The Best Daycare Centers in Ellenville, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Ellenville. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Ellenville
Ellenville Cooperative Nursery School
Independent
Ellenville Cooperative Nursery School is a parent-run cooperative that emphasizes hands-on learning and family involvement. The school follows a play-based curriculum that fosters social, emotional, and academic development through structured activities and free play. Teachers are NYS-certified in early childhood education and maintain low student-teacher ratios to ensure individualized attention. The facility features bright, child-centered classrooms with age-appropriate learning materials and a secure outdoor play area. What sets this center apart is its cooperative model where parents actively participate in classroom activities and decision-making, creating a strong community bond and enhanced parent-teacher communication. The program focuses on school readiness with literacy, math, and social skills development in a nurturing environment.
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Kerhonkson Child Care Center
Independent
Located just 10 minutes from Ellenville, Kerhonkson Child Care Center serves the wider Ulster County region with comprehensive early childhood programs. The center implements a research-based curriculum that combines Montessori principles with New York State early learning standards. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or child development, and the staff maintains current CPR and first aid certifications. The facility features secure, age-separated classrooms, a commercial kitchen providing nutritious meals, and extensive outdoor learning environments with nature exploration areas. The center stands out for its strong emphasis on outdoor education and environmental awareness, with regular nature walks and garden projects. Safety protocols include secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks, and regular safety drills.
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Stone Ridge Early Childhood Center
Independent
Serving families throughout Ulster County including Ellenville, Stone Ridge Early Childhood Center offers a developmental approach to early education in a purpose-built facility. The curriculum blends Reggio Emilia-inspired project-based learning with structured academic preparation. Certified early childhood educators create individualized learning plans for each child, with particular strength in language development and STEM activities. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, allergy-aware meal programs, and extensive indoor gross motor spaces for year-round physical activity. What distinguishes this center is its strong focus on arts integration and cultural awareness, with regular music, movement, and multicultural programming. The center maintains excellent staff retention rates and offers flexible scheduling options to accommodate working families, along with comprehensive parent communication through digital portfolios and regular conferences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Ellenville, NY
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Ellenville, NY?
In Ellenville and the surrounding Ulster County area, full-time daycare costs can vary significantly based on the type of provider. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $225 to $325 per week for an infant or toddler. Family daycare homes, which are often smaller and home-based, may range from $175 to $250 per week. These rates are generally lower than in larger metropolitan areas like New York City but have been increasing. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly fee (e.g., meals, snacks, curriculum materials). Additionally, New York State offers a Child Care Subsidy program for eligible families, which can be accessed through the Ulster County Department of Social Services to help offset these costs.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Ellenville is properly licensed and check their inspection history?
All daycare centers and family daycare homes in New York State must be licensed or registered by the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). To verify a provider's status and review their compliance history, you can use the NYS OCFS "Child Care Facility Search" tool available online. Simply enter the provider's name or location. This public database will show you their license status, capacity, and any violations found during inspections. For local context, you can also contact the Ulster County Child Care Council for referrals and additional guidance. They can help you understand any specific reports and connect you with licensed providers in the Ellenville area.
Are there any daycare centers or preschools in Ellenville that offer extended hours for parents with non-traditional work schedules?
Finding extended-hour care in a smaller community like Ellenville can be challenging but not impossible. While most standard centers operate from approximately 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, some family daycare providers may offer more flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, or occasional weekend care. It is crucial to inquire directly with providers about their flexibility. Additionally, some employers in the region may have partnerships or resources for childcare. For reliable options, check with the Ellenville Central School District's community programs or the Resource Center for Accessible Living, which may have information on providers accommodating varied schedules. Planning ahead and joining local parent groups on social media can also yield personal recommendations.
What is the current waitlist situation for daycare centers in Ellenville, and how far in advance should I apply?
Due to limited childcare slots in smaller towns like Ellenville, waitlists are common, especially for infant care. It is strongly recommended to begin your search and put your child on waitlists at least 6 to 12 months before your needed start date. Some popular centers may have even longer waits. When contacting providers, ask directly about their waitlist policy: Is there a fee to join? How often is the list updated? Do they prioritize siblings or local residents? To maximize your options, consider applying to multiple licensed centers and registered family daycare homes in Ellenville and nearby towns like Napanoch or Kerhonkson. The Ulster County Child Care Council can provide a current list of openings and waitlist estimates.
Are there specialized childcare programs in Ellenville for children with developmental needs or disabilities?
Yes, there are resources and programs that support inclusive childcare. New York State mandates that licensed daycare providers make reasonable accommodations for children with disabilities. In Ellenville, you can seek providers who have experience or training in this area. A key local resource is the **Ulster County Department of Health's Early Intervention Program** (for children under 3) and the **Committee on Preschool Special Education** (CPSE) through the Ellenville Central School District (for children 3-5). These programs can provide evaluations, services, and help you find inclusive daycare settings. Additionally, the **Resource Center for Accessible Living (RCAL)** in nearby Kingston offers guidance and may have referrals for inclusive providers in the Ellenville area. Always discuss your child's specific needs openly with potential daycare directors to ensure they can provide a supportive environment.