The Best Daycare Centers in Newfoundland, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Newfoundland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Newfoundland
The Goddard School of Honesdale
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Honesdale is a highly-regarded childcare center known for its play-based FLEX Learning Program, which emphasizes literacy, STEM, and social-emotional development. Staffed by qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials, the center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and a safe, nurturing environment. Facilities include age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play areas, and secure entry systems. Parents praise the center's strong communication, individualized learning plans, and focus on developmental milestones, making it a top choice for families in the Newfoundland area.
Daycare Services:
KinderCare Learning Center of Scranton
KinderCare Education
KinderCare Learning Center in Scranton offers a balanced curriculum focused on academic readiness and social skills through its proprietary Early Foundations program. The center features certified teachers, rigorous safety protocols including secured access and health screenings, and nutritious meal programs. With spacious indoor and outdoor play areas, it supports holistic child development. High parent satisfaction stems from consistent progress updates, flexible scheduling, and a commitment to inclusive, diverse learning environments, serving families from Newfoundland and surrounding regions.
Daycare Services:
Wayne County YMCA Child Care Center
Wayne County YMCA
The Wayne County YMCA Child Care Center provides a community-focused approach with an emphasis on physical activity, character development, and academic growth through its YMCA curriculum. Staff are trained in CPR and early childhood education, ensuring a safe and engaging setting. The center includes modern classrooms, gym facilities, and outdoor play spaces, and offers financial assistance options. Parents value the strong sense of community, transparent communication, and focus on healthy living, making it a reliable option for childcare needs in the Newfoundland area.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Newfoundland, PA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Newfoundland, PA, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Pennsylvania, all childcare providers caring for four or more unrelated children must be licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). This includes centers, group homes, and family homes in Newfoundland. Licensed providers must meet strict standards for staff qualifications (including background checks and training), child-to-staff ratios, safety, and health. To verify a facility's license and compliance history, you can use the free, public **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** tool online. You can search by provider name or zip code (18445 for Newfoundland) to see their license status, any recent inspections, and any regulatory violations. This is a crucial first step in your search.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in the Newfoundland area, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In the Newfoundland and broader Pocono region, costs can vary significantly based on the type of care. For a licensed childcare center, full-time infant care typically ranges from **$1,000 to $1,400 per month**. Toddler care may be slightly less, around **$900 to $1,200 per month**. Family daycare homes often offer more affordable rates, potentially between $700-$1,000 monthly. Financial assistance is available for qualifying families through Pennsylvania's **Child Care Works (CCW) subsidy program**. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (work, school, etc.). You can apply through the Carbon County Assistance Office, which serves the Newfoundland area. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts.
Given Newfoundland's rural location, how can I find and evaluate in-home family daycare options, and what should I look for during a visit?
Finding licensed family daycare homes in a rural area like Newfoundland often relies on local networks and specific search tools. Beyond the Pennsylvania Child Care Finder, ask for recommendations at local hubs like the Newfoundland Area Library, the post office, or community Facebook groups (e.g., "Newfoundland, PA Community"). When evaluating a home daycare, ensure it is **DHS-licensed**. During a visit, look for: a clean, safe, and child-proofed environment; a clear daily schedule; adequate outdoor play space; appropriate toys; and ask about the provider's emergency plan, discipline policy, and backup care arrangements. Crucially, observe how the provider interacts with the children. Trust your instincts about the home's atmosphere and the provider's experience and philosophy.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in the Newfoundland/Pocono region, and how far in advance should I start my search?
Yes, waitlists are very common, especially for infant care slots in licensed centers. The high demand, coupled with limited facilities in a smaller community like Newfoundland, means parents should start their search **as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 6-12 months before their needed start date**. Many popular centers in nearby towns like Mount Pocono or Hamlin have lengthy waitlists. When contacting providers, always ask about their current waitlist policy, estimated timeline, and if a deposit is required to hold a spot. Being flexible with your start date can improve your chances. Exploring multiple options, including licensed family homes, is highly recommended to increase your likelihood of securing care.
What are some unique considerations for childcare in Newfoundland related to its rural setting and weather?
Newfoundland's rural character and Northeastern Pennsylvania weather present specific considerations. First, **transportation and commute times** are key. Confirm the provider's hours align with your commute to Scranton, the Poconos, or other work centers, and ask about their policy for late pickups due to traffic or weather. Second, **winter weather preparedness** is critical. Inquire about the provider's snow day/closure policy, how they communicate delays/closures, and if they follow a specific school district's schedule (like Western Wayne). Third, ask about **outdoor play and activities**. A good provider should have safe outdoor space and a plan for active play, but also engaging indoor activities for long winter days. Finally, ensure they have a robust plan for emergencies, given potentially longer response times for emergency services.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Newfoundland: