The Best Daycare Centers in Mc Alisterville, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Mc Alisterville. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Mc Alisterville
KinderCare Learning Center at Lewistown
KinderCare Education
This nationally accredited center offers comprehensive early childhood education with research-based curriculum including phonics, math, and science programs. Features secure entry systems, certified teachers with ongoing professional development, and age-appropriate learning environments. Their approach focuses on whole-child development with structured learning activities, outdoor play areas, and nutritional meal programs. Serves families throughout Mifflin County including Mc Alisterville residents.
Daycare Services:
Step by Step Early Learning Center
Step by Step Child Development
A locally-owned center providing individualized care with low child-to-teacher ratios. Implements Creative Curriculum with hands-on learning stations and developmental assessments. Staff includes certified early childhood educators with CPR/first aid training. Features secure facilities with camera monitoring, nutritious meal program, and structured daily routines that balance educational activities with play. Strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
Daycare Services:
The Children's Center at Juniata
Community Children's Center
This community-focused center serves Juniata County and surrounding areas with developmentally appropriate programs. Features Pennsylvania Keystone STARS rated curriculum emphasizing literacy, social-emotional development, and school readiness. Certified teachers implement project-based learning in well-equipped classrooms. Includes secure outdoor playgrounds, USDA-approved meal program, and transportation services for school-age children. Known for strong community partnerships and inclusive environment.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Mc Alisterville, PA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Mc Alisterville, PA?
In Mc Alisterville and the surrounding Juniata County area, daycare costs are generally more affordable than in larger Pennsylvania cities. For full-time care (5 days a week), you can expect to pay approximately $150 to $225 per week for an infant or toddler at a licensed home-based daycare. Larger childcare centers in nearby towns like Mifflintown may range from $175 to $250 per week. It's important to note that Pennsylvania's Child Care Works subsidy program is available for eligible families to help offset these costs. Always ask providers if their weekly rate includes meals, snacks, and supplies, as this can vary.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Mc Alisterville is properly licensed and check their compliance history?
All childcare providers in Pennsylvania caring for 4 or more unrelated children must be licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS). You can verify a provider's license and review their inspection history, including any compliance reports or violations, through the DHS "Child Care Finder" website. Simply enter the provider's name or Mc Alisterville's zip code (17049). You can also contact the DHS Northeast Regional Office for direct assistance. It's highly recommended to visit any potential provider in person to see the environment and ask about their state-required clearances (like FBI fingerprints, child abuse history, and criminal background checks) for all staff.
Are there many options for childcare in Mc Alisterville, or will I likely need to look in neighboring towns?
Mc Alisterville is a small, rural community, so on-site daycare options within the immediate borough limits are limited, primarily consisting of licensed family home daycares. Many families in the area find quality care by looking in neighboring communities such as Mifflintown (the county seat), Thompsontown, or Richfield. Some providers may also offer transportation from local schools. Due to the limited number of slots, it's common to encounter waitlists, especially for infant care. Starting your search early—ideally 3-6 months before you need care—is crucial. Networking through local Facebook community groups for Juniata County can also help you discover smaller, reputable home-based providers.
What are the key questions to ask a potential in-home daycare provider in a rural area like Mc Alisterville?
When evaluating a family home daycare in a rural setting, ask specific questions tailored to the location and setting. Key questions include: "What is your emergency plan for severe weather or medical situations, and what is your proximity to the nearest hospital (like Geisinger-Lewistown)?" "Do you have a secure outdoor play area, and how do you handle safety with nearby roads or farmland?" "What is your policy on school delays or closures for the local Juniata County school districts, and do you provide care on those days?" Also, inquire about their daily structure, how they incorporate learning activities, their policy on sick children, and for references from other local families. Understanding their backup plan if the provider is ill is especially important where alternative care options are scarce.
Are there any preschool programs integrated into daycare settings in the Mc Alisterville area?
Yes, several licensed home daycares and centers in the region offer structured preschool or pre-kindergarten programs for children ages 3-5. These programs often follow a curriculum to prepare children for kindergarten in the Juniata County School District. Some providers may participate in Pennsylvania's Pre-K Counts or Head Start programs, which offer free or low-cost high-quality pre-K to eligible families. It's best to ask providers directly about their educational programming, teacher qualifications, and how they track developmental milestones. You may also find standalone preschool programs at local churches or community centers, but these are often part-time, so combining them with daycare may require a more complex arrangement.