The Best Daycare Centers in Washington Boro, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Washington Boro. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Washington Boro
Bright Horizons at Lancaster
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Lancaster is a nationally accredited childcare center offering a comprehensive educational curriculum focused on school readiness. Their World at Their Fingers curriculum emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education degrees, low student-to-teacher ratios, and secure facilities with controlled access. They provide nutritious meals and snacks, extensive outdoor play areas, and regular parent communication through their Family Space app. The center serves families throughout Lancaster County, including Washington Boro residents.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Lancaster
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Lancaster offers a play-based learning approach through their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience), which balances academic preparation with social development. The center features state-certified teachers, secure keypad entry systems, and comprehensive safety protocols. Their curriculum includes STEAM learning, foreign language exposure, and character development. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, indoor gyms, and dedicated learning centers. Parents appreciate the regular progress updates, flexible scheduling options, and the center's commitment to individualized attention for each child.
Daycare Services:
Mountville Early Learning Center
Mountville Early Learning Center
Mountville Early Learning Center is a locally owned and operated childcare facility serving families in Lancaster County, including Washington Boro. Their research-based curriculum focuses on developmental milestones and school readiness through hands-on learning experiences. The center maintains small class sizes with qualified early childhood educators, comprehensive security systems, and nutritious meal programs. They offer extended hours to accommodate working families and provide regular parent-teacher conferences. The facility features modern classrooms, safe outdoor play spaces, and specialized learning areas for different age groups, creating a nurturing environment for children's growth and development.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Washington Boro, PA
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Washington Boro, PA, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Washington Boro, Pennsylvania, all childcare facilities serving more than three 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 daycare homes, and childcare centers. Licensed providers must meet strict standards for staff-to-child ratios, safety inspections, background checks, health and safety training, and curriculum. To verify a provider's license and compliance history, you can use the **Pennsylvania DHS Child Care Finder** tool online. You can search by provider name or zip code (17582 for Washington Boro) to see their license status, any recent inspections, and regulatory reports. It's highly recommended to choose a licensed provider to ensure state-mandated protections are in place.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in the Washington Boro area?
The cost of daycare in the Washington Boro and greater Lancaster County area varies by the child's age and the type of facility. For a licensed childcare center, full-time infant care typically ranges from **$1,100 to $1,400 per month**. Toddler care (ages 1-3) is slightly less, often between **$950 and $1,250 per month**. In-home family daycare is generally more affordable, averaging **$800 to $1,100 per month**. These costs are influenced by factors like program hours, included meals, and curriculum. It's important to note that Pennsylvania offers subsidy programs for eligible families through the Child Care Works program. You can contact the Lancaster County Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) for information on financial assistance and local market rates.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Washington Boro, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Yes, due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, many quality daycare centers and licensed home providers in the Washington Boro and surrounding communities have significant waitlists. It is not uncommon for waitlists to be **6 to 12 months long** for infant rooms. To secure a spot, parents are advised to **begin their search and get on waitlists during early pregnancy, or as soon as possible**. When touring facilities, always ask about their specific waitlist process, any fees to join, and how often they update families on their position. Exploring multiple options, including providers in nearby towns like Columbia, Mountville, or Lancaster, can increase your chances of finding an opening sooner.
What types of childcare options are most commonly available in Washington Boro, PA?
Washington Boro, being a smaller borough, has a mix of childcare options, though the selection is more limited than in larger cities. The most common types are: 1. **Licensed Family Childcare Homes:** Often run out of a provider's residence, offering a smaller, home-like setting. 2. **Childcare Centers:** There are a few centers located within a short driving distance, often affiliated with churches or private organizations. 3. **Pre-K Counts and Head Start Programs:** For eligible 3-5 year-olds, these state and federally funded programs provide free, high-quality preschool. The local school district, Penn Manor, can provide referral information. 4. **Part-Day Nursery Schools:** Common for preschool-aged children, typically offering programs a few mornings or afternoons per week. Many families also look to neighboring areas like Columbia or Lancaster for a wider variety of center-based options.
How does the local school district, Penn Manor, interact with daycare providers, and are there before/after-school care programs for school-age children?
The Penn Manor School District, which serves Washington Boro, does not directly operate daycare centers but does provide information and referrals. For school-age children, the district typically offers or partners with **before and after-school care programs** at or near the elementary schools (such as Central Manor or Letort). These "Latchkey" programs provide care from around 7:00 AM until school starts and from dismissal until 6:00 PM. Availability can be limited. It's crucial to contact the specific elementary school your child will attend or the district administration office early to inquire about registration, costs, and waitlists. Many local daycare centers also offer school-age transportation and care, picking up from district schools.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Washington Boro: