The Best Daycare Centers in Morgan, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Morgan. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Morgan
The Goddard School of York (West)
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of York (West) offers a comprehensive 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, delivered by qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. What sets this center apart is their focus on STEAM learning, daily communication with parents through the proprietary mobile app, and their commitment to developing confidence and school readiness in children through play-based learning experiences.
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Chesterbrook Academy Preschool
Spring Education Group
Chesterbrook Academy provides a balanced educational approach combining academic excellence with character development. Their proprietary Links to Learning curriculum focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, and Spanish language exposure. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, dedicated playgrounds for different age groups, and classrooms equipped with interactive technology. Teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The academy stands out for their small class sizes, individualized learning plans, and strong emphasis on building social-emotional skills through structured activities and guided play.
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The Goddard School of Lancaster
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Lancaster offers a play-based learning environment with a structured academic foundation. Their program includes language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and creative arts, delivered through hands-on learning centers. The facility maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios, with all lead teachers holding degrees in early childhood education or related fields. Safety features include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. This center distinguishes itself through their focus on individualized development tracking, nutritious meal programs, and extensive parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Morgan, PA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Morgan, Pennsylvania, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Morgan, Pennsylvania, all childcare facilities serving more than three unrelated children must be licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). This includes regular inspections for health, safety, and program standards. To verify a facility's compliance and view its most recent inspection reports, you can use the publicly accessible **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** website. You can search by provider name or zip code (for Morgan, typically 15064) to see their license status, any regulatory violations, and their STAR 1-4 quality rating. It's a crucial first step for any parent to ensure the daycare operates legally and meets state-mandated standards for staff-to-child ratios, background checks, and facility safety.
What is the average cost of full-time infant daycare in Morgan, PA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Morgan area, full-time infant daycare typically ranges from **$900 to $1,300 per month**, though prices can vary based on the type of center (corporate chain vs. in-home) and its STAR quality rating. For toddler care, costs may drop slightly to $800-$1,100 monthly. Pennsylvania offers financial assistance through the **Child Care Works (CCW) subsidized childcare program**, administered by the Allegheny County Department of Human Services (as Morgan is in Allegheny County). Eligibility is based on family size, income, and reason for care (work, school, etc.). Additionally, you can inquire directly with providers about potential sibling discounts or private scholarships they may offer.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in and around Morgan, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants and toddlers, waitlists at licensed daycare centers in the Morgan/Upper St. Clair area can be **6 to 12 months long**. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on multiple waitlists during pregnancy or as soon as you know you will need care. When contacting centers, ask specific questions: their current waitlist length, the deposit policy to hold a spot (which is usually refundable in PA until you accept), and how often they update families on their position. Also, consider expanding your search to licensed family childcare homes in residential areas of Morgan, as they may have shorter wait times and offer a smaller group setting.
What are the options for part-time or flexible childcare schedules in Morgan, PA?
While many centers prioritize full-time enrollment, part-time options (e.g., 2-3 days a week) do exist in Morgan but are less common and may come with a higher daily rate. Your best bets for flexibility are: 1. **Licensed Family Child Care Homes:** These in-home providers often have more flexibility with scheduling. 2. **Drop-in Centers:** While not in Morgan proper, there are a few registered drop-in childcare facilities within a 20-minute drive in the South Hills of Pittsburgh for occasional needs. 3. **Nanny Shares:** Coordinating with another local family to share a nanny is a popular flexible option in Morgan's residential neighborhoods. Local parent Facebook groups (e.g., "South Hills Moms") are often used to connect families for this purpose. Always confirm that any part-time provider is licensed or registered with the state to ensure they meet safety standards.
Are there any daycare centers in Morgan that offer preschool or pre-K curriculum, and how do they align with Pennsylvania's early learning standards?
Yes, several daycare centers in the Morgan area offer integrated preschool programs for children ages 3-5. These programs are designed to align with the **Pennsylvania Early Learning Standards**, which cover key areas like language, math, science, and social-emotional development. Look for centers with a **STAR 3 or STAR 4 rating** from Pennsylvania's Keystone STARS quality initiative, as this indicates a strong commitment to a structured learning environment and qualified teachers. Some centers may also partner with the Allegheny County Pre-K Counts program, which provides free, high-quality pre-K to eligible families. When touring, ask to see the daily schedule, the curriculum framework used (like Creative Curriculum), and the teachers' qualifications in early childhood education.