The Best Daycare Centers in Dannemora, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Dannemora. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Dannemora
ABC Early Learning Center
ABC Early Learning Center
ABC Early Learning Center is a highly-regarded childcare facility located just 15 minutes from Dannemora in Plattsburgh. They offer a comprehensive educational program based on Creative Curriculum with age-appropriate developmental activities. The center features certified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development, secure entry systems, and modern classroom environments. Their program emphasizes literacy development, STEM activities, and social-emotional learning. They maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios and provide nutritious meals through their in-house food program. The facility includes both indoor and outdoor play areas designed for different age groups, with regular safety drills and health protocols.
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The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Plattsburgh serves families from Dannemora and surrounding areas with their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social development. This nationally accredited facility features state-certified teachers with bachelor's or associate degrees in early childhood education. The curriculum includes language arts, mathematics, science, and creative arts with daily progress reports for parents. Safety features include secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular facility maintenance. They offer flexible scheduling options and maintain small class sizes with low student-to-teacher ratios to ensure individualized attention.
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Mountain Lake Children's Center
Mountain Lake Children's Center
Mountain Lake Children's Center provides quality childcare services to families in the North Country region, including Dannemora residents. Their play-based learning approach incorporates elements of Montessori and Reggio Emilia philosophies, focusing on child-led exploration and discovery. The center employs experienced early childhood professionals with ongoing training in child development and safety protocols. Features include natural outdoor play spaces, organic garden activities, and technology-integrated learning stations for older children. They emphasize community involvement and cultural awareness through local field trips and family engagement events. The facility maintains strict health and safety standards with comprehensive emergency preparedness plans.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Dannemora, NY
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Dannemora, NY?
In Dannemora and the surrounding Clinton County area, full-time daycare costs can vary. For an infant (under 18 months), you can expect to pay approximately $175 to $250 per week. For toddlers (18 months to 3 years), costs are slightly lower, typically ranging from $150 to $225 per week. These rates are generally lower than in major New York metros but are influenced by the type of provider (licensed center vs. registered family daycare home) and the specific services included, such as meals or early learning curricula. It's important to note that due to the rural nature of the area, options may be limited, and some providers might have integrated pricing. We recommend contacting providers directly for the most accurate and current rates.
How can I find and verify licensed daycare providers in Dannemora?
The New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) maintains the official database of all licensed and registered childcare programs. You can use their online "Child Care Search" tool on the OCFS website, filtering by zip code (12929 for Dannemora) or town. This tool will show you licensed daycare centers and registered family daycare homes, along with their inspection history and any violations. For local verification, you can also contact the **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCRR) agency for the North Country region**, which serves Clinton County. They can provide personalized referrals and help you understand a provider's compliance with New York State regulations, including staff-to-child ratios, safety checks, and required training.
Are there long waitlists for daycare spots in Dannemora, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Given that Dannemora is a smaller community with fewer providers compared to urban centers, quality daycare spots can be limited and may have waitlists, especially for infants. It is highly advisable to begin your search **at least 6 to 9 months** before you need care, and if you are expecting, to get on lists during your second trimester. Some popular family daycare homes or the limited center-based options in nearby towns like Plattsburgh may have even longer waits. When contacting providers, always ask about their current waitlist policy, estimated timeline, and if a deposit is required to hold a spot.
What types of childcare are most commonly available in the Dannemora area?
The most prevalent options in Dannemora and its immediate vicinity are **registered family daycare homes**. These are small, home-based settings that can care for up to 6 children (or up to 8 with an assistant) and often offer a more flexible, family-like environment. There are fewer large, licensed daycare centers within the town itself; parents often look to nearby Plattsburgh for more center-based options. Additionally, **school-age childcare programs** operated by the local Saranac Central School District are available for older children. Due to the rural setting, informal care arrangements with neighbors or relatives are also common, but these are not regulated by the state unless they care for more than two children from different families for more than three hours a day.
Are there any local or state financial assistance programs to help with daycare costs in Clinton County?
Yes, eligible families in Dannemora can apply for the **New York State Child Care Subsidy Program**, which is administered locally by the Clinton County Department of Social Services (DSS). This program helps low-income families, those transitioning from public assistance, or parents in education/training programs pay for childcare. Additionally, you may qualify for the **New York State Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit** on your state income taxes. For all families, the federal **Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit** is also available. We recommend contacting the Clinton County DSS directly to determine your eligibility for subsidy programs and to get a list of approved "subsidized" providers in the area.