The Best Daycare Centers in Lewistown, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lewistown. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lewistown
Mifflin County Academy of Science and Technology Child Development Center
Mifflin County Academy of Science and Technology
This center operates as part of the Mifflin County Career and Technology Center, providing high-quality early childhood education with a STEM-focused curriculum. The facility features experienced early childhood educators and career-technical students learning under professional supervision. They offer developmentally appropriate practices, modern learning environments, and comprehensive age-appropriate activities. The center is known for its strong educational foundation, safe learning environment, and integration with the technical school's educational programs, providing children with diverse learning experiences and exposure to various career pathways.
Daycare Services:
KinderCare Learning Center at State College
KinderCare Education
As part of the nationally recognized KinderCare network, this center serves families throughout Central Pennsylvania including Lewistown area. They implement research-based curriculum focusing on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials, secure facilities with keypad entry, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their program includes nutritious meals, indoor and outdoor play spaces, and age-appropriate learning centers. Parents appreciate the consistent communication, developmental progress tracking, and flexible scheduling options for working families.
Daycare Services:
The Learning Experience - Harrisburg
The Learning Experience
This nationally accredited center serves the broader Central Pennsylvania region including Lewistown families. They feature the proprietary L.E.A.P. (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates technology, philanthropy, and foreign language exposure. The facility includes state-of-the-art security systems, modern classrooms, and dedicated play areas. Their highly trained staff maintains low child-to-teacher ratios and focuses on individualized learning paths. The center is particularly noted for its strong emphasis on character development, phonics-based reading programs, and comprehensive enrichment activities including yoga, music, and movement classes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lewistown, PA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Lewistown, PA?
In Lewistown and the surrounding Mifflin County area, daycare costs are generally more affordable than in larger Pennsylvania cities but can vary based on the type of care. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay approximately $150 to $225 per week for full-time infant care. In-home family daycare providers often range from $120 to $180 per week. Costs for toddlers are typically slightly lower. It's important to note that these are estimates, and prices can vary based on specific programs, included meals, and educational curricula. Many providers in the area participate in the Child Care Works subsidy program for eligible families, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
How can I verify that a daycare provider in Lewistown is properly licensed and has a good record?
All childcare providers in Pennsylvania, including those in Lewistown, 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 status and review their most recent inspection reports online through the **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** website. This public database shows any regulatory compliance issues, complaints, or violations. Additionally, you can contact the **Central Regional Office of OCDEL**, which oversees Mifflin County, for further information. We also strongly recommend visiting any potential daycare in person, asking for references from current parents, and checking with local community groups on social media for firsthand experiences.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Lewistown, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Waitlist situations in Lewistown can vary. The more established centers and highly recommended in-home providers often have limited infant spots and may maintain waitlists of several months. For toddler and preschool-age programs, availability is usually better. It is highly advisable to begin your search **at least 6 to 9 months before you need care**, especially for an infant. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current waitlist policy, if there's a fee to be placed on it, and how often they update families on their position. Exploring multiple options, including both centers and registered family homes in Lewistown and nearby towns like Burnham or Reedsville, can increase your chances of finding timely placement.
What types of childcare programs are most commonly available in Lewistown beyond standard daycare centers?
Lewistown offers a variety of childcare options to suit different family needs. Beyond traditional daycare centers, you will find: * **Registered Family Child Care Homes:** Often smaller, home-based settings offering a family-like environment. * **Pre-K Counts Programs:** State-funded free pre-kindergarten for eligible 3- and 4-year-olds, offered at locations like the Mifflin County Academy or through the Mifflin County School District. * **Head Start Programs:** Federally funded comprehensive early childhood programs for income-eligible families. * **Part-Day Nursery Schools or Preschools:** Often affiliated with churches or community organizations, providing educational programming for a few hours a day. * **School-Age Child Care (SACC):** Before- and after-school care programs, frequently operated at or near local elementary schools.
Are there local resources in Mifflin County to help parents find and choose quality childcare?
Yes, a key local resource is the **Mifflin-Juniata Child Care Information Service (CCIS)**, which is part of the Central Pennsylvania Child Care Corporation. This agency is the designated referral and subsidy service for Mifflin County. They maintain a database of licensed and certified providers, offer personalized referrals based on your needs, and administer the Child Care Works subsidy program. You can contact them directly for assistance. Furthermore, the **Mifflin County Library** and community bulletin boards, as well as local Facebook groups like "Lewistown, PA Community," can be useful for gathering parent recommendations and learning about new or upcoming childcare opportunities in the area.