The Best Daycare Centers in South Sterling, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in South Sterling. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in South Sterling
The Goddard School of Moscow
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Moscow provides a premier early childhood education program serving families throughout the Pocono Mountains region. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) focuses on play-based learning across seven developmental domains. The school features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and real-time parent communication through the Goddard Connect app. Certified teachers implement age-appropriate STEAM curriculum with small class sizes and low student-to-teacher ratios. The facility includes modern classrooms, dedicated playgrounds for different age groups, and enrichment programs in music, yoga, and foreign language.
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Hamlin Early Learning Center
Independent
Hamlin Early Learning Center offers comprehensive childcare services with a strong focus on nature-based learning and developmental appropriateness. Their curriculum emphasizes hands-on exploration and social-emotional development through structured play and guided activities. The center maintains rigorous safety protocols including secured entry systems, comprehensive staff training in pediatric first aid/CPR, and regular safety drills. Qualified early childhood educators implement Creative Curriculum with progress tracking through daily reports and parent-teacher conferences. The facility features spacious classrooms, large outdoor play areas with natural elements, and nutritious meal programs following USDA guidelines.
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Growing Years Childcare and Learning Center
Independent
Growing Years Childcare and Learning Center provides a nurturing educational environment with a balanced approach to academic preparation and social development. Their research-based curriculum incorporates literacy development, mathematical thinking, and scientific exploration through hands-on learning centers. The center maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios with teachers holding degrees in early childhood education or related fields. Security features include monitored entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular facility safety inspections. The program emphasizes character development, conflict resolution skills, and community awareness through age-appropriate projects and activities. Facilities include dedicated infant rooms, preschool learning centers, and age-segmented playgrounds.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in South Sterling, PA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in South Sterling, PA, and are there any local assistance programs?
In South Sterling and the surrounding Pocono region, full-time daycare for infants typically ranges from $225 to $300 per week, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging $200 to $275 per week. These costs can vary based on the type of facility (home-based vs. center-based) and the specific programs offered. For financial assistance, Pennsylvania's Child Care Works (CCW) subsidy program is available to eligible families in Wayne County. You can apply through the Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 13, which serves our area. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly.
How can I verify that a daycare or preschool in South Sterling is properly licensed and check its compliance history?
All licensed childcare providers in Pennsylvania are regulated by the Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). You can verify a provider's license and review their inspection history, including any violations, through the publicly accessible **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** website. Simply search by the provider's name or zip code (18460 for South Sterling). It's highly recommended to review the last 2-3 inspection reports for any patterns. You can also contact the local licensing representative for ELRC Region 13 for additional context. Always ensure the facility displays its current certificate of compliance.
Are there many year-round daycare options in South Sterling, or is care more seasonal due to the resort and tourism economy?
South Sterling does have a mix of both. While there are several established year-round daycare homes and small centers serving local families, the seasonal tourism and resort industry (like nearby ski areas and summer camps) can impact staffing and, in some cases, create a higher demand for part-time or seasonal care. It's advisable to inquire early about a provider's operational calendar. For reliable, year-round care, many families also look at options in nearby communities such as Hamlin or Honesdale. Planning ahead and getting on waitlists, especially for infant care, is crucial due to limited year-round slots.
What are the options for before- and after-school care for school-age children in the Western Wayne School District?
For children attending Western Wayne School District schools, there are a few primary options. The district itself may offer a Latchkey program at certain elementary schools; you should contact the district administration directly for current availability. Several licensed home-based daycare providers in South Sterling and the surrounding area offer transportation to and from local schools like Western Wayne Elementary. Additionally, community organizations like the YMCA in Honesdale (about a 20-minute drive) often provide bus transportation from district schools to their after-school programs. Exploring these options well before the school year starts is key, as spaces are limited.
Given South Sterling's rural location, what should I look for in a daycare's emergency preparedness plan, especially for weather-related closures?
This is a critical consideration. When touring facilities, ask specifically about their emergency plans. A reputable provider should have a detailed plan for severe weather (like heavy snowstorms common in the Poconos), power outages, and medical emergencies. Key things to look for include: a clear communication protocol for closures/delays (e.g., text alerts, phone tree), backup power or heating sources, stocked emergency supplies, and staff training in first aid/CPR. Also, inquire about their policy if roads become impassable—some home-based providers may have a plan for staff to stay overnight if necessary. Ensure their evacuation routes and shelter-in-place plans are documented and practiced.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near South Sterling: