The Best Daycare Centers in Jermyn, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Jermyn. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Jermyn
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Moosic provides a premier early childhood education program serving families throughout the Scranton area, including Jermyn. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) focuses on play-based learning across seven learning domains. The school features state-certified teachers with degrees in early childhood education, secured entry systems, and daily digital updates for parents. Their comprehensive curriculum includes STEAM learning, foreign language exposure, and character development programs. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, modern classrooms with natural lighting, and dedicated art and music areas.
Daycare Services:
La Petite Academy of Clarks Summit
Learning Care Group
La Petite Academy in Clarks Summit offers comprehensive early education programs with a research-based curriculum that emphasizes school readiness. Their proprietary Digital Daily Connect app provides real-time updates and photos throughout the day. The center features low student-teacher ratios, CPR and First Aid certified staff, and a secure facility with keypad entry. Their Grow Fit® initiative promotes healthy nutrition and physical activity. The curriculum includes literacy development, mathematics, science exploration, and social-emotional learning. The center serves as a convenient option for families commuting between Jermyn and the Scranton area.
Daycare Services:
Building Blocks Child Care Center
Independent
Building Blocks Child Care Center is a locally-owned facility known for its nurturing environment and strong educational foundation. The center employs experienced early childhood educators who create individualized learning plans for each child. Their curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, social development, and kindergarten readiness skills. The facility includes secure classrooms, age-appropriate learning materials, and outdoor play areas. They maintain strict safety protocols including background-checked staff, comprehensive cleaning procedures, and emergency preparedness training. The center has built a strong reputation for personalized attention and consistent communication with families throughout Northeast Pennsylvania.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Jermyn, PA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Jermyn, PA?
In Jermyn and the surrounding Lackawanna County area, full-time daycare costs can vary based on the type of facility. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $225 and $325 per week for infant care. For home-based family childcare providers, which are common in smaller communities like Jermyn, rates are often slightly lower, ranging from $180 to $260 per week. These costs are generally more affordable than in larger Pennsylvania cities like Scranton or Philadelphia. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. Some providers may offer a discount for multiple children.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Jermyn is properly licensed and has a good compliance record?
All childcare providers in Pennsylvania must be licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). You can verify a provider's license and review their compliance history through the state's online **Child Care Finder** tool. Simply search by the provider's name or zip code (18433 for Jermyn). This public database shows the license status, capacity, and any recent inspection reports, including violations and how they were corrected. For an additional local perspective, you can contact the **Lackawanna County Early Childhood Education Division** for resources and recommendations.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Jermyn, and when should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of dedicated daycare centers in a small town like Jermyn, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care slots. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists **6 to 12 months** before you need care. Many local parents also explore licensed family childcare homes in residential neighborhoods, which may have shorter wait times or more flexible openings. Proactively contacting providers in nearby towns like Mayfield, Archbald, or Carbondale can expand your options. Joining local community Facebook groups (e.g., "Jermyn Community Page") is a great way to hear about openings from other parents.
What childcare assistance programs are available for low-income families in Jermyn?
Pennsylvania's Child Care Works (CCW) subsidy program is the primary resource for eligible families in Jermyn. This program helps cover a portion of childcare costs based on family size, income, and need. You can apply through the **Lackawanna County Assistance Office**. Additionally, local organizations like the **United Way of Lackawanna and Wayne Counties** can provide guidance and may offer supplemental assistance or referrals. For early learning programs, the federal Head Start and Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts programs are available in the county, though transportation to designated sites outside Jermyn may be a consideration.
What are the options for part-time or drop-in childcare in Jermyn for irregular schedules?
Finding traditional part-time or drop-in care in Jermyn can be challenging, as most licensed providers prioritize full-time enrollments. Your best options include: 1) Inquiring with local family childcare homes, as they sometimes offer more flexible arrangements. 2) Exploring registered "family, friend, and neighbor" care, which is legally recognized in PA for occasional care. 3) Using regional childcare networks like **Sittercity** or **Care.com** to find local babysitters for irregular hours. For occasional needs, some parents utilize drop-in centers in the larger Scranton area, about a 20-minute drive away, though this requires planning. Building a network with other local parents for shared babysitting is also a practical strategy in a close-knit community.
Childcare Insights for Jermyn
Finding trusted care for your baby is one of the most significant decisions you'll make as a parent. If you're searching for "infant child care near me" in Jermyn, Pennsylvania, you're likely looking for more than just a location on a map; you're seeking a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment close to home. The good news is that the Jermyn area and its surrounding communities in Lackawanna County offer several options, from dedicated childcare centers to licensed home-based providers, each with its own unique approach to those precious first years.
When beginning your search in Jermyn, consider the local landscape. Our community’s blend of small-town closeness and proximity to larger hubs like Scranton means you have a range of choices. Many parents find comfort in local, home-based daycares, which can offer a family-like setting with smaller group sizes. These providers are often deeply embedded in the Jermyn community, and getting personal recommendations from neighbors at Peck's Pond or other local spots can be invaluable. Simultaneously, established childcare centers in nearby towns like Mayfield or Archbald provide structured programs with multiple caregivers and dedicated infant rooms, which can be appealing for their consistency and resources.
A crucial first step is to verify licensing and inspection records. You can do this through Pennsylvania’s Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) website. This public resource allows you to review the compliance history of any licensed provider, giving you peace of mind about health, safety, and staff qualifications. Once you have a shortlist, schedule in-person visits. Pay close attention to how caregivers interact with the infants. Are they engaged, speaking gently, and responding promptly to cries? In an infant room, the caregiver-to-child ratio is paramount; Pennsylvania law requires a ratio of 1:4 for infants, but the best providers often aim for even more attentive staffing.
Think about the daily logistics specific to living in Jermyn. Consider your commute, especially if you travel along routes like the Casey Highway for work. A provider’s hours of operation and their policy on delayed pickups due to unexpected traffic or winter weather are practical details that matter greatly in our region. Don’t hesitate to ask about their philosophy on foundational aspects like feeding, napping, and early learning. How will they partner with you on your baby’s schedule? Many providers in our area understand the needs of working families and prioritize clear, daily communication through apps or logs.
Finally, trust your instincts during your visits. The right place will feel welcoming and secure, and the staff will be eager to answer all your questions. Finding infant care in Jermyn is about connecting with caregivers who will honor your family’s values and provide a loving extension of your home. By taking the time to research, visit, and ask the important questions, you can find a wonderful partner in your child’s early journey right here in our community.