The Best Daycare Centers in Nanticoke, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Nanticoke. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Nanticoke
The Goddard School of Wilkes-Barre
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. Their play-based curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. All teachers are highly qualified with degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the facility features secure entry systems, comprehensive safety protocols, and age-appropriate learning environments. The school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and provides daily communication to parents about their child's activities and progress.
Daycare Services:
KinderCare at Wilkes-Barre
KinderCare Learning Companies
KinderCare provides a comprehensive early education curriculum that balances academic preparation with social-emotional development. Their research-based approach includes phonics-based reading readiness, mathematics, science, and creative arts. The center features secure keypad entry, trained health and safety coordinators, and nutritious meal programs. Teachers participate in ongoing professional development and many hold degrees in early childhood education. The facility offers both structured learning activities and ample playtime in safe, modern classrooms designed specifically for each age group.
Daycare Services:
Building Blocks Learning Center
Building Blocks Learning Center
Building Blocks Learning Center offers a nurturing environment with a balanced curriculum that combines structured learning and creative play. Their educational approach focuses on developing the whole child through literacy-based activities, hands-on science and math experiences, and social skills development. The center maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios and employs experienced early childhood educators. Safety features include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and regular safety drills. The facility provides age-appropriate learning materials and spacious play areas, with strong emphasis on parent communication and involvement in children's educational journey.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Nanticoke, PA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Nanticoke, PA?
In Nanticoke and the surrounding Luzerne County area, full-time daycare costs can vary based on the type of facility and the child's age. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay approximately $180 to $250 per week for an infant or toddler. In-home family childcare providers may offer slightly lower rates, typically ranging from $150 to $200 per week. These costs are generally lower than the state average for Pennsylvania, reflecting the local cost of living. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, diapers, and curriculum materials. Financial assistance is available for qualifying families through Pennsylvania's Child Care Works (CCW) subsidy program, and some local providers may offer sibling discounts.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Nanticoke is properly licensed and check their compliance history?
All childcare providers in Pennsylvania, including those in Nanticoke, must be licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). You can verify a provider's license and review their inspection history online through the **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** website. This public database allows you to search by provider name, city, or zip code (like 18634 for Nanticoke) and view their current license status, capacity, and any recent compliance reports. It's highly recommended to review these reports for any violations or corrective actions. You can also contact the Northeast Regional Office of OCDEL for additional verification or to ask specific questions about a provider's record.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Nanticoke, and what's the best strategy for securing a spot?
Waitlists for infant care, in particular, can be common at the more sought-after licensed centers in Nanticoke and the greater Wilkes-Barre area. It's not unusual for a waitlist to be 3 to 6 months long for an infant opening. The best strategy is to start your search early, ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. Contact multiple providers—including both centers and licensed family homes—to get on their lists. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee, which is standard practice. Don't limit your search to Nanticoke proper; consider nearby communities like Hanover Township, Plymouth, or Kingston, which may have different availability. Following up with providers every 4-6 weeks can also help keep your family's name top-of-mind.
What types of childcare programs are most commonly available for school-age children in Nanticoke during the summer and after school?
For school-age children in the Greater Nanticoke Area School District, several options exist. Many local daycare centers offer summer camp programs and before/after-school care that include transportation from district elementary schools. The Nanticoke area also has community-based options, such as programs offered through the Greater Nanticoke Area Recreation Board or the YMCA of Greater Brandywine (which has branches in nearby Wilkes-Barre). These often feature structured activities, field trips, and homework help. Additionally, some local churches and the Nanticoke Historical Society may host seasonal day camps. It's advisable to inquire about registration deadlines in early spring for summer programs, as they can fill quickly.
What are the key local resources for parents seeking help with finding and paying for childcare in Nanticoke?
The primary local resource is the **Child Care Information Service (CCIS) of Luzerne County**, which is administered by the United Way of Wyoming Valley. They serve as the county's designated referral and subsidy agency. You can contact them for a personalized list of licensed providers in Nanticoke that meet your specific needs (hours, age of child, etc.). They also manage the application process for the **Child Care Works (CCW)** subsidy, which helps eligible families with the cost of care. Another valuable resource is the **Pennsylvania Keys to Quality Early Learning** website, which provides quality ratings (STARS) for programs. For immediate, local word-of-mouth recommendations, the "Nanticoke, PA" community Facebook groups are often used by parents to ask about provider experiences.