The Best Daycare Centers in Hartsdale, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Hartsdale. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Hartsdale
The Goddard School of Hartsdale
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Hartsdale offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Their state-licensed teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and receive ongoing professional development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play spaces. Curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development programs. They maintain low student-teacher ratios and provide daily communication to parents through their proprietary app. The school is known for its clean, modern facilities and comprehensive safety protocols including regular health screenings.
Daycare Services:
Bright Horizons at White Plains
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at White Plains serves Hartsdale families with their World at Their Fingers® curriculum that emphasizes emergent, project-based learning. The center features dedicated infant rooms with primary caregiver assignments, toddler environments designed for exploration, and preschool classrooms with literacy-rich materials. All lead teachers hold early childhood degrees and the center maintains NAEYC accreditation. Safety features include secured entrances, comprehensive background checks, and emergency preparedness protocols. The program focuses on developing executive function skills, social competence, and early academic foundations through hands-on learning experiences and individualized attention.
Daycare Services:
The Learning Experience - Scarsdale
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Scarsdale provides comprehensive early education through their L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates phonics, foreign language, and philanthropy. The center features colorful, engaging classrooms, indoor gymnasium, and secure outdoor playgrounds. Their proprietary curriculum includes early coding, robotics, and manners programs alongside traditional academic preparation. All teachers are CPR and First Aid certified with ongoing professional development requirements. The center maintains strict health and safety protocols including enhanced cleaning procedures and secure check-in systems. Parent communication includes daily reports and regular portfolio assessments tracking developmental milestones.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Hartsdale, NY
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Hartsdale, NY?
In Hartsdale, NY, full-time daycare costs are generally on the higher end, reflecting the area's cost of living and proximity to New York City. For an infant (under 18 months), you can expect to pay between $1,800 and $2,500+ per month at a licensed center. For toddlers, monthly fees typically range from $1,600 to $2,200. Home-based family daycare programs may offer slightly lower rates, often between $1,300 and $1,800 monthly. These costs are for a standard 5-day, 8-10 hour schedule. It's important to inquire about what is included, such as meals, formula, diapers, and enrichment activities, as these can affect the overall value. Financial assistance may be available through New York State's Child Care Subsidy Program for eligible families.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Hartsdale, and when should I start looking?
Waitlists for highly-regarded daycare centers in Hartsdale can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 18 months, especially for infant spots which have stricter staff-to-child ratios. It is strongly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during your pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before your desired start date. Many parents tour facilities and apply to multiple centers to increase their chances. Some centers may require a non-refundable application or waitlist fee. For more immediate needs, exploring licensed family daycare homes or newer centers may yield shorter wait times. Staying in regular, polite contact with centers on your list can also be beneficial.
What are the key New York State licensing requirements I should verify when choosing a daycare in Hartsdale?
All childcare programs in Hartsdale must be licensed or registered with the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). Key requirements to verify include: **Staff-to-Child Ratios** (e.g., 1:4 for infants under 18 months, 1:5 for toddlers 18-36 months), **Maximum Group Sizes**, and **Staff Qualifications** (including background checks, training in CPR/First Aid, and mandated reporter training). Licensed centers and homes must also meet health, safety, and nutrition standards. You can check a provider's licensing status, inspection history, and any violations through the OCFS website. Always ask to see their current license during your tour.
Are there specific local resources or programs in Hartsdale to help parents find and evaluate childcare options?
Yes, Hartsdale parents have several valuable local resources. The **Westchester County Child Care Council** is a primary resource, offering free, personalized referrals to licensed providers in Hartsdale and throughout the county. They can be contacted via phone or their website. Additionally, the **Hartsdale Public Library** often has community bulletin boards with information on local family daycares and preschools. Online, local parent groups on Facebook (e.g., "Hartsdale Moms & Dads") are excellent for getting firsthand recommendations and reviews. For evaluating quality, look for programs accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) or participating in New York's QualitystarsNY rating system.
What are the common schedule options and hours of operation for daycares in Hartsdale?
Most daycare centers in Hartsdale operate on a standard schedule to accommodate working parents, typically from 7:00 AM or 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM or 6:30 PM, Monday through Friday. Full-time (5 days/week) is the most common option, but many centers also offer part-time schedules (e.g., 3 or 4 days a week), often at a prorated cost. Some may offer early drop-off or late pick-up for an additional fee. It's less common to find weekend or overnight care in standard centers. Family daycare homes may offer more flexible or extended hours. Be sure to confirm specific operating hours, holiday closures, and policies for late pick-up fees during your initial inquiries.