The Best Daycare Centers in Rome, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Rome. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Rome
God's Little Treasures Christian Child Care & Learning Center
Independent
God's Little Treasures is a highly-regarded Christian childcare center serving the Rome area with a comprehensive educational program. They offer a structured curriculum that combines faith-based learning with early childhood development standards. The center features qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials, low student-to-teacher ratios, and a safe, nurturing environment. Their program includes age-appropriate learning activities, outdoor play areas, nutritious meals, and strong parent communication. The center is known for its family-like atmosphere and commitment to each child's individual development.
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Early Learning Center at Troy
Independent
The Early Learning Center at Troy provides high-quality early childhood education serving families in Rome and surrounding communities. They implement a research-based curriculum focused on social-emotional development, literacy, and STEM foundations. The center features state-certified teachers, modern security systems, and developmentally appropriate learning environments. Their program includes structured learning centers, outdoor exploration, creative arts, and regular developmental assessments. Parents consistently praise the center's professional staff, clean facilities, and effective communication about their child's progress and daily activities.
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Towanda Child Development Center
Independent
Towanda Child Development Center serves the Rome area with a comprehensive early childhood program that emphasizes hands-on learning and individual development. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum standards with personalized learning plans for each child. The center features experienced educators with background checks and ongoing professional development, secure facilities with monitored access, and age-appropriate learning materials. They offer structured daily routines that balance academic preparation with play-based learning, nutritious meal programs, and regular parent-teacher conferences. The center is noted for its inclusive environment and commitment to preparing children for kindergarten success.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Rome, PA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Rome, PA, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Rome, 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 family childcare homes, group homes, and childcare centers. Licensed providers must meet strict standards for staff qualifications (including background checks and training in child abuse recognition and first aid), child-to-staff ratios, safety inspections, and health protocols. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** tool online or contact the DHS Northeast Regional Office, which oversees Bradford County. It's highly recommended to check for any recent violations or corrective action plans before enrolling your child.
What is the typical cost range for full-time infant and toddler daycare in Rome, PA, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Rome area and surrounding Bradford County, full-time daycare costs can vary. For an infant, you can expect to pay approximately **$175 to $250 per week**. For toddlers, the range is typically **$150 to $225 per week**. These rates are generally lower than in major metropolitan areas of PA but are influenced by the type of facility (center vs. home-based) and the specific services offered. For financial assistance, Pennsylvania's **Child Care Works (CCW) subsidized childcare program** is the primary resource. Eligibility is based on family income, work, or school requirements. You can apply through the Bradford County Assistance Office. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in the Rome area, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Rome, waitlists for the most sought-after centers and licensed home-based providers can be significant, especially for infants. It is not uncommon for waitlists to be **6 to 12 months long**. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Contact multiple providers in Rome and nearby towns like Towanda, Troy, or Wysox. Get on multiple lists, even if a facility isn't your top choice. Be proactive—check in every few months to confirm your spot on the list and express continued interest. Some providers may require a non-refundable deposit to hold a future spot once one is offered.
Are there any unique childcare options in Rome, PA, such as part-time, drop-in, or care for non-traditional hours?
Given Rome's rural setting, traditional full-time, weekday care is most common. However, options for part-time, drop-in, or non-traditional hours are very limited and not guaranteed. Some licensed family childcare homes may offer more flexible arrangements by individual agreement. For true drop-in or occasional care, your best bet may be to look toward the larger service hub of **Towanda**, about a 15-minute drive away, where some centers might offer more flexible packages. For parents working evenings, weekends, or shifts, networking with other local parents to find a trusted, private babysitter is often the most practical solution in the immediate Rome area.
What resources are available in Rome, PA, to help me evaluate and choose between a home-based daycare and a childcare center?
Start by using the Pennsylvania Child Care Finder to locate and compare all licensed options in the Rome zip code (18837). For home-based programs, look for those listed as "Family Child Care Homes" or "Group Child Care Homes." Key local considerations include: **transportation** (centers may have vans, homes typically do not), **environment** (homes offer a family setting, centers may have more structured curricula and peer interaction), and **backup care** (a center is less likely to close unexpectedly if a staff member is sick). The **Bradford County Library** in Towanda may have community bulletin boards with information. Most importantly, schedule in-person visits. Ask providers about their daily routines, emergency plans for rural locations, and how they handle closures for local weather events. Trust your instincts about the caregiver's interaction with children and the cleanliness and safety of the environment.