How part-time daycare schedules work in Philadelphia, what to ask about tuition and availability, and how to compare infant and toddler care.
Not every family needs full time daycare. Maybe you:
• Work part time or have a flexible schedule
• Work from home a few days a week
• Want your child to socialize without committing to 5 days
• Need a "break" day to run errands, work, or recharge
• Are transitioning from full time parenting to work
If this sounds like you, part time daycare in Philadelphia might be the perfect solution.
But finding quality part time care isn't always easy. Many daycares prioritize full time enrollments, and part time spots can be hard to find (especially in Fishtown, Northern Liberties, and Center City).
This guide answers all your questions:
• What is part time daycare (and how is it different from full time)?
• How much does part time daycare cost in Philadelphia? (2026 to 2027 pricing)
• What schedules are available?
• How to find the best part time daycare near you
• Pros and cons of part time vs. full time care
Let's dive in.
Part time daycare means your child attends fewer than 5 days per week. Common options include:
• 2 days per week (e.g., Tuesday and Thursday)
• 3 days per week (e.g., Monday, Wednesday, Friday)
• Half days (mornings or afternoons only)
• Drop in care (flexible, as needed scheduling)
Full Time Daycare: • 5 days per week
• Consistent daily routine
• Stronger peer relationships
• Higher cost
• Priority enrollment
Part Time Daycare: • 2 to 3 days per week
• Less continuity
• Less bonding time
• Lower cost
• Limited spots
Bottom line: Part time care offers flexibility and savings but finding a program that accepts part time enrollments can be challenging.
Part time daycare is more affordable than full time, but it's not half the price (because centers still reserve a spot for your child). Here's what to expect:
2 Days Per Week:
• 8am to 4pm: $1,725 per month
• 8am to 6pm: $2,525 per month
• 6am to 6pm (extended hours): $2,725 per month
3 Days Per Week:
• 8am to 4pm: $2,945 per month
• 8am to 6pm: $3,745 per month
• 6am to 6pm (extended hours): $3,945 per month
💡 Savings vs. Full Time:
2 days per week saves you $1,150 to $1,175 per month
3 days per week saves you $70 to $805 per month
2 Days Per Week:
• 8am to 4pm: $1,680 per month
• 8am to 6pm: $2,380 per month
• 6am to 6pm (extended hours): $2,880 per month
3 Days Per Week:
• 8am to 4pm: $2,350 per month
• 8am to 6pm: $3,000 per month
• 6am to 6pm (extended hours): $3,100 per month
💡 Savings vs. Full Time:
2 days per week saves you $1,120 to $1,220 per month
3 days per week saves you $450 to $600 per month
2 Days Per Week:
• 8am to 4pm: $1,650 per month
• 8am to 6pm: $2,150 per month
• 6am to 6pm (extended hours): $2,370 per month
3 Days Per Week:
• 8am to 4pm: $2,300 per month
• 8am to 6pm: $2,800 per month
• 6am to 6pm (extended hours): $3,020 per month
💡 Savings vs. Full Time:
2 days per week saves you $1,100 per month
3 days per week saves you $450 per month
2 Days Per Week:
• 8am to 4pm: $1,575 per month
• 8am to 6pm: $2,095 per month
• 6am to 6pm (extended hours): $2,175 per month
3 Days Per Week:
• 8am to 4pm: $2,200 per month
• 8am to 6pm: $2,720 per month
• 6am to 6pm (extended hours): $2,800 per month
💡 Savings vs. Full Time:
2 days per week saves you $1,050 per month
3 days per week saves you $425 per month
The $50 application fee and $500 registration fee are waived for enrolling families choosing full-time or part-time care.
Not all daycares offer the same part time options. Here's what to expect:
• Drop in care (pay per day; no set schedule)
• Co op childcare (parents take turns watching each other's kids)
• Nanny share (share a nanny with another family 2 to 3 days per week)
Pro tip: Ask daycares, "What part time schedules do you offer?" Some are flexible; others only offer specific days.
1. Lower Cost
You save $400 to $1,200 per month compared to full time care.
2. More Family Time
Your child stays home with you (or a family member) on non daycare days.
3. Flexibility
Perfect for parents who work part time, freelance, or have flexible schedules.
4. Socialization Without Overwhelm
Your child gets social interaction and learning without 5 full days away from home.
5. Easier Transitions
Starting part time can help ease separation anxiety for both you and your child.
1. Limited Availability
Many daycares prioritize full time enrollments. Part time spots are harder to find (especially in high demand neighborhoods like Fishtown).
