The Best Daycare Centers in Farmingdale, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Farmingdale. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Farmingdale
The Learning Experience - Farmingdale
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Farmingdale offers a comprehensive early education curriculum with proprietary programs including L.E.A.P. (Learning Experience Academic Program) and philanthropy curriculum. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry, security cameras, and strict pick-up protocols. Highly qualified teachers implement age-appropriate learning activities with low student-teacher ratios. The facility includes multiple age-specific classrooms, indoor play areas, and outdoor playgrounds. Special programs include music, yoga, and Spanish language exposure. Parents praise the consistent communication through daily reports and the center's focus on both academic and social-emotional development.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Academy of Farmingdale
Kiddie Academy
Kiddie Academy of Farmingdale provides educational childcare with their Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, and STEM concepts. The center maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios with degreed lead teachers and ongoing professional development. Safety features include secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks for all staff, and regular safety drills. The facility offers modern classrooms, age-appropriate learning materials, and secure outdoor play spaces. The academy emphasizes nutrition with well-balanced meals and snacks included in tuition. Parents consistently highlight the warm, nurturing environment and the center's effective communication through their mobile app.
Daycare Services:
Bright Horizons at Bethpage
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Bethpage serves the Farmingdale community with their World at Their Fingers® curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning and developmentally appropriate practices. The center employs highly qualified educators, many with advanced degrees in early childhood education. The facility features purpose-built classrooms, multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups, and enhanced security systems. Their emergent curriculum follows children's interests while ensuring key developmental milestones are met. The center offers enrichment programs including music, movement, and literacy activities. Parents appreciate the strong emphasis on social-emotional learning and the center's commitment to creating inclusive, diverse learning environments.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Farmingdale, NY
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Farmingdale, NY?
In Farmingdale, the average cost for full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $1,600 to $2,200 per month. For toddlers, you can expect to pay slightly less, generally between $1,400 and $1,900 per month. These rates are influenced by factors such as the type of facility (home-based vs. center-based), the staff-to-child ratio, the inclusion of meals and educational curricula, and the specific program's amenities. Costs in Farmingdale are generally reflective of Nassau County averages, which are among the highest in New York State outside of Manhattan. It's advisable to inquire about what is included in the tuition, such as diapers, wipes, and formula, as these can add significant out-of-pocket expenses if not provided.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Farmingdale, and when should I start looking?
Waitlists for highly-regarded daycare centers and preschools in Farmingdale can be substantial, often ranging from 6 to 18 months, especially for infant spots. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin their research and place their names on waitlists during the first or second trimester of pregnancy. For toddler or preschool-age enrollment, starting your search 9-12 months in advance is prudent. The high demand is due to Farmingdale's family-oriented community and the limited number of slots available per licensed facility. When touring, always ask for a clear, written explanation of the waitlist policy, including any non-refundable deposit required to hold a spot.
What are the key differences between a NYS-licensed group family daycare home and a child daycare center in Farmingdale?
In Farmingdale, you'll find both options, governed by New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) regulations. A **group family daycare home** is operated in a provider's residence for 7-12 children, with assistants. They often offer a more home-like, flexible environment with mixed-age groups and may have more variable hours. A **child daycare center** is a facility in a commercial or institutional setting licensed for 13 or more children. Centers usually have a more structured educational curriculum, multiple classrooms separated by age, and larger staff teams. Both are subject to health, safety, and background check requirements, but centers often have more extensive physical resources. Your choice may depend on whether you prefer a smaller, familial setting or a more institutionalized program with greater resources.
Are there any local Farmingdale resources or programs to help parents afford childcare?
Yes, there are several resources. First, the **Nassau County Department of Social Services (DSS)** administers the New York State Child Care Subsidy Program for eligible families based on income and need. Additionally, many Farmingdale daycare centers accept payments from the **Child Care Block Grant**. You can also explore dependent care flexible spending accounts (FSAs) through your employer, which use pre-tax dollars. Locally, some centers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees. It's also worth checking with local organizations like the Farmingdale Public Library or the Farmingdale-Bethpage Historical Society for potential community-based parenting resources or referrals to affordable options.
What should I look for during a daycare tour specific to health, safety, and licensing in Farmingdale?
During a tour in Farmingdale, go beyond the basics. First, verify the facility's **current OCFS license** is visibly posted and check for any past violations on the OCFS website. Ask about staff qualifications, including required training in CPR, First Aid, and Safe Sleep practices for infants. Observe the security measures: Is there a secured entry system? How are children released at pickup? Inspect the cleanliness of diapering and food preparation areas. For outdoor play, ensure the equipment is age-appropriate and well-maintained on a safe surface. Given Farmingdale's suburban setting, ask about their protocols for emergencies, including shelter-in-place and evacuation plans. A quality center will be transparent and eager to discuss all these points.