The Best Daycare Centers in Yatesboro, PA
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Yatesboro. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Yatesboro
Kittanning KinderCare
KinderCare Education
Kittanning KinderCare provides a comprehensive early childhood education program with a balanced learning approach that blends teacher-directed and child-initiated activities. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development through play-based learning. All lead teachers hold early childhood education credentials, and the center maintains low student-teacher ratios for personalized attention. Safety is prioritized with secure entry systems, regular safety drills, and thorough background checks for all staff. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play areas, and nutritional meal programs. Parents appreciate the consistent communication through daily reports and parent-teacher conferences, making it a trusted choice in Armstrong County.
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The Goddard School of Indiana
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Indiana offers a premium early childhood education experience through their proprietary F.L.EX.® Learning Program, which emphasizes play-based learning with structured STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) activities. The school maintains exceptionally low student-teacher ratios and employs degreed educators with specialized training in child development. Safety protocols include keypad entry, video monitoring, and rigorous cleanliness standards. The modern facility features dedicated learning centers, indoor gyms, and secure outdoor playgrounds. Parents consistently praise the school's strong communication, individualized learning plans, and focus on whole-child development, making it a top-rated option serving the Yatesboro area.
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The Learning Lamp
The Learning Lamp
The Learning Lamp is a non-profit organization providing high-quality, affordable childcare with a strong emphasis on educational readiness and inclusive programming. Their research-based curriculum incorporates Pennsylvania Early Learning Standards and focuses on literacy, numeracy, and social skills through hands-on activities. The center employs qualified teachers with backgrounds in early childhood education and offers professional development opportunities. Safety measures include secured facilities, health screenings, and nut-free environments. The program is noted for its sliding scale fees, diverse student body, and strong community partnerships. Parents value the center's commitment to accessibility, transparent communication, and comprehensive support for children's developmental milestones.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Yatesboro, PA
What are the main types of licensed childcare options available for families in Yatesboro, PA?
In Yatesboro and the surrounding Armstrong County area, parents typically have access to three main types of licensed childcare. These include: 1) **Licensed Child Care Centers**, which are larger facilities often located in commercial buildings (like the ones you might find in nearby Kittanning or Ford City). 2) **Licensed Group Child Care Homes**, which care for 7-12 children in a residential setting. 3) **Licensed Family Child Care Homes**, which care for 4-6 children in the provider's home, offering a more intimate setting. Due to Yatesboro's small, rural nature, Family Child Care Homes are often the most prevalent local option, though many families also commute to larger centers in neighboring towns. All providers must be licensed and inspected by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL).
How can I check the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Yatesboro?
Pennsylvania provides a transparent public tool called **"COMPASS Child Care Search"** to help parents in Yatesboro. You can visit the Pennsylvania DHS website and use this search tool to find licensed providers by zip code (16265 for Yatesboro) or county (Armstrong). For each listed provider, you can view their license status, capacity, ages served, and most importantly, their **inspection reports**. These reports detail any compliance issues, violations, or corrective actions. It's highly recommended to review these reports thoroughly and even contact the provider to discuss any noted violations. You can also call the OCDEL's regional office for Western PA for additional verification.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in the Yatesboro area?
Childcare costs in rural Armstrong County, including the Yatesboro area, are generally lower than in Pennsylvania's major metropolitan areas, but can still be a significant expense for families. For a licensed Family Child Care Home, you might expect to pay between **$150 - $225 per week** for full-time infant care. A larger Child Care Center in a nearby town like Kittanning may range from **$175 - $275 per week**. Toddler care is typically slightly less expensive. It's important to note that these are estimates, and rates vary based on the program's hours, meal inclusion, and curriculum. Many providers in the area may have limited infant slots due to stricter staff-to-child ratios, which can affect both cost and availability.
Are there any state subsidy or financial assistance programs available to help with childcare costs in Yatesboro?
Yes, Pennsylvania's **Child Care Works (CCW) subsidy program** is available to eligible families in Yatesboro. This program helps low-income working families, those in training/education programs, or families in certain protective services pay for licensed childcare. Eligibility is based on family size, income, and reason for care. You apply through the Armstrong County Assistance Office. Given the rural economy, many local families may qualify. Additionally, you can inquire with individual providers about any private scholarships or sliding scale fees they might offer. The **United Way of Pennsylvania's 2-1-1 service** is also a great resource for connecting with local assistance programs.
Given Yatesboro's size, how long are typical waitlists for daycare, and what should I do to secure a spot?
Due to the limited number of providers in a small community like Yatesboro, waitlists can be common, especially for infant care and highly regarded Family Child Care Homes. It is not unusual for a waitlist to be **3 to 9 months long**. To secure a spot, parents are advised to: 1) **Start searching during pregnancy**, if possible. 2) **Contact multiple providers** not just in Yatesboro, but in surrounding communities like Rural Valley, Cowansville, and Kittanning. 3) **Visit and get on multiple waitlists**, even if there's a small fee. 4) **Maintain communication** with providers every few months to show continued interest. Being flexible with your start date can also improve your chances of finding an opening sooner.