The Best Daycare Centers in Forest Hills, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Forest Hills. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Forest Hills
The Learning Experience - Forest Hills
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Forest Hills offers a comprehensive early education curriculum featuring their proprietary L.E.A.P. (Learning Experience Academic Program) methodology. The center focuses on academic, social, and cognitive development through structured play-based learning. Features include state-of-the-art security systems with keypad entry, live streaming for parents, and certified early childhood educators. Their curriculum includes foreign language exposure, philanthropy lessons, and technology integration. The facility includes modern classrooms, indoor play areas, and age-appropriate learning materials. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, clean environment, and strong educational foundation provided.
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Little Scholars of New York - Forest Hills
Little Scholars of New York
Little Scholars of New York in Forest Hills provides a progressive educational approach combining Montessori principles with modern early childhood education practices. The center emphasizes individualized learning plans and developmental milestones tracking. Features include low student-teacher ratios, certified early childhood educators, and a comprehensive curriculum covering literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies. The facility includes secure outdoor play spaces, modern classrooms with natural lighting, and specialized learning centers. Safety protocols include secure entry systems, regular safety drills, and health screening procedures. Parents highlight the exceptional teacher qualifications, strong parent communication, and the center's focus on social-emotional development.
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Forest Hills Montessori School
Forest Hills Montessori School
Forest Hills Montessori School offers authentic Montessori education in a nurturing environment. The school follows AMI (Association Montessori Internationale) principles with certified Montessori teachers guiding children through hands-on learning experiences. The curriculum emphasizes independence, practical life skills, and individualized academic progress. Features include beautifully prepared classrooms with Montessori materials, mixed-age groupings, and peaceful learning environments. The school maintains small class sizes with highly qualified staff holding advanced degrees in early childhood education. Safety measures include secure facility access, comprehensive background checks for staff, and strict health protocols. Parents consistently praise the school's commitment to developing confident, independent learners and the strong sense of community.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Forest Hills, NY
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Forest Hills, NY, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Forest Hills, the average cost for full-time infant or toddler daycare typically ranges from $1,800 to $2,500 per month, depending on the type of center, its amenities, and the child's age. This is generally higher than the national average, reflecting the cost of living in Queens. For financial assistance, New York State offers the Child Care Subsidy Program through the NYC Administration for Children's Services (ACS), which is income-based. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's highly recommended to apply for subsidies well in advance, as waitlists can be long. You can also inquire about Dependent Care FSAs through your employer to use pre-tax dollars for childcare expenses.
How long are typical waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Forest Hills, and when should I start my search?
For the most sought-after daycare centers and preschools in Forest Hills, waitlists can be substantial, often ranging from 6 to 18 months, especially for infant spots. It is strongly advised to begin your search and tour facilities during your pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before your desired start date. Many popular centers, particularly those affiliated with local institutions or with high-quality ratings, have application deadlines a full year in advance. To manage this, create a list of 5-7 preferred options, get on multiple waitlists (even if there's a small fee), and follow up periodically to express continued interest.
What are the key differences between a licensed group family daycare and a center-based daycare in Forest Hills, and how do I verify their licensing?
In Forest Hills, a licensed group family daycare operates in a provider's home and can care for up to 12 children (with assistants), often offering a more intimate, home-like setting with potentially mixed-age groups. A center-based daycare is a facility in a commercial or institutional space, typically caring for larger groups in age-separated classrooms with multiple staff. Both are regulated by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). To verify licensing, you can use the OCFS "Child Care Facility Search" website or ask the provider directly for their license number and inspection history. Always check for any recent violations during your research.
Are there any Forest Hills-specific resources or community groups to help parents find and vet childcare options?
Yes, several local resources can help. The **Forest Hills Moms & Dads** Facebook group is an active community where parents frequently share recommendations, openings, and reviews for local daycares and nannies. For structured support, **Queens Community House** on 108th Street often has information on early childhood programs and resources. Additionally, the **NYC Department of Health's online childcare search tool** allows you to filter by zip code (like 11375) to find licensed providers. Attending local family events at the Forest Hills Library or MacDonald Park can also be a great way to get word-of-mouth referrals from neighbors.
What should I look for during an in-person tour of a daycare center in Forest Hills to assess quality and safety?
During a tour, first verify that the current license and inspection reports are posted. Observe the caregiver-to-child ratio (NY State requires 1:4 for infants, 1:5 for toddlers) and check if staff are engaged with children at their level. Ask about staff qualifications, turnover rates, and ongoing training. Inspect the safety of the physical space: secure entrances, clean and age-appropriate toys, safe sleep practices for infants, and clearly marked emergency exits. Inquire about their sick policy, nutrition (if meals are provided), and daily communication with parents. Finally, trust your instincts on the overall warmth and organization of the environment.
Nearby Cities
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