The Best Daycare Centers in Far Rockaway, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Far Rockaway. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Far Rockaway
Jewish Community Council of the Rockaway Peninsula - Early Childhood Center
Jewish Community Council of the Rockaway Peninsula
This established community-based early childhood center offers a comprehensive developmental program focusing on social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth. The center features New York State certified teachers with specialized early childhood education training, low student-teacher ratios, and a play-based learning curriculum that incorporates Jewish values and traditions. Facilities include modern classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and nutritional meal programs. The center stands out for its strong community integration, family engagement programs, and commitment to inclusive education serving diverse families throughout the Rockaway Peninsula.
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Rockaway Beach Daycare
Independent Center
Located just minutes from Far Rockaway in neighboring Rockaway Beach, this highly-rated daycare center offers a nurturing environment with a focus on early childhood development through structured play and educational activities. The center employs certified early childhood educators who implement a curriculum emphasizing literacy, numeracy, and social skills development. Safety features include secure entry systems, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and regular safety drills. The facility features age-appropriate learning materials, outdoor play spaces, and emphasizes parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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Bright Horizons at JFK Airport
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
As part of the nationally recognized Bright Horizons network, this center serves families throughout the Queens area including Far Rockaway residents. The center implements the World at Their Fingers curriculum, which focuses on emergent learning through hands-on experiences and project-based activities. Features include highly qualified teachers with bachelor's degrees in early childhood education, advanced security systems, and state-of-the-art learning environments. The center offers flexible scheduling options, nutritious meals prepared on-site, and comprehensive developmental assessments. While located at JFK Airport, it serves both airport employees and community families with transportation options available.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Far Rockaway, NY
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Far Rockaway, NY?
In Far Rockaway, the cost of full-time daycare varies significantly based on the type of provider. A licensed family daycare home typically ranges from $225 to $350 per week for infants and toddlers. Center-based daycare programs are generally more expensive, averaging between $300 and $450 per week. These costs are often lower than in more central parts of New York City, but they still represent a major household expense. It's important to note that New York State offers subsidy programs like the Child Care Subsidy through the NYC Administration for Children's Services (ACS) for eligible families, which can greatly reduce out-of-pocket costs. Always inquire directly with providers about their specific rates and any available sibling discounts.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Far Rockaway is properly licensed and has a good safety record?
All licensed daycare providers in New York State are regulated by the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). You can and should use the OCFS "Child Care Facility Search" website to look up any center or family daycare home. This public database shows the provider's license status, capacity, and any serious violations or enforcement actions from the past few years. For a more localized view, you can also contact the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, which inspects center-based programs. Additionally, ask the provider for references from current parents and visit the facility in person to observe cleanliness, safety protocols (like secured exits and outlet covers), and staff-child interactions.
Are there any daycare centers or programs in Far Rockaway that offer extended hours for parents with non-traditional work schedules?
Yes, there are options, though they may require some searching. Several centers and family daycare providers in Far Rockaway recognize the community's needs, including parents working in healthcare, hospitality, or shift work. Some providers offer early drop-off (as early as 6:30 AM) or late pick-up (until 7:00 PM). A notable resource is the "Head Start" and "Early Head Start" programs, which sometimes offer extended day components. The best approach is to be upfront about your schedule needs when calling providers. You can also search on the NYC Child Care Connect website and filter for programs that list "Non-Traditional Hours" as a service option.
What is the current waitlist situation for infant daycare spots in Far Rockaway, and how far in advance should I apply?
Waitlists for infant care (children under 2 years old) in Far Rockaway can be lengthy, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for highly-regarded centers or home-based providers with limited capacity. It is strongly recommended to begin your search and put your name on waitlists as soon as you know you will need care, ideally during pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before your desired start date. When contacting providers, ask specific questions: their current waitlist length, if there's a fee to be on the list, how often they update families, and if they offer priority for siblings or local residents. Exploring multiple options, including both centers and licensed family daycares, increases your chances of securing a spot.
What types of financial assistance or subsidized childcare programs are available to Far Rockaway residents?
Far Rockaway families have access to several key financial assistance programs. The primary subsidy is the NYC Child Care Subsidy, administered by ACS, which helps low-income working families, those in job training, or receiving protective services. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care. Additionally, New York State's "Child Care Assistance Program" (CCAP) provides subsidies. For early education specifically, federally funded "Early Head Start" and "Head Start" programs in the area offer free, comprehensive early childhood services to income-eligible families. You can apply for subsidies through the NYC ACCESS HRA website or by calling 311. Local community organizations, like the Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center or the Rockaway Development & Revitalization Corporation, may also offer guidance and referrals.