The Best Daycare Centers in Media, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Media. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Media
The Goddard School of Media
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Media offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. The center features state-certified teachers with degrees in early childhood education, low student-to-teacher ratios, and secure entry systems. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social-emotional development in purpose-built classrooms with age-appropriate learning centers. The facility includes multiple outdoor playgrounds, a commercial kitchen serving nutritious meals, and comprehensive safety protocols including background-checked staff and regular safety drills.
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Chesterbrook Academy Preschool
Spring Education Group
Chesterbrook Academy provides a comprehensive private school experience starting from infancy through elementary grades. Their research-based curriculum emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and character development with small class sizes and individualized learning paths. The center features dedicated art and music studios, STEM labs, and multiple age-appropriate playgrounds. Staff includes certified teachers with ongoing professional development, and the facility maintains enhanced security systems, health and safety protocols, and nutritious meal programs. The academy offers extended hours and enrichment programs including foreign language exposure and technology integration.
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The Malvern School
The Malvern School
The Malvern School of Media offers an advanced proprietary curriculum called The Malvern School Curriculum for Excellence, which integrates play-based learning with academic preparation. The program emphasizes literacy development, mathematical reasoning, scientific exploration, and creative arts. The facility features bright, spacious classrooms with natural lighting, multiple outdoor learning environments, and dedicated spaces for music, movement, and technology. All lead teachers hold four-year degrees in education, and the school maintains rigorous safety standards including secured entry, comprehensive background checks, and health monitoring systems. The center provides enrichment programs including yoga, music, and gardening.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Media, PA
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Media, PA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Media, PA, the average cost for full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,800 per month, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging $1,000 to $1,500 per month. These costs can vary based on the type of center (corporate chain vs. in-home), staff-to-child ratios, and included amenities. For financial assistance, Delaware County residents can apply for Pennsylvania's Child Care Works (CCW) subsidized program, which is income-based. Additionally, some local centers may offer sibling discounts or scholarships. It's highly recommended to contact the Delaware County Assistance Office or use the COMPASS Pennsylvania website to check eligibility for subsidies.
How long are typical waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Media, and what can I do to secure a spot sooner?
Waitlists for highly-rated licensed daycare centers in Media can be significant, especially for infant rooms, often ranging from 6 to 12 months or more. Popular centers in the borough or near the courthouse area tend to have the longest lists. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy, get on multiple lists (even for centers slightly outside Media in neighboring towns like Springfield or Swarthmore), and follow up with centers every 2-3 months to express continued interest. Many centers also prioritize siblings of current enrollees and children of staff, so inquire about those policies. Consider registering for a part-time spot initially if a full-time opening isn't available.
What are the key differences between a Pennsylvania-licensed group daycare home and a childcare center in Media?
In Media, you'll find both licensed childcare centers and licensed group daycare homes (often called family childcare homes). Centers are larger facilities, often in commercial buildings, serving more children with multiple staff and classrooms. They typically offer more structured curricula and may have longer hours. Licensed group homes operate out of a provider's residence, can care for up to 12 children (with assistants), and often provide a more home-like, mixed-age setting. Both are regulated by the PA Department of Human Services (DHS) and undergo inspections, but ratios and physical environment rules differ. Homes can offer more flexibility but may have less backup coverage if the provider is ill. Media has a mix of both, catering to different family preferences.
Are there daycare options in Media that offer non-traditional hours for parents working shifts or weekends?
Finding daycare with extended, overnight, or weekend hours in Media is challenging but not impossible. Most traditional centers operate on a standard 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM schedule, Monday through Friday. For non-traditional hours, your best bet is to search for licensed family/group daycare homes, as some providers may offer more flexible hours to accommodate shift workers. You can use the Pennsylvania DHS "Child Care Finder" website and filter for programs that list "nights/weekends" in their profile. Additionally, networking through local parent groups on social media (like "Media, PA Moms") can help you find smaller, in-home providers willing to accommodate atypical schedules. Be prepared for potentially higher rates for these specialized hours.
What should I look for during a tour of a daycare facility in Media, and are there any local resources to check a center's compliance history?
During a tour in Media, observe the cleanliness, safety (outlet covers, secure gates), and whether children appear engaged and happy. Ask about staff qualifications, turnover rates, and the daily schedule. Inquire about their sick policy, outdoor play access (like at nearby parks), and how they handle food if your child has allergies. Crucially, always verify the facility's license and compliance history. You can use the Pennsylvania DHS "Child Care Finder" tool to search for any licensed provider in Media by name or zip code (19063). This public database shows the license status, capacity, and any recent regulatory compliance reports, including violations and inspections. This due diligence is essential for your child's safety and your peace of mind.