The Best Daycare Centers in Luzerne, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Luzerne. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Luzerne
The Learning Center at Washington Street
The Learning Center
The Learning Center at Washington Street is a highly-regarded early childhood education facility serving the Luzerne area with comprehensive developmental programs. They employ a play-based learning curriculum combined with structured academic preparation, focusing on social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM concepts. All lead teachers hold early childhood education certifications, and the center maintains low student-teacher ratios. The facility features secure entry systems, modern classrooms with age-appropriate learning centers, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. They emphasize parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences, with particular strength in preparing children for kindergarten transition.
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KinderCare Learning Center at Wilkes-Barre
KinderCare Education
This KinderCare location provides nationally-recognized early childhood education curriculum with research-based approaches to learning. Their program includes phonics-based literacy instruction, hands-on mathematics, and science exploration activities. The center features secure keypad entry, comprehensive safety protocols, and nutritionally balanced meals prepared on-site. Teachers receive ongoing professional development in early childhood education best practices. The facility includes dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, age-appropriate playgrounds with safety surfaces, and technology-enhanced learning spaces for school-age children. They offer flexible scheduling options and maintain strong communication with families through their parent portal system.
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The Goddard School of Kingston
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Kingston offers 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 integration, with dedicated learning centers in each classroom. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and participate in continuous professional development. The state-of-the-art facility includes secure entry systems, indoor gymnasium for active play, multiple playgrounds with natural elements, and technology-integrated classrooms. They emphasize character development and social skills while maintaining rigorous health and safety standards, including comprehensive background checks for all staff.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Luzerne, PA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Luzerne, PA?
In Luzerne and the surrounding Luzerne County area, full-time daycare costs can vary significantly based on the type of provider. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $800 to $1,200 per month for infant care. Home-based family childcare is often more affordable, typically ranging from $600 to $900 per month. Costs are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, included amenities (meals, curriculum), and the specific neighborhood. It's important to note that Pennsylvania offers childcare subsidy programs through the Child Care Works program for eligible families, which can greatly reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Always ask providers for a detailed breakdown of fees, including any registration or supply costs.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Luzerne is properly licensed and check their compliance history?
All childcare providers in Pennsylvania must be licensed by the Department of Human Services (DHS). To verify a provider's status and history, you should use the state's official "Child Care Finder" tool available on the DHS website. This resource allows you to search for providers in Luzerne by name or zip code (e.g., 18709) and view their license status, inspection dates, and any compliance reports. You can also contact the Northeast Regional Office of DHS, which oversees Luzerne County, for additional information. It's highly recommended to review the last 2-3 inspection reports, which note any regulatory violations ("non-compliances") and confirm they have been corrected.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Luzerne, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Yes, waitlists are common for infant and toddler rooms at many highly-regarded daycare centers in Luzerne and the broader Wilkes-Barre area. Due to high demand and limited infant slots (strict ratios are enforced by PA law), parents are advised to begin their search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or 6-12 months before their needed start date. Some centers affiliated with local employers or institutions may have even longer lists. Don't hesitate to get on multiple lists, but be aware that many require a non-refundable deposit to hold a spot. Exploring licensed family childcare homes can also provide more immediate availability.
What local resources or referral services are available to help me find and choose childcare in Luzerne County?
The primary local resource is the Luzerne County Child Development Program, which administers the federal Child Care Works subsidy and offers a free referral service. They maintain a database of all licensed and certified providers in the county. You can contact them directly for a personalized list of options that fit your location, schedule, and child's age. Additionally, the United Way of Wyoming Valley offers the 2-1-1 helpline, which can connect you to childcare resources and support services. For parents working or attending school, it's also worth checking if your employer or Luzerne County Community College offers any childcare partnerships or assistance programs.
What are some unique considerations for year-round childcare versus summer-only programs in Luzerne?
Luzerne offers distinct options. For year-round care, you'll primarily choose between licensed centers and family homes, which operate on a consistent schedule. For summer-only care, options expand to include summer camps run by local organizations like the Greater Wyoming Valley Area YMCA, the Luzerne Recreation Department, or school-based programs. A key consideration is that many year-round centers do not hold spots for children who leave for the summer, so transitioning back in the fall may be difficult. If you need summer care, inquire early as these popular programs fill quickly. Also, note that some year-round providers may have different rates or weekly schedules during the summer months to accommodate field trips or special activities.
Childcare Insights for Luzerne
Finding quality and affordable childcare is one of the most significant tasks for any parent, and if you're searching for "daycare prices near me" in Luzerne, Pennsylvania, you're likely navigating a mix of hope and budget anxiety. You're not alone. Understanding the childcare landscape in our specific area is the first step toward making a confident decision for your family. In Luzerne and the surrounding Greater Wilkes-Barre region, daycare costs can vary widely based on several key factors, and having a local perspective can help you know what to expect and how to plan.
Generally, in Luzerne, PA, you can expect to encounter a range of daycare prices. For a standard, licensed daycare center, full-time weekly rates for an infant often fall between $225 and $300. For toddlers and preschoolers, the weekly cost typically decreases slightly, ranging from $200 to $275. These figures are a general estimate, and it's crucial to remember that prices are influenced by the specific location, the age of your child, the hours of care needed, and the amenities offered. In-home daycare providers, which are often licensed or registered with the state, can sometimes offer a more budget-friendly alternative, with weekly rates potentially starting closer to $150-$200 for full-time care. These settings can provide a smaller, home-like environment, which many families in our community value.
When researching options specifically in Luzerne, consider the practical logistics that affect both cost and convenience. Many local centers have waiting lists, especially for infant care, so starting your search early is highly recommended. Be sure to ask what is included in the quoted weekly rate. Some facilities in the area include meals, snacks, and curriculum materials, while others may charge additional fees for these essentials or for early drop-off or late pick-up. It's also wise to inquire about their schedule for holidays and inclement weather, as this can impact your own work schedule. Visiting a few places in person, whether in Luzerne itself or in nearby Kingston, Wilkes-Barre, or Plymouth, will give you a true feel for the environment and the caregivers.
Fortunately, Pennsylvania offers resources to help manage these costs. The state's Child Care Works (CCW) subsidy program provides financial assistance to eligible families. Your eligibility is based on income, family size, and your reason for needing care, such as employment or education. Contacting the Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) for Region 11, which serves Luzerne County, is an excellent step. They can not only guide you through the subsidy application process but also provide a personalized referral list of licensed providers in Luzerne that match your family's needs. Remember, the cheapest option isn't always the best, and the most expensive isn't necessarily a guarantee of quality. Look for a place where you feel a genuine connection, where the staff is engaged, and where your child will be safe, nurtured, and stimulated. Finding the right balance between cost and quality is the ultimate goal for every parent in our community.