Frequently Asked Questions

Everything You Need to Know About Norwood Academy

Choosing the right childcare center for your child is a big decision — and we want to make it as easy as possible. Below you'll find answers to the questions we hear most from parents in Norwood, Prospect Park, Ridley Park, Sharon Hill, Folsom, Glenolden, Darby, and surrounding communities.

Can't find what you're looking for? 610-300-8889 or hello@norwoodacademy.net and we'll be happy to help.

📋 ENROLLMENT & ADMISSIONS

What age groups does Norwood Academy serve?

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Norwood Academy welcomes children from ages 6 weeks to 12 years old across our Infant, Toddler, and Preschool programs. We also offer Before & After School Care for school-age children up to 12 years old.

How do I enroll my child at Norwood Academy?

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Enrollment is simple. Start by scheduling a tour so you can see our classrooms and meet our team. Once you're ready to move forward, we'll send you an invitation to complete all enrollment paperwork digitally through Brightwheel, our childcare management platform. Visit our [Enrollment page] for the full step-by-step process.

Is there a waitlist?

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We have limited spots available across all age groups, and spaces fill quickly — especially for our infant program. We recommend reaching out as early as possible to check current availability. Contact us at 610-300-8889 or hello@norwoodacademy.net.

Is there an enrollment deadline?

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There is no set enrollment deadline — you're welcome to enroll at any time throughout the year, subject to availability.

What documents do I need to enroll?

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You will need to provide your child's up-to-date immunization records, medical and allergy information, and emergency contact details. All forms are completed digitally through Brightwheel once your spot is confirmed.

Do you accept children with special needs or developmental delays?

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We are committed to inclusive, supportive care. Please contact us directly to discuss your child's specific needs so we can ensure our program is the right fit and make any necessary accommodations.

🕐 HOURS & SCHEDULE

What are Norwood Academy's operating hours?

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We are open Monday through Friday, 6:30 AM to 7:00 PM. We are closed on major federal holidays.

Do you offer early drop-off or extended care?

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Yes. We offer Before Care starting at 6:30 AM and After Care until 7:00 PM, giving working parents flexibility throughout the day.

Are you open on school holidays and snow days?

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We follow our own independent schedule and remain open on most public school holidays and delay days. Closures for major holidays and any emergency closures will be communicated to families in advance through Brightwheel.

How much notice do you give for closures or schedule changes?

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We notify families of any planned closures or schedule changes as early as possible through Brightwheel notifications and email. Emergency closures (e.g. severe weather) are communicated the same morning.

📚 PROGRAMS & CURRICULUM

What kind of curriculum does Norwood Academy follow?

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Our curriculum is Montessori-inspired, meaning we draw on the core principles of the Montessori philosophy — child-led learning, hands-on exploration, and individualized pacing — while adapting them to meet Pennsylvania early learning standards. Learn more on our [Montessori-Inspired Program] page.

What does "Montessori-inspired" mean? Are you a certified Montessori school?

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Norwood Academy is a Montessori-inspired center, meaning our approach is rooted in Montessori principles and our educators are trained in the Montessori method. We are not a fully certified AMI/AMS Montessori school, but we are deeply committed to the philosophy and apply it meaningfully across all of our programs.

What does a typical day look like at Norwood Academy?

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Each age group has its own daily routine, but all programs include a balance of structured activities, free exploration, outdoor play, meals, and rest. Daily schedules are shared with families at enrollment and updated as needed through Brightwheel.

What subjects and activities are covered?

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Our Montessori-inspired curriculum covers five key areas: Practical Life, Language, Mathematics, Sensorial development, and Culture & Geography. Children also participate in music, movement, arts and crafts, nature walks, and seasonal educational activities. For children aged 5–12 in our After School program, we also use Study Island — an online platform for additional practice in math, science, and English.

How do you track and communicate my child's progress?

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We provide two formal progress reports per year, along with ongoing real-time updates through Brightwheel — including daily activity logs, photos, feeding and nap records, and milestone moments. Our teachers are also always available for informal check-ins at drop-off, pickup, or via message.

🔒 SAFETY & LICENSING

Is Norwood Academy licensed by the state of Pennsylvania?