2. Less Consistency
Your child may not bond as deeply with teachers and peers (compared to 5 days per week).
3. Schedule Conflicts
If your work schedule changes, you may struggle to find last minute care.
4. Not Always "Half Price"
Part time care isn't 50% of full time cost, it's usually 60 to 75% of full time pricing (because centers still hold a spot for you).
5. Developmental Gaps (for some kids)
Some children thrive with more consistency and routine (especially toddlers and preschoolers).
Part time spots fill up fast, especially in Fishtown, Northern Liberties, and Center City. Start your search 3 to 6 months before you need care.
When touring daycares, ask:
• "Do you offer part time enrollment?"
• "What part time schedules are available?"
• "Can I choose my days, or are they pre set?"
• "Is there a waitlist for part time spots?"
• "Can I switch from part time to full time (or vice versa) if my schedule changes?"
Just because you're paying less doesn't mean you should settle for less. Look for:
• Low teacher to child ratios
• Experienced, qualified teachers
• Clean, safe, organized spaces
• Engaging, age appropriate curriculum
• Open communication with parents
If you can't find part time daycare, consider:
• Nanny share (split a nanny with another family 2 to 3 days per week)
• Drop in care (pay per day; available at some centers and gyms)
• Preschool programs (many offer 2 to 3 day options)
• Family childcare (home based daycares often have more flexibility)
Verdict: Part time can work, but consistency matters.
Why: Infants bond with caregivers through repeated interactions. 2 to 3 days per week may be enough, but make sure your baby has the same teachers every time.
Verdict: Part time is great for socialization, but full time may support development better.
Why: Toddlers thrive on routine and consistency. If your child is learning potty training, language, or social skills, 5 days per week may help them progress faster.
Best for: Toddlers transitioning from home to daycare (start with 2 days, then increase to 3 to 5).
Verdict: Part time works well, especially for 3 year olds.
Why: Many preschool programs offer 2 to 3 day options. This gives kids social interaction, kindergarten prep, and structure without full time commitment.
Best for: Families who want preschool experience without full time care.
Here's a quick decision guide:
• You work part time or have a flexible schedule
• You want to save money on childcare
• Your child is adjusting to daycare for the first time
• You want family time plus socialization (not all day care)
• You can handle last minute schedule changes
• You work full time (or will soon)
• Your child thrives on routine and consistency
• You want your child to bond deeply with teachers and peers
• You need guaranteed care 5 days per week
• Your child is working on developmental milestones (potty training, language, social skills)
A: Most daycares allow switches, but it depends on availability. Ask during your tour!
A: Not always. Some centers prioritize full time families for future enrollments.
A: Yes, but it may take longer than full time. Consistency is key.
A: It depends. Some centers let you choose; others have pre set part time days.
A: Yes, but spots are limited. Start your search early!
At ENLA Learning (1942 N Front Street, Philadelphia, PA 19122), we understand that every family's needs are different. That's why we offer flexible part time schedules for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.
✅ 2 day and 3 day options available (Monday to Friday flexibility)
✅ Same high quality care whether you're part time or full time
✅ Low teacher to child ratios (1:3 for infants; 1:4 for toddlers; 1:8 for preschool)
✅ Montessori inspired curriculum (hands on learning, independence, life skills)
✅ Daily photo updates (even on part time schedules!)
✅ Flexible schedules (8am to 4pm, 8am to 6pm, or 6am to 6pm)
✅ Open door policy (visit anytime)
The $50 application fee and $500 registration fee are waived for enrolling families.
• Infant Care (6 weeks to 1 year)
• Toddler Care (1 to 3 years)
• Preschool (3 to 5 years)
🏡 Serving families in Fishtown, Northern Liberties, Old City, Queen Village, and throughout Philadelphia's premier neighborhoods.
📞 Ready to tour? Call (800)342-7674 or visit www.enlalearning.com
You don't have to choose between full time childcare and staying home. Part time daycare offers flexibility, savings, and peace of mind without sacrificing quality.
Whether you need 2 days or 3 days, look for programs that prioritize:
• Small ratios
• Experienced teachers
• Engaging curriculum
• Flexibility
• Open communication
Your family deserves care that works for you, not a one size fits all solution.
💙 Welcome to the village. We're here to help you find the perfect fit.
Internal Links:
• Best Infant Daycare in Philadelphia
• Best Toddler Daycare in Philadelphia
• Best Preschool in Philadelphia
• Daycare Centers Near Me: Philadelphia Guide
• How to Choose the Right Daycare
Premier Childcare & Daycare Center in Fishtown, Philadelphia.
1942 N Front Street Philadelphia, PA 19122