The Best Daycare Centers in Somerset, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Somerset. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Somerset
The Learning Lamp
The Learning Lamp
The Learning Lamp is a highly respected nonprofit childcare provider offering comprehensive early childhood education programs. They feature developmentally appropriate curriculum with strong emphasis on literacy, STEM activities, and social-emotional learning. Their qualified teachers maintain low student-teacher ratios and use Creative Curriculum approaches. The facility includes secure access systems, modern classrooms, and age-appropriate outdoor play areas. They provide nutritious meals and snacks through their food program and offer flexible scheduling options for working families.
Daycare Services:
Little Eagles Learning Center
Little Eagles Learning Center
Little Eagles Learning Center provides quality childcare with a focus on individualized learning and development. Their curriculum incorporates hands-on learning experiences, early literacy development, and character education. The center features secure facilities with camera monitoring, certified early childhood educators, and structured daily routines that balance learning and play. They emphasize parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences, and maintain clean, organized classrooms with modern educational materials and safe outdoor play spaces.
Daycare Services:
The Children's Center
The Children's Center at UPJ
Located in nearby Johnstown (serving the Somerset area), The Children's Center is a NAEYC-accredited facility affiliated with University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown. They offer high-quality early childhood education with research-based curriculum and highly qualified teaching staff, many with bachelor's or master's degrees in early childhood education. The program emphasizes project-based learning, social development, and school readiness skills. Facilities include secure environments, developmentally appropriate learning centers, and natural outdoor classrooms. They maintain excellent staff retention and strong parent partnerships through regular communication and involvement opportunities.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Somerset, PA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Somerset, PA?
In Somerset County, full-time daycare costs can vary based on the type of facility and the age of the child. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $175 to $250 per week for infant care. For toddlers, the range is typically $150 to $225 per week. Home-based family childcare is often slightly less expensive, ranging from $130 to $200 per week. These rates are generally lower than the state average, reflecting the cost of living in Somerset County. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. Additionally, Pennsylvania's Child Care Works (CCW) subsidy program is available for eligible families to help offset these costs.
How can I verify if a daycare or preschool in Somerset is properly licensed and check its compliance history?
All childcare providers in Somerset must be licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). The primary tool for verification is **Pennsylvania's COMPASS website**. You can search for licensed providers by county and view their inspection reports, which detail any regulatory violations and the steps taken to correct them. You can also call the **Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 5**, which serves Somerset County, at 1-888-461-3802 for assistance and information. Always visit a facility in person and ask the director to see their current certificate of compliance, which must be posted in a visible location.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Somerset, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Waitlists for high-quality, licensed daycare centers in Somerset can be significant, especially for infant care slots, which have stricter staff-to-child ratios. It is not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. For in-home family childcare, availability can be more sporadic but also fill quickly. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents or families planning a move start their search **at least 6-9 months before they need care**. Contact multiple providers to get on their interest lists. The ELRC Region 5 can also provide referrals to help you identify centers with current or upcoming openings.
What are the options for part-time or non-traditional hour childcare in Somerset for parents working shift jobs?
Finding part-time or evening/weekend care in Somerset can be challenging, as most traditional centers operate Monday-Friday from approximately 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Your best options are often licensed family childcare homes, as some providers offer more flexible hours to accommodate shift workers at local hospitals, manufacturing plants, or the tourism industry. It's crucial to inquire directly about availability for nights, weekends, or rotating schedules. Another resource is to network through local community groups or employer HR departments, as some workplaces may have partnerships or know of small, informal networks of caregivers. Always ensure any provider you use is licensed for the hours they are offering care.
What local resources in Somerset County can help me find and pay for quality childcare?
The key local resource is the **Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 5**. They serve as a single point of contact for Somerset County families. Their services include: * **Referrals:** A database of all licensed childcare providers (centers and homes). * **Subsidy Management:** They administer the **Child Care Works (CCW)** program, which provides financial assistance based on income and need. * **Quality Information:** They can guide you to providers with Keystone STARS ratings, Pennsylvania's quality rating system. You can contact ELRC Region 5 at 1-888-461-3802 or visit their website. Additionally, the **Somerset County Chamber of Commerce** and local Facebook community groups often have discussions and recommendations about childcare providers.