The Best Daycare Centers in Milford, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Milford. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Milford
The Goddard School of Milford
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Milford offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social-emotional development with low student-to-teacher ratios. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences, with a strong focus on preparing children for kindergarten readiness.
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TLC Learning Center
Independent
TLC Learning Center serves the Milford area with comprehensive childcare services and a play-based learning curriculum. The center focuses on developmental milestones through structured activities and creative play. Their program includes age-appropriate learning centers, outdoor playgrounds, and enrichment activities. The staff maintains CPR and First Aid certifications with ongoing training in early childhood development. The center emphasizes safety with secure facilities, regular health inspections, and thorough background checks. Parents appreciate the nurturing environment and consistent communication about their child's progress and daily activities.
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Creative Learning Center
Independent
Creative Learning Center provides quality childcare with a focus on individualized attention and developmental appropriateness. Their curriculum integrates academic preparation with social skills development through hands-on learning experiences. The center features modern classrooms, secure outdoor play spaces, and specialized learning areas for different age groups. Qualified early childhood educators implement theme-based learning that encourages curiosity and exploration. The center maintains excellent safety records with comprehensive security measures and health protocols. Families value the center's family-oriented approach and commitment to creating a supportive learning environment for all children.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Milford, PA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Milford, PA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Milford, PA, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $1,100 to $1,400 per month, while preschool for a 3-5 year old generally costs between $900 and $1,200 per month. These rates can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum (like Montessori), and staff-to-child ratios. For financial assistance, Pennsylvania's Child Care Works (CCW) subsidy program is the primary resource for eligible families. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's highly recommended to contact the Pike County Human Services Agency for guidance on CCW eligibility and to inquire directly with providers about any private scholarship opportunities or payment plans they might offer.
How long are waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Milford, and when should I start looking for infant care?
Due to limited provider options in a smaller community like Milford, waitlists for licensed centers, especially for infant care, can be significant. It is not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. For infant care, parents are strongly advised to begin researching and contacting providers as soon as possible, ideally during the first trimester of pregnancy. For toddler or preschool openings, starting your search at least 4-6 months in advance is prudent. Be sure to get on multiple lists and check in periodically to update your information and express continued interest.
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Pennsylvania, and how can I verify a center's compliance in Milford?
All childcare centers in Pennsylvania must be licensed by the Department of Human Services (DHS). Key requirements include staff background checks (PA State Police, Child Abuse, and FBI), specific staff-to-child ratios by age group, health and safety training (including pediatric first-aid/CPR), and annual facility inspections. To verify a Milford provider's license status, compliance history, and any reported violations, you can use the free, public **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** tool online. This resource allows you to search by provider name or zip code (18337) and view inspection reports, which are crucial for making an informed decision.
Are there any nature-based or outdoor-focused childcare programs available in the Milford area?
Yes, the natural landscape of the Pocono Mountains region makes it an ideal location for nature-based programming. While specific dedicated "forest schools" may be limited, several local daycare centers and preschools in and around Milford incorporate significant outdoor education and play into their daily routines, taking advantage of local trails, parks, and their own natural playgrounds. When touring facilities, ask specifically about their outdoor philosophy, daily schedule for outside time (in all weather, with proper gear), and how nature is integrated into learning. This is a growing trend in the area, so inquiring directly is the best way to find a program that matches this preference.
What options exist for part-time, drop-in, or emergency childcare in Milford, PA?
Traditional, licensed daycare centers in Milford primarily cater to families needing consistent, full-time schedules. Options for part-time, drop-in, or last-minute care are very limited through these centers. Your best alternatives are to explore registered family daycare homes, which may offer more flexible arrangements, or to utilize qualified babysitters or nannies. Building a network with other local parents for shared babysitting or nanny shares can also be a valuable strategy. For true emergencies, there are no dedicated drop-in childcare facilities in immediate Milford; parents may need to look toward larger neighboring areas like the Stroudsburg/East Stroudsburg region, but availability is not guaranteed. Planning ahead is essential.