The Best Daycare Centers in Huntingdon Valley, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Huntingdon Valley. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Huntingdon Valley
The Goddard School of Abington
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Abington offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Their state-of-the-art facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play spaces. Certified teachers implement play-based learning with STEAM curriculum elements, character development programs, and individualized learning plans. The center maintains low student-teacher ratios and employs degreed early childhood educators. Parents appreciate the comprehensive communication through daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences.
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Primrose School of Blue Bell
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Blue Bell provides Balanced Learning® approach combining purposeful play with nurturing guidance from early childhood experts. Their research-based curriculum includes literacy development, math readiness, and character development programs. The facility features secure environments with dedicated infant rooms, interactive learning centers, and age-appropriate playgrounds. All teachers receive ongoing professional development and maintain CPR/first aid certification. The school emphasizes partnership with families through regular communication, parent resources, and family events. Their exclusive Harmony & Heart® program incorporates music and movement to support development.
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Children's Village at Huntingdon Valley
Independent
Children's Village at Huntingdon Valley is a locally-owned childcare center serving the community for nearly two decades. Their comprehensive curriculum focuses on whole-child development through structured learning activities and creative play. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, age-separated classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Experienced teachers create individualized learning experiences while maintaining small class sizes. The program includes enrichment activities like music, art, and physical education. Parents value the center's family-like atmosphere, consistent staff retention, and strong communication through daily updates and parent portals.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Huntingdon Valley, PA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Huntingdon Valley, PA?
In Huntingdon Valley and the surrounding Montgomery County area, daycare costs are generally above the Pennsylvania state average. For full-time infant care (ages 0-2), you can expect to pay between $1,400 and $1,900 per month at a licensed center. For toddlers (ages 2-3), costs typically range from $1,200 to $1,600 per month. Home-based daycare (family childcare) is often slightly less expensive, ranging from $900 to $1,400 monthly. These rates reflect the area's higher cost of living and the demand for quality care. It's important to ask what is included in tuition, such as meals, formula, diapers, and educational programming, as these can affect the overall value.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare center or home provider in Huntingdon Valley?
All childcare providers in Pennsylvania must be licensed or certified by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). You can verify a provider's license status and review their compliance history, including any violations or inspections, through the publicly accessible **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** website. Simply search by the provider's name or zip code (19006 for Huntingdon Valley). This tool shows the license type (Child Care Center, Group Child Care Home, or Family Child Care Home), capacity, and detailed inspection reports. We highly recommend reviewing the last 2-3 years of reports to understand any recurring issues.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Huntingdon Valley, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common for many of the highly-regarded daycare centers and preschools in Huntingdon Valley, especially for infant rooms which have strict staff-to-child ratios. It is strongly advised to begin your search and tours **at least 6 to 12 months** before your desired start date. For a September start (aligning with the traditional school year), initiating your search in the preceding fall or winter is ideal. When touring facilities, always ask about their specific waitlist process: Is there a fee? How often should you check in? Is the list by age group? Some local centers affiliated with community organizations or religious institutions may give priority to members, so inquire about that as well.
What are some of the key local resources or referral services for finding childcare in Huntingdon Valley?
A primary local resource is **Child Care Information Services of Montgomery County (CCIS)**. While they primarily administer subsidized childcare funding for eligible families, their website and staff can provide referrals to licensed providers in the 19006 area. Additionally, the **Huntingdon Valley Library** often has community bulletin boards with information on local home daycares and preschools. Many parents in the area also rely on hyper-local Facebook groups (e.g., "Huntingdon Valley Community" or parent groups for the Lower Moreland Township School District) for personal recommendations and to learn about smaller, licensed home-based providers that may not advertise widely.
What are the options for part-time or flexible childcare schedules in Huntingdon Valley, as opposed to traditional 5-day-a-week care?
While full-time schedules are most common, several options exist for part-time care. Some daycare centers in the area offer 2, 3, or 4-day-a-week programs, often for preschool-age children (3-5 years), though these spots are limited and may have specific schedule requirements (e.g., Monday/Wednesday/Friday only). Another growing option is the use of licensed **family childcare homes**, which can sometimes offer more flexibility for shift workers or parents with irregular schedules. Additionally, several local churches and community centers offer morning preschool programs (typically 9 AM-12 PM) for children aged 2.5 and up, which can be a cost-effective option when combined with a part-time nanny or babysitter for afternoon coverage. Always confirm that part-time rates are proportional and not nearly the cost of full-time care.
Childcare Insights for Huntingdon Valley
Finding the right childcare is one of the most significant decisions a family makes, blending practical logistics with the deep desire for a nurturing, safe, and stimulating environment for your child. For parents in Huntingdon Valley, Pennsylvania, the search for "top rated daycares near me" comes with the advantage of a community-oriented area, but it still requires careful navigation. The process is about more than just proximity; it's about finding a place that feels like an extension of your own values and care.
Begin your search by defining what "top rated" means for your family. For some, it emphasizes a robust educational curriculum, while for others, it might prioritize flexible hours, outdoor play space, or a warm, home-like atmosphere. In Huntingdon Valley and the surrounding Lower Moreland Township, you'll find a mix of established childcare centers, faith-based programs, and licensed family daycare homes. A strong starting point is to utilize the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services' online database to verify licensing and review any inspection reports, ensuring a baseline of safety and compliance. Beyond state resources, local parent groups on social media platforms are invaluable. Asking for personal experiences and recommendations from neighbors in Huntingdon Valley can provide honest insights that online reviews alone cannot.
When considering locations, remember that "near me" in our area often includes convenient access to routes like County Line Road, Huntingdon Pike, and the Turnpike, making daycares in nearby communities like Bryn Athyn, Willow Grove, and Southampton potentially feasible options. Schedule visits to your shortlisted centers, and pay close attention to the details. Observe how the staff interacts with the children—are they engaged at eye level? Is the environment clean, organized, and filled with children's creative work? Ask about caregiver turnover, as consistency is crucial for young children's attachment and security. Inquire about their policies on communication, sick children, and their daily balance of structured activities and free play.
Given Huntingdon Valley's distinct seasons, consider how a program utilizes its outdoor space. Does the daycare have a secure, shaded area for summer play and accommodate outdoor time even in cooler months? Also, explore the educational philosophy, whether it's play-based, follows a specific model like Montessori, or incorporates early learning standards. Finally, trust your instincts during a visit. The right daycare will feel welcoming, and the director should be transparent and happy to answer all your questions. The peace of mind that comes from knowing your child is in capable, caring hands while you're at work is priceless. By taking these thoughtful, proactive steps, you can move beyond the general search to find a truly top-rated daycare that fits your child's unique needs and becomes a trusted partner in your parenting journey right here in our community.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Huntingdon Valley: