The Best Daycare Centers in Hershey, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Hershey. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Hershey
Hershey Early Childhood Center
Derry Township School District
Operated by the Derry Township School District, this center offers high-quality early childhood education with certified teachers and developmentally appropriate curriculum. The program focuses on school readiness through play-based learning, literacy development, and social-emotional skills. Features small class sizes, experienced early childhood educators, and comprehensive assessment tracking. The center maintains strong partnerships with families and integrates with the district's elementary programs for smooth transitions. Safety protocols include secure facilities and staff trained in early childhood best practices.
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The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
This nationally accredited Goddard School location offers a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with creative expression. Features state-certified teachers, low student-teacher ratios, and purpose-built classrooms with age-appropriate learning centers. The curriculum includes STEAM learning, language development, and character education. Safety features include secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and daily health screenings. The facility includes outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups and offers enrichment programs like yoga, music, and foreign language exposure.
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Primrose School of Hershey
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Hershey delivers the nationally recognized Balanced Learning® approach, blending purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The research-based curriculum focuses on character development, literacy, mathematics, and social skills through hands-on activities. Features include dedicated art and music rooms, STEM labs, and secure outdoor learning environments. Staff maintain early childhood education credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes partnership with parents through regular communication and family events. Safety protocols include electronic entry systems, comprehensive camera monitoring, and strict health and hygiene practices.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Hershey, PA
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Hershey, PA?
In Hershey and the surrounding Dauphin County area, the average cost for full-time, center-based infant care typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,600 per month. For toddlers, the cost is slightly lower, averaging between $1,000 and $1,400 per month. These rates are influenced by factors such as the center's accreditation (like NAEYC), staff-to-child ratios, and included amenities (e.g., meals, educational curriculum). In-home family daycare providers in Hershey often charge 10-20% less. It's important to note that Pennsylvania offers childcare subsidy programs through the Child Care Works program for eligible families, and some local employers, including those in the Hershey corporate network, may offer dependent care flexible spending accounts or other assistance.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Hershey, and when should I start looking?
Due to high demand and limited infant/toddler slots, waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Hershey can be significant. It is not uncommon for families to encounter waitlists of 6 to 12 months, especially for infant care. For popular centers affiliated with major local employers or with exceptional ratings, waitlists can extend beyond a year. We strongly recommend starting your search and getting on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during your second trimester of pregnancy. When contacting centers, ask specific questions about their list: Is there a fee to join? How often is it updated? Do they offer guaranteed enrollment for siblings of current students? Exploring options in neighboring communities like Hummelstown, Palmyra, or Harrisburg can also provide more availability.
What are the key Pennsylvania state licensing requirements I should verify when choosing a daycare in Hershey?
All childcare providers in Hershey must be licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS). Key requirements you should ask about and verify include: **Staff-to-Child Ratios** (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:5 for young toddlers), **Staff Qualifications** (directors must have a Bachelor's degree in a related field and experience, lead teachers need an Associate's degree or CDA), and **Maximum Group Sizes**. All staff must pass background checks (PA State Police, Child Abuse, and FBI fingerprinting) and complete mandatory training in health & safety, CPR, and first aid. You can view a provider's compliance history, including any violations, on the DHS website. Licensed centers also undergo unannounced annual inspections.
Are there any unique childcare resources or programs in Hershey that support working parents?
Yes, Hershey has several unique resources. The **Milton Hershey School**, while a private residential school, is a cornerstone of the community and its legacy supports various local family initiatives. More directly, **Penn State Health Children’s Hospital** and the **Penn State College of Medicine** community often have affiliated or recommended childcare programs that understand the irregular schedules of healthcare and academic professionals. The **Derry Township** community often shares resources through local parent groups on social media. Furthermore, the **Hershey Public Library** offers robust early literacy programs that can supplement childcare education. For backup or occasional care, services like Care.com have a strong local presence, and some nanny-share arrangements are organized through community networks.
What options exist for part-time, drop-in, or flexible childcare in Hershey for parents with non-traditional schedules?
Traditional full-time centers dominate, but flexible options do exist. Some local centers in Hershey and Hummelstown may offer part-time schedules (e.g., 2-3 days per week), though these slots are limited and often have higher daily rates. For true drop-in care, your best bets are **registered family daycare homes**, which may have more flexibility, or dedicated drop-in centers in nearby Harrisburg. The **YMCA of the Harrisburg Area** (with branches in nearby communities) sometimes offers "Parents' Night Out" programs and may have flexible preschool options. For shift workers, especially at the medical center, it's crucial to inquire directly with providers about early opening (before 6:30 AM) or late closing (after 6:00 PM) policies, as these are not standard. Building a network with a trusted local babysitter or nanny is often the most reliable solution for irregular hours.