The Best Daycare Centers in Venetia, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Venetia. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Venetia
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in McMurray is a highly-rated childcare center known for its F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience), which emphasizes play-based learning and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) education. Teachers are qualified with degrees in early childhood education and maintain low student-to-teacher ratios for personalized attention. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Parents praise its structured curriculum, daily communication through an app, and focus on social-emotional development, making it a top choice for families in the Venetia area.
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KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education
KinderCare in Canonsburg offers a research-based curriculum that includes phonics, math, and social skills development, aligned with Pennsylvania early learning standards. The center employs certified teachers with ongoing training in child development and safety protocols like secured access and regular drills. Facilities include interactive learning centers, nutritious meal programs, and enclosed playgrounds. Highly regarded for its inclusive environment and strong parent partnerships, it provides flexible scheduling and tracks developmental milestones, serving Venetia families with reliable, high-quality care.
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Peters Township Early Learning Center
Independent
Peters Township Early Learning Center is a locally owned facility celebrated for its hands-on, project-based curriculum that integrates literacy, math, and creative arts. Staff members hold early childhood certifications and maintain small class sizes to ensure individualized learning. The center prioritizes safety with monitored access, clean environments, and emergency preparedness. It features modern classrooms, outdoor play spaces, and a focus on community involvement. Parents highlight its warm atmosphere, experienced teachers, and effective communication, making it a trusted option for childcare near Venetia.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Venetia, PA
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Venetia, PA?
In Venetia and the surrounding South Hills area of Pennsylvania, full-time daycare costs can vary significantly based on the type of facility. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $1,200 and $1,600 per month for infant care. Toddler care typically ranges from $1,000 to $1,400 per month. Home-based family childcare in the Venetia/Peters Township area often offers a slightly lower rate, generally between $800 and $1,200 monthly. These costs are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, and facility amenities. It's important to note that Pennsylvania offers childcare subsidy programs through Child Care Works (CCW) for eligible families, which can help offset these expenses.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare in Venetia?
All childcare providers in Venetia must be licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). You can verify a provider's license and review their compliance history through the **Pennsylvania Child Care Finder** website. This public tool allows you to search by provider name or location to see their license status, capacity, and any reported violations or inspection reports. We strongly recommend checking this for any center or family home you are considering. You can also contact the DHS's regional office that oversees Washington County for additional information.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in the Venetia area, and how far in advance should I apply?
Yes, waitlists are common for many sought-after daycare centers and preschools in Venetia and the greater Peters Township region, especially for infant classrooms. It is highly advisable to begin your search and get on waitlists **6 to 12 months** before your needed start date. For popular programs affiliated with local schools or with strong educational reputations, even earlier is better. When touring facilities, always ask about their current waitlist length and process. Some family childcare homes may have shorter wait times or immediate openings, providing a good alternative while you wait for a center spot.
What are the main types of childcare options available specifically in Venetia?
Parents in Venetia typically have three primary licensed options: 1. **Childcare Centers:** These are larger facilities, such as the Goddard School or Primrose School in nearby communities, offering structured programs for multiple age groups. 2. **Family Childcare Homes:** Licensed providers caring for a smaller group of children in their private residence. These are often found in Venetia's residential neighborhoods and can offer a more home-like setting. 3. **Part-Day Preschools:** Several local churches and community organizations, like those in neighboring McMurray or Canonsburg, offer preschool programs for 3-5 year olds, usually for 2-3 half-days per week. Additionally, many families utilize informal arrangements with nannies or babysitters, though these are not state-licensed.
What local resources or organizations in Washington County can help me find and choose quality childcare?
A key local resource is the **Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 5**, which serves Washington County. The ELRC offers free, personalized referrals to licensed childcare providers based on your specific needs (location, hours, child's age). Their specialists can also guide you through the Child Care Works subsidy application and explain quality indicators. You can contact them via phone or their website. Furthermore, the **Peters Township Public Library** often hosts community resource fairs and can be a good place to connect with other parents for personal recommendations on local providers.