The Best Daycare Centers in Lehigh Valley, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lehigh Valley. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lehigh Valley
Lehigh Valley Children's Centers
Lehigh Valley Children's Centers
LVCC is one of the most established and highly-regarded childcare providers in the Lehigh Valley, operating multiple locations throughout the region. They offer a comprehensive educational curriculum focused on early childhood development through play-based learning and structured activities. Their program emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM concepts. All teachers meet or exceed Pennsylvania state qualifications, with many holding advanced degrees in early childhood education. Facilities feature secure access systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and well-equipped classrooms. LVCC is known for its diverse programming, including music, art, and physical education, and maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios with low turnover rates.
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The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Allentown provides a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, and arts, delivered by degreed teachers in a safe, nurturing environment. The facility features state-of-the-art security systems, including keypad entry and comprehensive monitoring. Classrooms are designed to encourage exploration and discovery, with dedicated learning centers and age-appropriate materials. The school maintains excellent teacher-to-student ratios and offers enrichment programs including yoga, foreign language exposure, and music. Parents consistently praise the professional staff and comprehensive communication about child development.
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Pinebrook Family Answers Early Learning Center
Family Answers
Pinebrook Family Answers Early Learning Center offers high-quality childcare with a focus on developmental appropriateness and individualized learning. Their curriculum is research-based and aligns with Pennsylvania Early Learning Standards, emphasizing cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. The center features highly qualified teachers with specialized training in early childhood education and maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios. Safety is prioritized with secure facilities, comprehensive background checks, and rigorous health protocols. The program includes nutritious meals and snacks, outdoor play in age-appropriate playgrounds, and regular developmental assessments. Parents appreciate the strong communication, inclusive environment, and the center's commitment to preparing children for kindergarten success through structured yet flexible learning experiences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lehigh Valley, PA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in the Lehigh Valley, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In the Lehigh Valley (encompassing Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton), full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,600 per month, while toddler care often costs between $1,000 and $1,400 per month. Prices can vary based on the facility's location, accreditation (like NAEYC), and whether it's a center or a home-based program. For financial assistance, Pennsylvania's Child Care Works (CCW) subsidy program is the primary resource for eligible families based on income and need. Locally, you can apply through the Child Care Information Services (CCIS) of Lehigh Valley, administered by the Community Services for Children. Additionally, some employers in the region, such as Lehigh Valley Health Network and major manufacturers, may offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) or referral services.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in the Lehigh Valley, and what can parents do to secure a spot?
Waitlists for highly-regarded daycare centers in the Lehigh Valley can be significant, especially for infant rooms. It's common to encounter waitlists of 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer for centers affiliated with hospitals, universities, or with top Keystone STARS ratings. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Be proactive by contacting multiple centers in Bethlehem, Allentown, and surrounding suburbs. Many facilities allow you to join their waitlist for a small fee. It's also advisable to follow up every few months to express continued interest. Consider exploring high-quality registered family childcare homes, which may have shorter wait times and are also regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS).
What is the Keystone STARS rating system, and why is it important when choosing a daycare in Pennsylvania?
Keystone STARS is Pennsylvania's voluntary quality rating and improvement system for early learning programs. Programs are rated from STAR 1 (meeting state licensing requirements) to STAR 4 (exceeding standards with high-quality practices). In the Lehigh Valley, a higher STAR rating generally indicates better staff qualifications, lower child-to-teacher ratios, a stronger learning environment, and more family engagement. When touring facilities in Allentown or Bethlehem, always ask for their STAR rating. A STAR 3 or 4 center has demonstrated a commitment to quality that can positively impact your child's early development. You can verify ratings and find programs through the statewide "Find Child Care" tool on the PA DHS website.
Are there unique seasonal or part-time childcare options available in the Lehigh Valley for parents with irregular schedules?
Yes, the Lehigh Valley offers several flexible options beyond traditional full-time daycare. For seasonal or drop-in care, facilities like the YMCA of Allentown and the Greater Valley YMCA often offer parent's night out programs, school closure day camps, and flexible punch-card systems. Several local centers also offer part-time schedules (e.g., 2 or 3 days a week), though these spots are limited. For truly irregular schedules, consider using a licensed nanny share service or a network like Care.com, filtering for local providers open to flexible arrangements. Additionally, during the summer, many local parks and recreation departments (e.g., Bethlehem's) offer weekly summer camps for preschool and school-age children.
What are the state-mandated child-to-staff ratios and key safety regulations for daycare centers in Pennsylvania that I should verify?
Pennsylvania DHS sets strict ratios and group sizes. For infants (0-12 months), the ratio is 1 staff to 4 children, with a maximum group size of 8. For toddlers (1-2 years), it's 1:5 with a group of 10. For preschoolers (3-5 years), it's 1:10 with a group of 20. All staff must pass background checks (PA State Police, Child Abuse, and FBI fingerprinting) and have mandated reporter training. In the Lehigh Valley, you should also verify that the facility is licensed and has passed recent fire and health inspections (these are public record). Centers must have detailed emergency plans, including for severe weather common to the region. Don't hesitate to ask any Lehigh Valley center director to see their current license and inspection reports during your tour.
Nearby Cities
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