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Yes. Norwood Academy is fully licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) in accordance with all state childcare regulations. PA Daycare License Certification ID: CER-00219391

How do you ensure the safety of children at the facility?

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Safety is our top priority. Our facility includes secure entry points, supervised indoor and outdoor areas, and security cameras throughout. All staff undergo thorough background checks including PA Child Abuse History Clearance, FBI Clearance, and Criminal Background Check before working with children.

Are your staff trained and certified?

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All of our educators have backgrounds in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. Our lead teachers are trained in the Montessori method. Staff are also trained in first aid and CPR.

What is your child-to-staff ratio?

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We maintain low child-to-staff ratios in compliance with Pennsylvania DHS requirements — and in our infant room, we go above and beyond the minimum to ensure every baby receives individualized attention. Specific ratios are available upon request.

What happens if my child is sick or has a medical emergency?

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We have clear protocols for illness and medical emergencies. If your child becomes unwell during the day, you will be notified immediately via Brightwheel and phone. In the case of a medical emergency, we will contact emergency services and you simultaneously. We ask that children with fevers, contagious illness, or symptoms that may affect other children remain home until they have recovered.

💰 FEES & SUBSIDIES

How much does Norwood Academy cost?

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Tuition varies by program and age group. Please contact us directly for current rates at 610-300-8889 or hello@norwoodacademy.net. We're happy to walk you through all available options.

What is included in the tuition fee?

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Tuition covers your child's full program, daily activities, Montessori-inspired curriculum, and Brightwheel communications. Meals and snacks are [INSERT — included / not included]. An enrollment fee is due upon registration to secure your child's spot.

Do you accept subsidy programs such as CCIS?

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[INSERT — confirm with management whether Norwood Academy participates in the Child Care Information Services (CCIS) subsidy program in Delaware County.] If you are interested in applying for subsidized childcare assistance, we encourage you to contact Delaware County CCIS directly to determine your eligibility. We are happy to assist families through this process.

Are there sibling discounts or other financial assistance options?

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Please contact us directly to discuss any available discounts or financial assistance options. We are committed to making quality childcare accessible to as many Norwood and Delaware County families as possible.

What is your payment schedule?

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Tuition is due [INSERT — weekly/bi-weekly/monthly]. Payments are processed through Brightwheel for convenience. Please contact us for details on accepted payment methods.

🚗 DROP-OFF & PICK-UP

What are your drop-off and pick-up procedures?

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Drop-off and pick-up take place at our main entrance. All arrivals and departures are logged securely through Brightwheel, giving you a real-time record of when your child was signed in and out. Our staff will be on hand to greet your child at drop-off and ensure a smooth transition.

Who is authorized to pick up my child?

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Only adults listed as authorized pickup persons on your child's enrollment form may pick up your child. You can update your authorized pickup list at any time through Brightwheel. A valid photo ID will be requested from anyone unfamiliar to our staff.

What happens if I am late for pick-up?

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We understand that unexpected delays happen. If you are running late, please notify us as soon as possible by phone. A late pickup fee may apply after 7PM. Repeated late pickups will be addressed with families individually.

Can I drop in to visit my child during the day?

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We welcome and encourage parent involvement. If you'd like to visit during the day, we ask that you give us a heads-up so we can make sure the timing works with your child's routine and classroom activities. All visitors must sign in at the front desk.

❓ GENERAL QUESTIONS

Is Norwood Academy a new location? How long has it been open?

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Yes — Norwood Academy is a newly opened center, part of the same family as Collingdale Academy, which has been serving Delaware County families for years. The same trusted administrators and educators are behind both locations, so parents can feel confident in the same high standards of care and education they've come to expect.

Do you serve families outside of Norwood, PA?

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Absolutely. We warmly welcome families from Norwood and surrounding communities including Prospect Park, Ridley Park, Sharon Hill, Folsom, Glenolden, Darby, Aldan, Lansdowne, Upper Darby, and beyond.

How can I schedule a tour?

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Simply click the [Schedule a Tour] button anywhere on our site to book a free visit at a time that works for you. We'd love to show you around and answer any questions in person.