The Best Daycare Centers in Washington, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Washington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Washington
KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education LLC
KinderCare in Washington is highly regarded for its balanced learning approach that integrates play-based activities with structured curriculum to support social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. The center employs qualified teachers with early childhood education degrees and maintains low student-teacher ratios for personalized attention. Safety is prioritized with secure entry systems, regular background checks, and comprehensive emergency protocols. The curriculum includes literacy, math, and science activities tailored to age groups, along with nutritious meal programs and ample indoor/outdoor play spaces. Parent communication is strong through daily updates and involvement opportunities, contributing to high satisfaction rates in the community.
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The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in McMurray serves the Washington area with a play-based F.L.E.X.® Learning Program that emphasizes STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) activities and social-emotional development. Staff hold degrees in early childhood education and participate in ongoing training, ensuring high-quality instruction and low child-to-teacher ratios. The facility features secure, clean environments with monitored access, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor playgrounds. A focus on individualized learning plans and regular progress reports keeps parents engaged, while enrichment programs like yoga and foreign language exposure enhance the curriculum. Its longevity and positive parent reviews highlight its commitment to safety and educational excellence.
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The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience Academies of Early Education
The Learning Experience in Canonsburg is a top-rated center serving Washington with its proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum, which focuses on phonics, math, science, and social skills through hands-on activities. Highly qualified teachers, many with advanced certifications, provide individualized attention in safe, stimulating environments equipped with modern learning tools and secure entry systems. The center emphasizes character development and inclusivity, offering programs like philanthropy-based projects and music enrichment. Safety protocols include rigorous cleanliness standards and emergency drills, while parent involvement is encouraged through regular communications and events. With a track record of positive developmental outcomes, it stands out for its comprehensive approach and community integration.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Washington, PA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Washington, PA, and how can I verify a facility's status?
In Washington, PA, all childcare centers and group daycare homes must be licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). Family daycare homes caring for 4-6 unrelated children must be registered. Licensing ensures facilities meet state standards for health, safety, staff qualifications (including background checks and training), and child-to-staff ratios. You can verify a provider's license status and view any compliance history by using the DHS "Child Care Finder" tool online or by contacting the Southwest Regional OCDEL office, which oversees Washington County. It's highly recommended to check this before enrolling your child.
What is the average cost of full-time infant daycare in Washington, PA, and are there financial assistance programs available?
In Washington, PA, the average cost for full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $800 to $1,200 per month, depending on the center's amenities, curriculum, and age of the child. Prices may be slightly lower for family daycare homes. For financial assistance, Pennsylvania offers the Child Care Works (CCW) subsidized childcare program for eligible families based on income, work, or school requirements. Applications are processed through the Washington County Assistance Office. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's important to inquire directly.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Washington, PA, and what strategies can I use to secure a spot?
Yes, waitlists are common, especially for infant and toddler rooms at highly-rated centers in Washington, PA. It's advisable to begin your search and get on waitlists 6-12 months before your needed start date, if possible. Strategies include contacting multiple providers (including both centers and registered family homes in Washington and surrounding townships like North Franklin or South Strabane), asking about the typical waitlist timeline, and staying in periodic contact to express continued interest. Some facilities may prioritize children of existing families or full-time enrollments, so be clear about your needs.
What are some key local resources for finding and evaluating childcare options in Washington County?
Parents in Washington, PA, have several valuable local resources. The primary tool is Pennsylvania's **COMPASS website** and the linked **Child Care Finder**, which lists all licensed providers. For personalized referrals and information on quality (like Keystone STARS ratings), you can contact the **Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 5**, which serves Washington County. They offer free counseling and can explain quality indicators. Additionally, local parenting groups on social media (e.g., Facebook groups for Washington, PA parents) often provide personal recommendations and experiences with area daycares.
How does Pennsylvania's Keystone STARS quality rating system work, and what should I look for in Washington, PA?
Keystone STARS is Pennsylvania's voluntary quality rating system for early learning programs. Ratings range from STAR 1 (meeting state licensing requirements) to STAR 4 (exceeding standards with high-quality practices). In Washington, PA, look for programs with a STAR 3 or STAR 4 rating, as they indicate higher staff education, better learning environments, and stronger family engagement. You can filter for STAR ratings on the Child Care Finder website. A higher STAR rating often correlates with more structured curriculum and lower staff turnover, but it may also impact cost and availability. Visiting a center and asking how they implement their STAR standards is a great way to evaluate fit.