The Best Daycare Centers in Frankfort, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Frankfort. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Frankfort
Little Learners Child Care Center
Independent
Little Learners Child Care Center provides comprehensive early childhood education with a play-based learning approach. The center features state-certified teachers with degrees in early childhood education, low student-to-teacher ratios, and a security-coded entry system. Their curriculum emphasizes literacy development, STEM activities, and social-emotional learning. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds, dedicated art and music rooms, and nutritious meal programs. Parents consistently praise the center's communication, experienced staff, and nurturing environment that promotes developmental milestones.
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ABC Discovery Center
ABC Childcare Group
ABC Discovery Center serves the Frankfort area with a research-based curriculum that combines Montessori principles with traditional early education. The center features highly qualified staff with CPR/first aid certification and ongoing professional development. Their comprehensive program includes language immersion options, technology-integrated learning stations, and outdoor nature exploration areas. Safety protocols include secure check-in systems, regular safety drills, and health screening procedures. The center is noted for its inclusive environment and strong parent-teacher partnerships.
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The Learning Tree Child Development Center
Regional Childcare Management
The Learning Tree Child Development Center offers a comprehensive early childhood program with a focus on individualized learning and whole-child development. Their NAEYC-aligned curriculum incorporates creative arts, mathematics, science, and literacy through hands-on experiences. The center features certified early childhood educators, small class sizes, and modern facilities with secure outdoor play areas. Special programs include music and movement classes, gardening activities, and community involvement projects. The center maintains excellent safety records and provides detailed progress reports to families.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Frankfort, NY
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Frankfort, NY, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Frankfort, NY, 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 group family daycares, as well as center-based programs. Licensing ensures providers meet standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, and program activities. To verify a provider's status, you can use the OCFS "Child Care Facility Search" tool online or contact the OCFS regional office in Syracuse, which oversees Herkimer County. It's crucial to check for any recent violations or enforcement actions. Many reputable providers in Frankfort will also be part of the Herkimer County Child Care Coordinating Council's referral network.
What is the average cost of full-time infant daycare in Frankfort, NY, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Frankfort and the surrounding Herkimer County area, full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $175 to $250 per week. Center-based care tends to be on the higher end of that range, while licensed family daycares may be slightly more affordable. Costs can vary based on the program's hours, amenities, and curriculum. For financial assistance, New York State's Child Care Subsidy Program is available for eligible families through the Herkimer County Department of Social Services. Additionally, the Herkimer County Child Care Coordinating Council can provide guidance on subsidies and may have information on local scholarships or sliding-scale fee programs offered by specific providers.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Frankfort, and when should I start looking for infant care?
Due to limited capacity, especially for infants who require lower staff-to-child ratios, waitlists at daycare centers and popular licensed home providers in Frankfort can be significant. It is not uncommon for families to encounter waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer, for an infant spot. We strongly recommend starting your search and getting on waitlists as soon as you know you will need care, ideally during pregnancy. Contacting multiple providers—including centers in nearby communities like Ilion, Herkimer, and Utica—increases your chances. The Herkimer County Child Care Coordinating Council offers a free referral service that can help you identify providers with current or upcoming openings.
Are there any daycare providers in Frankfort that offer non-traditional hours for parents working shifts in local manufacturing or healthcare?
Yes, recognizing the local employment base which includes manufacturing, distribution, and healthcare facilities with shift work, some childcare providers in the Frankfort area offer extended or non-traditional hours. This is more commonly found in licensed group family daycares or certain centers that may offer early morning (starting at 5:30 or 6:00 AM) or evening coverage. It is essential to inquire directly with providers about their specific hours of operation. The "Child Care Facility Search" from OCFS allows you to filter for programs that offer "Non-Traditional Hours." Additionally, the Herkimer County Child Care Coordinating Council can help identify these specific providers during a referral request.
What types of preschool or pre-K programs are integrated into daycare options in Frankfort, NY?
Many daycare programs in Frankfort integrate early learning curricula for preschool-aged children (3-5 years old). Some centers are licensed as "Day Care Centers" with preschool components, while others may be registered as "Nursery Schools." A key local resource is the Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) program. While Frankfort-Schuyler Central School District administers UPK, it is often delivered through partnerships with local licensed daycare centers or nursery schools. This means your child could attend a free, quality pre-K program within a daycare setting you're already familiar with. You should contact the Frankfort-Schuyler Central School District for UPK provider partnership details and application processes, which are separate from standard daycare enrollment.