homes are smaller, run out of a provider's residence, caring for a mixed-age group of up to 6 children (with an assistant). They often provide a more home-like, flexible environment and can be more accommodating to non-standard hours. Centers are more prevalent in Haverford's commercial areas, while family homes are dispersed throughout residential neighborhoods. Both are regulated by PA DHS, but their atmospheres, routines, and capacities differ significantly.