The Best Daycare Centers in Au Sable Forks, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Au Sable Forks. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Au Sable Forks
Adirondack Community Day Care Center
Adirondack Community Day Care Center
Adirondack Community Day Care Center is a NAEYC-accredited facility serving the Au Sable Forks region with comprehensive early childhood education programs. They feature a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios with all lead teachers holding degrees in early childhood education or related fields. Their facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor playgrounds, and nutritional meal programs. What sets them apart is their strong community integration and family engagement programs, along with their commitment to inclusive education for children of all abilities.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Plattsburgh
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School offers a nationally-recognized F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic preparation with social development. Their state-licensed teachers implement structured lesson plans focusing on literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts. The facility features secure keypad entry, live-streaming classroom cameras for parent viewing, and modern learning environments with interactive technology. Their comprehensive safety protocols include strict health screening procedures and emergency preparedness training. The school stands out for its advanced security systems and robust enrichment programs including yoga, foreign language exposure, and music education.
Daycare Services:
Rainbow Day Care Center
Rainbow Day Care Center
Rainbow Day Care Center provides a nurturing environment with a curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning and developmental appropriateness. Their educational approach combines Montessori-inspired activities with traditional early childhood education methods, focusing on building independence and critical thinking skills. The center features certified early childhood educators with an average of 8+ years experience, and maintains excellent staff retention rates. Their facility includes dedicated infant rooms, spacious preschool classrooms, and large outdoor play areas with natural elements. They distinguish themselves through their strong focus on outdoor education and nature-based learning activities that take advantage of the Adirondack region's natural environment.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Au Sable Forks, NY
What are the main types of licensed childcare available in and around Au Sable Forks, NY?
In Au Sable Forks and the surrounding Essex County area, parents typically have access to three main types of licensed childcare options. These include licensed family daycare homes, which are smaller, home-based settings often caring for up to 6-8 children, and are common in more rural communities like ours. There are also group family daycare homes, which can care for more children with an assistant. Finally, there are childcare centers, though these are less common directly in Au Sable Forks and may require travel to nearby towns like Plattsburgh or Lake Placid. All providers must be licensed and registered with the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), which ensures they meet health, safety, and staff training standards. Given our rural location, family daycare homes are often the most accessible and available option locally.
How can I find and verify licensed childcare providers in Au Sable Forks?
The most reliable resource is the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) website, which hosts a searchable public database of all licensed and registered providers. You can search by zip code (12912 for Au Sable Forks) or town. Additionally, the local Child Care Resource and Referral (CCRR) agency for our region, which is run through the Adirondack Community Action Programs (ACAP), can provide personalized referrals and information about availability. It's crucial to verify a provider's license status, review their inspection history for any violations, and schedule an in-person visit. Given the tight-knit nature of our community, local Facebook groups and word-of-mouth recommendations from other parents at the Au Sable Forks Free Library or community events can also be valuable starting points.
What is the typical cost of daycare in Au Sable Forks, and is financial assistance available?
Childcare costs in Au Sable Forks and rural Essex County are generally lower than in major New York metros but can still be a significant portion of a family's budget. For a licensed family daycare home, you might expect to pay between $150-$225 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. Rates for preschool-aged children may be slightly lower. Financial assistance is primarily available through the New York State Child Care Subsidy Program, administered locally by the Essex County Department of Social Services. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (e.g., work, training). Additionally, some providers may offer sliding scale fees. It's important to apply for subsidies early, as processing can take time.
Are there long waitlists for childcare in Au Sable Forks, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, due to the limited number of providers in our small, rural community, waitlists are common and can be lengthy, especially for infant care. It is strongly recommended that parents begin their search at least 6 to 9 months before they need care, and even earlier if possible. Many family daycare homes have very small capacity, sometimes only one or two openings for an infant at a time. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current waitlist length and policy. Being flexible with your start date can help. Exploring options in neighboring communities like Jay, Wilmington, or Keene may also be necessary if local waitlists are prohibitive.
What local factors should I consider when choosing a daycare in a rural area like Au Sable Forks?
Choosing daycare in a rural setting involves specific considerations. First, inquire about the provider's emergency plans and protocols for severe Adirondack weather (e.g., snowstorms, flooding) that could affect pick-up, drop-off, or even necessitate closure. Ask about their transportation policies if your child will need to be driven to a preschool program or activity. Given our location, many providers incorporate outdoor play and nature-based learning; ask about their outdoor space and daily routine. Also, consider the travel distance and road conditions, especially in winter. Finally, check if the provider participates in the federal Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), which ensures nutritional meals and snacks, a valuable benefit in an area with fewer immediate food options.