The Best Daycare Centers in Bellmore, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Bellmore. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Bellmore
The Learning Experience - Bellmore
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Bellmore offers a comprehensive early education curriculum focusing on academic, social, and emotional development. Their proprietary L.E.A.P. curriculum includes specialized programs in literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, including keypad entry and surveillance cameras. Certified teachers implement age-appropriate learning activities with low student-teacher ratios. The facility includes modern classrooms, indoor play areas, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Parents appreciate the regular communication through their mobile app and the focus on character development through their philanthropy-based curriculum.
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The Goddard School of Bellmore
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Bellmore provides a play-based learning environment grounded in current childhood development research. Their F.L.EX.® program encourages flexible learning experiences that adapt to each child's interests and abilities. The school features highly qualified teachers with degrees in early childhood education and ongoing professional development. Safety protocols include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills. The curriculum emphasizes STEAM learning, language development, and social skills through hands-on activities. The facility includes age-specific playgrounds, art studios, and technology-enhanced learning spaces with parent communication through daily reports and photos.
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Kiddie Academy of Bellmore
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Bellmore implements their Life Essentials® curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. The program focuses on project-based learning, literacy development, and social-emotional skills through structured and unstructured play. The center maintains enhanced safety measures including secured entry, comprehensive health protocols, and emergency preparedness training. Certified teachers create individualized learning plans and provide regular progress updates to parents. The facility features developmentally appropriate learning centers, outdoor play spaces, and technology integration. Their nutrition program provides healthy meals and snacks, and they offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate working families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Bellmore, NY
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Bellmore, NY, and what factors influence the price?
In Bellmore, NY, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $1,600 to $2,200 per month, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging $1,400 to $1,900 per month. Preschool programs for 3-5 year-olds often cost between $1,200 and $1,700 monthly. These costs are influenced by several local factors: the type of facility (a licensed in-home daycare is often less expensive than a larger center), the staff-to-child ratio and qualifications of educators, the inclusion of extras like meals, enrichment programs (e.g., music, yoga), and the hours of operation. Centers in Bellmore with extended hours or those affiliated with educational philosophies like Montessori often command higher rates. It's also important to note that prices on Long Island, including Bellmore, are generally higher than the national average due to the region's cost of living.
How do I verify that a daycare provider in Bellmore is properly licensed and what are New York State's key regulations?
All daycare centers and group family daycares in Bellmore must be licensed or registered by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). You can verify a provider's status and view any inspection reports by using the OCFS "Child Care Facility Search" tool online. Key state regulations for centers include strict staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants under 18 months, 1:5 for toddlers) and mandatory background checks for all employees. Providers must also meet health, safety, and training requirements, including CPR/first aid certification. For smaller, registered family daycares (caring for up to 6 children in a home), they are also subject to inspections and regulations. Always ask to see a provider's license during your tour and check for any violations on the state website.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Bellmore, and when should I start my search?
Yes, waitlists are very common for reputable daycare centers and preschools in Bellmore, especially for infant and toddler programs. Due to high demand and limited slots, it is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin their search during the second trimester of pregnancy. For preschool programs targeting a September start, inquiries and tours should begin at least 9-12 months in advance, as many centers have application deadlines in the winter or early spring of the prior year. When contacting providers, ask directly about their waitlist policy, including any deposit requirements, estimated timeline, and how often you should check in. Exploring a mix of centers and licensed family daycares can increase your options.
What are some of the popular types of childcare programs available specifically in the Bellmore community?
Bellmore offers a diverse range of childcare options to suit different family needs. These include traditional daycare centers, many of which offer preschool curricula; licensed family daycares operated in private homes, which can provide a more intimate setting; and part-time nursery school or Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) programs for 4-year-olds, which may be free through the Bellmore School District or local private providers. Additionally, several centers incorporate specialized educational approaches like Montessori, Reggio Emilia, or play-based learning. The community also has options for before-and-after-school care for school-age children, often hosted at local elementary schools or community centers like the Bellmore Memorial Library or the Bellmore Playhouse, which offer enrichment programs.
Are there any local resources or organizations in Bellmore that help parents find and evaluate childcare options?
Absolutely. A primary resource is the Child Care Council of Nassau, which serves Bellmore and all of Nassau County. They offer a free referral service to help parents find licensed and registered providers that match their specific needs, including location, hours, and child's age. They also provide guidance on what to look for during a visit and understanding state subsidies. Locally, the Bellmore Moms (and Dads) Facebook groups are invaluable for getting personal recommendations and experiences from other parents in the area. Furthermore, the Bellmore School District website and community bulletins often list approved UPK providers and after-school programs. For hands-on evaluation, attending local community events or visiting parks like Newbridge Road Park can be a great way to meet other parents and gather informal advice.