The Best Daycare Centers in Rew, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Rew. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Rew
The Goddard School of Lancaster
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Lancaster offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social development with highly qualified teachers who hold degrees in early childhood education. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, modern classrooms. What sets this center apart is their comprehensive approach to child development, including yoga instruction, Spanish exposure, and hands-on learning activities that prepare children for elementary school success.
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Kindercare Learning Center at Lancaster
KinderCare Education
KinderCare Learning Center at Lancaster provides a nationally-recognized curriculum that focuses on early literacy, math, science, and social skills development. Their experienced teaching staff maintains low student-teacher ratios and receives ongoing professional development. The center features secure keypad entry, comprehensive safety protocols, and nutritious meal programs. Their unique approach includes Learning Adventures® enrichment programs in music, phonics, and STEM, along with regular parent communication through daily reports and parent-teacher conferences. The center serves as a reliable childcare option for families in the greater Lancaster area.
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The Children's Courtyard
Childcare Network
The Children's Courtyard offers a comprehensive early education program with a focus on school readiness and social-emotional development. Their research-based curriculum includes literacy-rich environments, hands-on math and science activities, and character development programs. The center features secure facilities with monitored access, age-appropriate learning centers, and outdoor play spaces designed for different age groups. Their qualified teaching staff maintains state-mandated ratios and participates in continuous training. The center stands out for their family engagement initiatives, including regular events and detailed progress reports that keep parents informed about their child's development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Rew, PA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Rew, PA, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Rew, Pennsylvania, all childcare centers and group daycare homes must be licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). Licensing ensures providers meet state standards for health, safety, staff qualifications (including background checks and training), child-to-staff ratios, and facility safety. Family daycare homes serving 4-6 unrelated children must also be registered. To verify a provider's compliance and view any inspection reports, you can use the free, public **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** tool online. Simply search by the provider's name or zip code (Rew is in Clarion County, typically 16253) to see their current license status, capacity, and any regulatory history.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Rew, PA, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In Rew and the surrounding Clarion County area, full-time daycare costs can vary. For an infant, you might expect an average of $800 to $1,100 per month, while toddler care often ranges from $700 to $950 per month. These rates are generally lower than in major Pennsylvania metros but can depend on the center's amenities and program type. Financial assistance is available through the state's **Child Care Works (CCW) subsidized child care program**, which helps eligible low-income families, those in job training, or parents pursuing education. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and need. You can apply through the Clarion County Assistance Office. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts.
Are there any unique local or nature-based childcare programs available near Rew, PA?
Given Rew's rural setting in Northwestern Pennsylvania, some childcare providers incorporate the natural environment into their programs. While specific "forest school" models may be more common in larger areas, several local home-based providers and centers in Clarion County emphasize outdoor play and exploration. You might find programs with large outdoor play areas, gardens, or regular nature walks. To locate these, specify your interest in "outdoor-focused" or "nature-based" care when contacting providers listed on the Pennsylvania Child Care Finder or through local parent networks on social media (like Clarion County community groups). This approach aligns well with the area's abundant green spaces and seasonal activities.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in and around Rew, PA, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Waitlist times in Rew and nearby towns like Clarion or Knox can vary significantly. For highly sought-after centers or infant care slots, waitlists of 3 to 9 months are not uncommon, especially as many facilities have limited capacity. To improve your chances, start your search early—ideally during pregnancy or several months before you need care. Contact multiple providers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $25-$75). Follow up politely every 2-3 months to express continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family daycare homes in Rew and neighboring communities, as they may have more immediate openings and offer a smaller, home-like setting.
What resources are available in Rew, PA, to help me evaluate and choose between different childcare options?
Parents in Rew have several valuable local resources. First, use the **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** for official data. Second, contact **Clarion County's Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 6**, which serves your area. They offer free referrals, quality information, and can explain the state's Keystone STARS quality rating system (a 1-4 STAR scale). You can also connect with other parents through local Facebook groups (e.g., "Clarion County Moms") for personal recommendations and experiences. When visiting a potential provider, ask for their STAR rating, their policies on sick children, daily schedules, and menus. Given Rew's location, also inquire about their plan for winter weather closures and transportation, if needed.