The Best Daycare Centers in Fort Edward, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Fort Edward. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Fort Edward
Kiddie Academy of Glens Falls
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Glens Falls provides comprehensive educational childcare with their proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and social-emotional learning. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and comprehensive monitoring. All teachers are CPR and First Aid certified with ongoing professional development. The facility includes age-appropriate classrooms, indoor gymnasium, and secure outdoor playgrounds. They emphasize hands-on learning experiences and maintain low student-teacher ratios to ensure individualized attention.
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The Goddard School of Queensbury
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Queensbury offers a play-based learning approach through their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that balances academic preparation with social development. The center features secure entry systems, daily health checks, and comprehensive safety protocols. All lead teachers have degrees in early childhood education or related fields. The facility includes dedicated art and music rooms, STEM learning centers, and age-segregated outdoor play areas. They focus on developing critical thinking skills through inquiry-based learning and maintain detailed developmental progress tracking for each child.
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Little Peoples Place
Little Peoples Place
Little Peoples Place is a locally-owned childcare center serving the greater Glens Falls area including Fort Edward families. They implement a balanced curriculum combining structured learning with creative play, focusing on kindergarten readiness skills. The center maintains enhanced safety measures including secure access control and comprehensive background checks for all staff. Teachers participate in ongoing professional development and many have decade-plus tenure. The facility features multiple outdoor play spaces, dedicated nap rooms, and age-specific learning centers. They emphasize community involvement and maintain strong parent communication through daily reports and regular conferences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Fort Edward, NY
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Fort Edward, New York, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Fort Edward, all childcare programs caring for three or more children must be licensed or registered with the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). This includes family daycares (in a home) and daycare centers. Licensing ensures providers meet strict standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, and program curriculum. To verify a provider's status, you can use the OCFS "Child Care Program Search" website or contact the OCFS regional office in Albany, which oversees Washington County. Always ask to see the provider's current license or registration certificate during your visit.
What is the average cost of full-time infant daycare in Fort Edward, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Fort Edward and the surrounding Washington County area, the average cost for full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $175 to $250 per week. Costs can vary based on the type of care (center-based vs. family home), specific programs offered, and whether meals are included. For financial assistance, eligible families can apply for the New York State Child Care Subsidy Program through the Washington County Department of Social Services. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's important to inquire directly.
How long are daycare waitlists typically in Fort Edward, and when should I start looking for care?
Due to limited childcare slots in a smaller community like Fort Edward, waitlists for infant and toddler care, especially at highly-rated centers or licensed family homes, can be significant. It is common to encounter waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. We strongly recommend that expecting parents or families planning a move begin their search and get on waitlists as early as possible, ideally during the first or second trimester of pregnancy. For preschool-age openings, starting your search 9-12 months in advance is still advisable.
Are there any unique childcare options in Fort Edward that utilize the local community or environment?
Yes, Fort Edward's location offers some unique childcare aspects. Several providers incorporate the rural and natural environment into their programs, with outdoor play and learning being a significant focus. Given the proximity to the Hudson River and local farms, some programs may include nature walks, gardening projects, or local field trips. Additionally, as part of the Greater Glens Falls area, some home-based providers or small centers may participate in community events or partnerships with the Fort Edward Free Library or the local school district for enrichment activities.
What resources are available in Fort Edward to help me find and evaluate different daycare providers?
The primary local resource is the **Child Care Council of Northeastern New York**, which serves Washington County. They offer a free referral service to help parents find licensed/registered providers that match their needs, provide guidance on what to look for during a visit, and explain state regulations. You can contact them online or by phone. Furthermore, local parenting groups on social media (like Facebook groups for Fort Edward/Glens Falls parents) are often valuable for getting personal recommendations and experiences. The Fort Edward Union Free School District may also have information about pre-K partnerships or before/after-school care programs.
Nearby Cities
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