The Best Daycare Centers in Nazareth, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Nazareth. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Nazareth
KinderCare Learning Center at Nazareth
KinderCare Education
This nationally accredited center offers a comprehensive curriculum focused on early childhood development through play-based learning and structured activities. Features include age-appropriate classrooms, secure entry systems, and certified early childhood educators. The center emphasizes literacy development, STEM activities, and social-emotional learning. Parents appreciate the consistent communication through daily reports and the center's commitment to safety with strict security protocols and regular health screenings.
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The Learning Experience - Bethlehem
The Learning Experience
Located just 10 minutes from Nazareth, this highly-rated center features a proprietary curriculum that includes early literacy, mathematics, and character development programs. The facility includes modern classrooms, indoor and outdoor play areas, and advanced security systems. Staff members hold early childhood education certifications and receive ongoing professional development. The center is known for its phonics-based reading program, interactive learning technology, and emphasis on building confidence and social skills in young children.
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Lehigh Valley Children's Centers - Nazareth
Lehigh Valley Children's Centers
As part of the respected Lehigh Valley Children's Centers network, this facility provides high-quality early childhood education with a focus on individualized learning plans. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios, state-certified educators, and a curriculum that emphasizes cognitive, physical, and social development. The program includes nutritious meal service, regular developmental assessments, and family engagement opportunities. Known for its inclusive environment and strong community connections, the center serves as a trusted local option for Nazareth families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Nazareth, PA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Nazareth, PA?
In Nazareth and the surrounding Northampton County area, full-time daycare costs can vary significantly based on the type of facility. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $1,200 and $1,600 per month for infant care. For toddlers, the cost typically ranges from $1,000 to $1,400 per month. In-home family daycare providers often charge slightly less, generally ranging from $800 to $1,200 monthly. These rates are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, and facility amenities. It's important to note that Pennsylvania's Child Care Works (CCW) subsidy program is available for eligible families in Nazareth to help offset these costs.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Nazareth is properly licensed and check their compliance history?
All childcare providers in Pennsylvania, including those in Nazareth, 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 status and review their inspection history, including any violations or corrective actions, through the publicly accessible **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** website. Simply search by the provider's name or zip code (18064). We also recommend contacting the local **Northampton County Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC Region 20)** for additional guidance and to ask about any local reputational knowledge of providers.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Nazareth, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common for many daycare centers and highly-regarded in-home providers in Nazareth, especially for infant spots, which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. It is strongly advised to begin your search **at least 6 to 12 months** before you need care. For infant care, starting during pregnancy is not uncommon. When touring facilities, always ask specifically about their waitlist process: the length, any fees to join, and how often they update families on their position. Exploring options in neighboring communities like Bath, Easton, or Bethlehem may provide more availability if Nazareth waitlists are extensive.
What are my options for part-time or non-traditional hour childcare in Nazareth?
Finding part-time or non-traditional hour care (evenings, weekends) in Nazareth can be challenging, as most centers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM schedule. Your best options are often licensed family home daycare providers, who may offer more flexible schedules, or seeking a private nanny or babysitter. You can search for providers offering "variable schedules" on the PA Child Care Finder. Additionally, local Facebook groups like "Nazareth, PA Community Board" or "Lehigh Valley Moms" are often used by parents to find and recommend caregivers who accommodate shift work or part-time needs.
What resources are available in Nazareth to help me find and choose quality childcare?
The primary local resource is the **Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) for Region 20**, which serves Northampton County. They offer free, personalized referrals to licensed providers, help understanding the Child Care Works subsidy, and guidance on what to look for in a quality program. You can contact them by phone or visit their website. Additionally, the **Nazareth Area Public Library** may have community bulletin boards with information, and the **Nazareth Borough website** can provide general community resource links. Attending local family events at the Nazareth Borough Park or the Nazareth YMCA can also provide word-of-mouth recommendations from other parents.