The Best Daycare Centers in Hammond, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Hammond. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Hammond
SUNY Potsdam Childcare Center
State University of New York at Potsdam
The SUNY Potsdam Childcare Center is a highly-regarded facility serving the North Country region, including Hammond families. As part of the State University system, it offers a research-based educational curriculum with certified early childhood educators. The center features developmentally appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor play areas, and emphasizes social-emotional learning. With low teacher-to-child ratios and comprehensive safety protocols, it provides both full-time and part-time care options. The curriculum incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and creative arts, with many staff holding advanced degrees in early childhood education.
Daycare Services:
Community Day Care Center
Community Day Care Center of Potsdam
Community Day Care Center is a licensed nonprofit facility serving families throughout St. Lawrence County, including Hammond. The center employs New York State-certified teachers and follows Creative Curriculum with individualized learning plans. Features include secure keypad entry, nutritionally balanced meals, and spacious indoor/outdoor play areas. The program emphasizes whole-child development with focus on literacy, mathematics, and social skills. Parent communication includes daily reports and regular conferences. The center maintains excellent state inspection records and offers flexible scheduling to accommodate working families.
Daycare Services:
Early Childhood Center at St. Lawrence University
St. Lawrence University
The Early Childhood Center at St. Lawrence University serves as a model early childhood program for the North Country region, drawing families from Hammond and surrounding communities. The center functions as both a childcare facility and teacher training laboratory, ensuring cutting-edge educational practices. Staff include master teachers with NYS certification and graduate students in education. The program emphasizes play-based learning, emergent curriculum, and inclusive practices. Facilities feature observation rooms, specialized learning centers, and nature-based outdoor classrooms. The center maintains exceptional safety standards with comprehensive background checks and ongoing staff development.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Hammond, NY
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Hammond, NY, and how can I verify a provider's status?
In Hammond, NY, all childcare providers caring for three or more children for more than three hours a day 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. Licensed centers have stricter staff-to-child ratios and facility requirements. You can verify a provider's license, view inspection reports, and check for any violations by using the OCFS "Child Care Facility Search" tool on their official website. It's highly recommended to cross-reference this state information and even contact the St. Lawrence County Department of Social Services for any local insights or subsidy program partnerships.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare in Hammond, NY, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In the Hammond and broader St. Lawrence County area, daycare costs are generally lower than in major New York metros but can vary. For an infant, you might expect to pay between $150 to $225 per week for a family daycare home, and slightly more for a center-based program. Costs decrease slightly for toddlers and preschoolers. Financial assistance is available through the New York State Child Care Subsidy Program, administered locally by the St. Lawrence County Department of Social Services. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (work, training, etc.). Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly.
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers or popular in-home providers in Hammond, and when should I start looking?
Due to the rural nature of Hammond and limited provider options, waitlists for licensed daycare, especially for infants and toddlers, can be significant. It is not uncommon for popular providers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. Parents are strongly advised to begin their search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 6-9 months before their needed start date. Be proactive: call providers, ask about their current list length and policy, and get on lists even if you're unsure. Flexibility on start dates can sometimes improve your chances.
Are there any unique childcare options in Hammond that cater to the needs of agricultural or shift-working families?
Yes, given Hammond's location in an agricultural region, some family daycare providers may offer more flexible or non-traditional hours to accommodate farm families or shift workers at local plants. However, these spots are highly sought after and not widely advertised. Your best approach is to network through local community centers, churches, or agricultural cooperatives like the Cornell Cooperative Extension of St. Lawrence County. Some providers might offer evening, overnight, or weekend care. Be sure to explicitly discuss your schedule needs during your initial inquiries, as standard 7 AM-6 PM hours are the most common.
What resources are available in Hammond to help me evaluate and choose a quality childcare program?
Beyond checking the state OCFS website for licensing, parents can utilize several local resources. The Child Care Council of the North Country, which serves St. Lawrence County, is a key resource. They offer free referrals, can explain quality indicators, and may provide guidance on what to look for during a visit. When touring a provider in Hammond, ask specific questions about their emergency plans for winter weather, their policy on outdoor play (given the climate), and how they communicate with parents. Also, talk to other parents at local spots like the Hammond Community Center or library for personal recommendations and experiences.