The Best Daycare Centers in Laurelton, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Laurelton. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Laurelton
The Goddard School of Lewisburg
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Lewisburg offers a premier early childhood education program with a play-based learning approach grounded in F.L.EX. (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum. Features include state-certified teachers with degrees in early childhood education, low student-to-teacher ratios, and secure facilities with keypad entry and surveillance systems. The center emphasizes STEAM learning, language development, and social-emotional skills through structured play and hands-on activities. Parents praise the consistent communication via daily reports and a dedicated app, along with nutritious meal programs and spacious indoor/outdoor play areas designed for age-appropriate development.
Daycare Services:
Lewisburg Area Children's Center
Lewisburg Area Children's Center Inc.
Lewisburg Area Children's Center provides a nurturing environment with a balanced curriculum blending Montessori-inspired activities and Creative Curriculum frameworks. Staff includes lead teachers with CPR/First Aid certification and ongoing professional development in child development best practices. The center focuses on individualized learning plans, outdoor exploration in fenced playgrounds, and community involvement. Safety protocols include strict sanitization procedures, secured access, and regular safety drills. Highly rated for its family-friendly atmosphere, the center offers flexible scheduling and emphasizes parent partnerships through monthly newsletters and family events.
Daycare Services:
Bucknell University Early Childhood Education Center
Bucknell University
Operated by Bucknell University, this center combines research-based practices with a Reggio Emilia-inspired approach, fostering curiosity and creativity through project-based learning. Features highly qualified educators, many with advanced degrees, and maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios. The facility includes modern classrooms, natural outdoor play spaces, and a focus on inclusive, diverse environments. Safety is prioritized with 24/7 monitoring, health screenings, and allergy-aware policies. Parents value the strong academic preparation, transparent communication via digital portfolios, and integration of university resources like music and art enrichment programs.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Laurelton, PA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Laurelton, PA, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Laurelton, as part of Pennsylvania, all childcare centers and group daycare homes must be licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). Family daycare homes caring for 4-6 unrelated children also require a license. Key requirements include background checks for all staff, specific staff-to-child ratios based on age, health and safety training, and regular facility inspections. To verify a provider's compliance and view their inspection reports, you can use the **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** tool online or contact the DHS's regional office serving Union County. It's highly recommended to check this public record for any violations or compliance notes before enrolling your child.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Laurelton, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Laurelton area and surrounding Union County, the average cost for full-time infant care typically ranges from **$900 to $1,200 per month**. Toddler care is slightly less, often between **$800 and $1,100 per month**. These rates can vary based on the type of center, its amenities, and the specific program offered. For financial assistance, Pennsylvania's **Child Care Works (CCW)** subsidy program is the primary resource for eligible families based on income and need. You can apply through the Union County Assistance Office. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in and around Laurelton, and when should I start looking?
Due to limited high-quality childcare options in more rural areas like Laurelton, waitlists for infant and toddler spots at reputable centers can be significant. It is common to encounter waitlists of **6 to 12 months**, especially for infant care. We strongly advise parents to begin researching and touring facilities **as early as possible during pregnancy**. Getting on multiple waitlists is a common strategy. For more immediate needs, exploring licensed family daycare homes in the community may offer shorter wait times. Be sure to ask about the waitlist policy, including any deposit requirements and how often you should check in to maintain your spot.
Are there any unique childcare options in Laurelton that cater to agricultural or rural family schedules?
Yes, given Laurelton's rural setting in central Pennsylvania, some childcare providers understand the demands of agricultural and non-traditional work schedules. While standard center hours (e.g., 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM) are most common, some licensed family daycare homes may offer more flexible or extended hours to accommodate early mornings or late evenings during busy seasons. It's less common to find 24-hour care locally. Your best bet is to network within the community, check local bulletin boards, and inquire directly with providers about flexibility. Some may also incorporate outdoor, nature-based play into their curriculum, which is a benefit of the rural environment.
What resources are available in Laurelton to help me evaluate and choose between a daycare center and a home-based provider?
A great first step is to use the **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** website to search for both licensed centers and family homes in the 17835 zip code and surrounding areas. For local, personalized guidance, you can contact the **Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 10**, which serves Union County. They offer free referral services and can provide checklists for what to look for during a visit. Key local considerations include: the provider's plan for inclement weather and rural road conditions, their proximity to your home or commute, and their policies on outdoor play in a rural setting. Always schedule an in-person tour, ask for references from current parents, and trust your instincts about the environment.
Childcare Insights for Laurelton
For many families in Laurelton, Pennsylvania, the search for "church daycare near me" is about more than just finding a convenient location. It often represents a desire for a nurturing environment that aligns with your family’s values, where care feels like an extension of a supportive community. In our close-knit area, several local churches offer daycare and preschool programs that can be wonderful options, blending early education with a familiar, values-based setting.
When beginning your search here in Laurelton, it's helpful to understand what makes a church-based program unique. These centers often operate with a dual mission: to provide excellent early childhood care and to serve the community. This can translate into a warm, family-oriented atmosphere where staff are deeply invested in each child's well-being. Many incorporate gentle, age-appropriate lessons about kindness, sharing, and gratitude, which can be a comforting foundation for young children. The first practical step is to create a shortlist. You might drive by local churches like Laurelton Baptist Church or check with congregations in nearby Mifflinburg or Lewisburg, as they may offer programs that welcome families from our area. A simple online search for "Laurelton PA daycare" or "Union County church preschool" can yield initial results, but personal referrals from neighbors or friends at the Laurelton Community Picnic can be invaluable.
Once you have a few names, the most important phase begins: the visit. Call to schedule a tour, and go prepared with questions that matter to you. Ask about their state licensing—all reputable centers in Pennsylvania must be licensed by the Department of Human Services. Inquire about the daily schedule, teacher qualifications, and the balance between play, learning, and rest. Notice the feeling of the space. Is it cheerful and safe? Do the children seem engaged and happy? Given Laurelton's rural setting, ask about their outdoor play area and how they incorporate the natural beauty of our Pennsylvania countryside into the day. Don't hesitate to ask about the specific role faith plays in the curriculum; some programs may include brief prayers or simple Bible stories, while others focus solely on the moral and community aspects.
Finally, consider the logistical fit for your Laurelton lifestyle. What are the hours of operation, and do they accommodate the schedule of commuting parents? Understand the cost and if they offer any flexible payment options. A huge benefit of a local church daycare can be the built-in community. It can become a place where you connect with other parents right here in town, sharing carpools for future school years or meeting up at the Laurelton Park. Finding the right childcare is a significant decision. By taking the time to visit, ask thoughtful questions, and trust your instincts about the environment, you can find a place in our community where your child will not only be cared for but will truly thrive.