The Best Daycare Centers in Highland, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Highland. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Highland
The Children's House of Highland
Independent
The Children's House of Highland offers a comprehensive Montessori-inspired curriculum that emphasizes individualized learning and developmental milestones. The center features low teacher-to-child ratios with certified early childhood educators, many holding advanced degrees. Their facility includes secure indoor learning environments with Montessori materials, dedicated outdoor play areas with natural elements, and comprehensive safety protocols including secure entry systems. The program focuses on hands-on learning, social-emotional development, and preparing children for kindergarten transition. Parents praise the center's warm, nurturing environment and strong communication about child progress.
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Bright Horizons at Poughkeepsie
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Poughkeepsie provides a research-based curriculum called The World at Their Fingertips, emphasizing literacy, math, science, and social skills development. The center employs degreed teachers with specialized early childhood training and maintains excellent staff retention rates. Their state-of-the-art facility features age-appropriate classrooms, secure outdoor playgrounds, and comprehensive safety measures including electronic check-in systems. The program includes enrichment activities like music, movement, and Spanish language exposure. Located just 15 minutes from Highland, this nationally accredited center serves families throughout the Hudson Valley with flexible scheduling options and strong parent partnership programs.
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New Paltz Central School District Community Programs
New Paltz Central School District
Operated by the New Paltz Central School District, this community program offers high-quality early childhood education with certified teachers who follow district curriculum standards. The program emphasizes school readiness through play-based learning, social development, and academic foundations. Their facility includes dedicated preschool classrooms within school buildings, access to school resources like libraries and playgrounds, and comprehensive safety protocols aligned with public school standards. The program serves families from Highland and surrounding communities with seamless transition to public kindergarten. Parents appreciate the experienced teaching staff, structured learning environment, and strong emphasis on developmental appropriateness.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Highland, NY
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Highland, NY?
In Highland and the surrounding Ulster County area, full-time daycare costs vary based on the type of provider. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay approximately $1,200 to $1,600 per month for infant care. For toddlers, the cost may drop slightly to a range of $1,000 to $1,400 per month. Licensed home-based daycare programs are often more affordable, typically ranging from $800 to $1,200 monthly. These costs are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, included amenities (e.g., meals, curriculum), and program reputation. It's important to note that New York State offers a Child Care Subsidy program for eligible families, and Ulster County's Department of Social Services can provide application assistance.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Highland is properly licensed and check their inspection history?
All childcare programs in New York State caring for three or more children must be licensed or registered with the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). To verify a provider in Highland, you can use the NYS OCFS "Child Care Program Search" website. By entering the provider's name or ZIP code (12528), you can view their license status, capacity, and any recent inspection reports. These reports detail compliance with state regulations on health, safety, and programming. You can also contact the OCFS regional office in New Paltz, which oversees Ulster County, for additional information. Always ask to see a provider's current license during your visit.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Highland, and what's the best strategy to secure a spot?
Due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, many daycare centers and highly-regarded home-based programs in the Highland area do maintain waitlists, often several months long. The best strategy is to start your search early, ideally 6-12 months before you need care. Contact multiple providers to get on their lists, even if you're considering other options. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee, which is common. Additionally, expanding your search to nearby communities like Lloyd, Marlboro, or Poughkeepsie can increase your options. Following up politely every few months can also keep your family's application top of mind.
What are the options for before and after-school care for school-age children in the Highland Central School District?
The Highland Central School District itself does not typically operate a district-wide before/after-school program. However, several local options exist. Some licensed daycare centers in the area offer school-age programs that provide transportation to and from district elementary schools. Additionally, community organizations like the Highland Public Library or the Town of Lloyd Recreation Department may offer seasonal or activity-based programs. For consistent care, many families use licensed group family daycares that are approved to care for school-age children. It's crucial to confirm that any provider you choose has a transportation plan and is aware of the specific school's dismissal times and locations.
What unique local resources or programs support parents seeking childcare in Highland, Ulster County?
Ulster County offers several key resources. First, the **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCRR) agency for the region**, operated by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ulster County, is an invaluable free service. They maintain a database of licensed providers, offer counseling on choosing care, and explain subsidy programs. Second, the **Ulster County Department of Social Services** administers the child care subsidy for income-eligible families. Third, local organizations like the **Highland Early Childhood Committee** (if active) or family centers sometimes host parenting workshops and provider fairs. Finally, for developmental screenings or early intervention services, parents can contact the **Mid-Hudson Regional Early Childhood Direction Center**, which serves Ulster County.
Childcare Insights for Highland
As a parent in Highland, New York, the search for "daycare near me" is about more than just finding a convenient location; it's about discovering a nurturing environment where your child can thrive while you're at work. Nestled in the heart of Ulster County, our community offers a unique blend of small-town charm and access to beautiful natural surroundings, factors that often influence the philosophy and daily rhythm of local childcare providers. Beginning your search can feel overwhelming, but focusing on what makes Highland special can help guide you to the right fit for your family.
A great first step is to tap into the local networks that make our town so connected. Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations at the Highland Public Library's children's section or from other parents you meet at James R. Fisher Memorial Park. Personal referrals in a close-knit community like ours are invaluable. Once you have a few names, consider what type of setting aligns with your values. You'll find options ranging from licensed home-based daycares, which often provide a family-like atmosphere, to larger childcare centers that may offer structured preschool curricula. Many providers in the Highland area incorporate the changing seasons and local landmarks into their learning, with activities centered on the Hudson River, fall apple picking at nearby orchards, or simple outdoor exploration.
When you contact or visit a potential daycare, go beyond the basics. Ask about their policies for inclement weather, especially given our Hudson Valley winters, and how they communicate with parents throughout the day. Inquire if meals are provided or if you need to pack a lunch, and discuss their approach to outdoor playtime. Given Highland's location, many daycares have secure outdoor spaces or take regular walks. It's also crucial to verify that the provider is licensed and in good standing with the New York State Office of Children and Family Services; you can check this online for your complete peace of mind.
Remember to trust your instincts during a tour. Observe how the caregivers interact with the children—are they engaged and responsive? Does the environment feel safe, clean, and stimulating? Notice if the children seem happy and busy. Finally, consider the practicalities of your daily commute. A daycare "near you" in Highland should fit logically into your route to work, whether you're heading towards the Mid-Hudson Bridge into Poughkeepsie or north along Route 9W. Finding the right childcare is a significant decision, but by using local resources and asking detailed questions, you can find a supportive partner in your child's early development right here in our own community.