New Report: Employing and Engaging Families with Young Children, 2024

How to Find Quality Child Care Guide

Your road map to connecting with quality child care providers and resources in Pennsylvania 

Navigating the child care landscape can be overwhelming, but we're here to simplify the process for you. Our guide provides a road map to accessing essential resources that ensure your child receives the best care possible. 

Discover child care options with COMPASS, where you can explore a diverse range of providers and learning programs. The Raise Your Star website connects you to Early Learning Resource Centers (ELRCs), offering invaluable support and guidance.  211 connects you with a wealth of community services and resources. Our fact sheet serves as a concise reference which assists you in finding, choosing, and affording child care. And with PA Navigate, a statewide community information tool, connecting with social care services has never been easier. 

 

COMPASS Provider Search

COMPASS helps you search for child care and other early learning providers throughout Pennsylvania. Search by zip code, provider name, children’s ages, programs, and more. Discover Child Care, Early Intervention, PA Pre-K Counts, Pre-Kindergarten, and others. View details including certifications, Keystone STARS, and languages.

Early Learning Resource Centers (ELRC) By County

The Raise Your Star website enables you to find local ELRCs, which provide a single-point-of-contact for families to get information and access services that support quality child care and early learning programs. ELRCs help families find the best early childhood education program for their children. 

2-1-1 Referral Services

211 provides free assistance to help you find  child care centers across the state. Search by zip code or city and view contact information and websites for quality child care centers near you. Find your local 211, and get started by calling or visiting the website.  

How to Find Quality Child Care Fact Sheet

Discovering high-quality child care for your young ones can be less daunting when you know what to prioritize. Quality classrooms offer organized, accessible materials and diverse play opportunities. Seek out play-based curriculums and strong family engagement. Recognize quality with designations like Pennsylvania Keystone STARS ratings and national accreditations. Explore resources like COMPASS and Early Learning Resource Centers to find suitable programs, and learn about financial assistance options and qualifying for programs like Pre-K Counts and Child Care Works. 

PA Navigate

PA Navigate is a statewide community information tool designed to address health and social care needs for individuals in Pennsylvania by connecting them to community services. Get assistance for finding and paying for child care. Search through filters, income eligibility, age group, and more.