The Best Daycare Centers in Silver Spring, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Silver Spring. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Silver Spring
The Goddard School of Mechanicsburg
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Mechanicsburg offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their state-licensed teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds. Curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social development with daily communication to parents through the Goddard Connect app. They maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios and follow strict health and safety protocols.
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Chesterbrook Academy Preschool
Spring Education Group
Chesterbrook Academy provides a comprehensive educational foundation through their Links to Learning curriculum, which integrates academic preparation with character development. The school features secure facilities with coded entry systems, modern classrooms, and age-appropriate learning centers. Their qualified teachers create individualized learning plans and maintain small class sizes. The program includes foreign language exposure, technology integration, and hands-on science activities. Parents receive regular progress updates and photos through the proprietary communication system. The center is known for its structured yet nurturing environment.
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Kindercare Learning Center at Silver Spring
KinderCare Education
This KinderCare location serves the Silver Spring area with research-based curriculum that supports cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. The center features secure keypad entry, dedicated age-based classrooms, and large outdoor play areas. Their team includes early childhood professionals with CPR and First Aid certification. The curriculum includes phonics-based reading readiness, math concepts, and STEM activities. They offer nutritious meals and snacks through their food program and maintain detailed safety protocols including regular security drills. Parent communication includes daily reports and regular teacher conferences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Silver Spring, PA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Silver Spring, PA, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Silver Spring, PA, 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 family daycare homes, group homes, and childcare centers. Licensed facilities must meet strict standards for staff qualifications (including background checks and training), child-to-staff ratios, safety protocols, and facility requirements. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** tool online or contact the DHS's regional office. It's highly recommended to check for any recent violations or corrective action plans as part of your research.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Silver Spring, PA?
The cost of daycare in Silver Spring, PA, varies based on the child's age and the type of care. For full-time infant care (children under 1 year), parents can expect to pay an average of **$1,100 to $1,400 per month** at a licensed center. Toddler care (ages 1-3) typically ranges from **$950 to $1,250 per month**. Family daycare homes may be slightly less expensive. These costs are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, and facility amenities. Pennsylvania offers financial assistance through programs like **Child Care Works (CCW) Subsidy** for eligible families, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Silver Spring, and what's the best strategy for securing a spot?
Yes, due to high demand and limited capacity, many reputable daycare centers in and around Silver Spring, PA, have waitlists, especially for infant rooms. It's not uncommon for waitlists to be 6 to 12 months long. The best strategy is to **begin your search during pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before your needed start date**. Contact multiple centers to get on their lists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $25-$100). Follow up every few months to express continued interest. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family daycare homes in the township, which may have more immediate availability and offer a smaller, home-like setting.
What local resources or referral services are available to help parents find and evaluate childcare options in Silver Spring?
Parents in Silver Spring have several excellent local resources. The primary resource is the **Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 7**, which serves Cumberland County. They offer free, personalized referrals to licensed and certified providers, help with understanding the Child Care Works subsidy program, and can provide information on quality indicators. You can contact them online or by phone. Additionally, local parenting groups on social media platforms like Facebook (e.g., "Silver Spring, PA Community" groups) are valuable for getting personal recommendations and experiences from other parents in the township.
What are some key quality indicators I should look for when touring a daycare facility in Silver Spring?
When touring facilities in Silver Spring, look beyond the basics. Key indicators include: **1. Keystone STARS Rating:** Pennsylvania's quality rating system; aim for a STAR 3 or STAR 4 facility. **2. Staff Engagement:** Observe if caregivers are on the floor interacting with children, not just supervising. Low staff turnover is a positive sign. **3. Safety & Cleanliness:** Check for secure entrances, clean play and diaper-changing areas, and clearly posted emergency plans. **4. Curriculum & Communication:** Ask about their educational philosophy and how they communicate daily activities and milestones (many use apps like Tadpoles or Brightwheel). **5. Outdoor Play:** Ensure they have a safe, dedicated outdoor space, which is vital for development. Trust your instincts about the overall warmth and professionalism of the environment.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Silver Spring: