The Best Daycare Centers in Highmount, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Highmount. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Highmount
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Kingston offers a play-based learning environment with a STEAM-focused curriculum that emphasizes science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Staffed by certified teachers with low student-to-teacher ratios, the center provides a safe, nurturing atmosphere with age-appropriate activities. Safety protocols include secure entry systems and regular cleanliness audits. Parents praise the strong communication and developmental milestones tracking, along with flexible scheduling options and nutritious meal programs. The facility features indoor and outdoor play spaces designed to foster creativity and physical development.
Daycare Services:
KinderCare Learning Center
KinderCare Education
KinderCare in Kingston utilizes a research-based curriculum that focuses on literacy, math, and social-emotional development through hands-on activities. The center maintains high safety standards with secured facilities, background-checked staff, and emergency preparedness drills. Teachers are qualified with early childhood education credentials and ongoing training. Parents highlight the center's engaging learning materials, cultural diversity inclusion, and effective parent communication. The facility includes outdoor play areas and provides nutritious meals, with options for full-time and part-time care to accommodate family needs.
Daycare Services:
The Children's Center at SUNY Ulster
State University of New York at Ulster
Affiliated with SUNY Ulster, this center offers high-quality early childhood education with a focus on developmental appropriateness and inclusive practices. The curriculum integrates play-based learning with academic readiness, supported by student teachers from the college's early childhood programs. Safety is prioritized through strict hygiene protocols and small class sizes. Staff hold degrees in early childhood education and participate in continuous professional development. Parents appreciate the strong community feel, nutritious snacks, and emphasis on social skills. The center features spacious indoor classrooms and outdoor play areas, promoting holistic child development.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Highmount, NY
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Highmount, NY?
In Highmount, NY, full-time daycare costs vary based on the type of facility and the child's age. For center-based care, you can expect to pay between $1,200 to $1,600 per month for an infant, and slightly less for toddlers, around $1,000 to $1,400 per month. Licensed home-based daycare providers often offer more affordable rates, typically ranging from $800 to $1,200 monthly. These costs are influenced by factors such as staff-to-child ratios, curriculum offerings, and facility amenities. It's important to note that while Highmount is in a rural region of the Catskills, prices can be comparable to some suburban areas due to limited local supply. We recommend inquiring about any potential discounts for siblings or prepaid plans.
How do I verify that a daycare in Highmount is properly licensed and what are New York State's key regulations for childcare?
All licensed daycare providers in Highmount must comply with New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) regulations. You can verify a provider's license and inspection history online through the OCFS "Child Care Facility Search" tool. Key regulations for group daycare centers include: a staff-to-child ratio of 1:4 for infants (under 18 months), 1:5 for toddlers (18-36 months), and 1:7 for preschoolers (3-4 years). All staff must pass background checks and complete mandated training in topics like Safe Sleep (for infants) and Shaken Baby Syndrome prevention. For family daycare homes in Highmount, the licensed capacity is typically up to 6 children, with no more than 2 under the age of two. Always ask to see the provider's current license during your visit.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Highmount, and what's the best time to start looking for a spot?
Yes, due to the limited number of daycare centers in the Highmount area, waitlists are common, especially for infant care. It is not unusual for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. The best practice is to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during your second trimester of pregnancy if you are expecting. For toddler or preschool openings, starting your search 4-6 months in advance is advisable. When contacting providers, ask specific questions about their waitlist process: Is there a fee? How often is the list updated? Do they give preference to siblings? Exploring licensed family daycare homes can also provide more immediate availability.
What unique childcare options or programs are available in Highmount that take advantage of the local environment?
Highmount's location in the Catskill Mountains inspires several unique childcare approaches. Some local providers incorporate "nature-based" or "forest school" principles into their daily routines, with regular outdoor exploration in safe, natural settings. Given the seasonal tourism, a few programs may offer flexible or part-time care tailored to families in the hospitality industry. Additionally, some daycares partner with local resources like the Belleayre Mountain Ski Center (in season) for introductory outdoor activities or with area farms for educational visits. It's worth asking providers about their outdoor play policy and how they integrate the local community and environment into their curriculum.
What resources are available in Highmount to help parents afford quality childcare?
Several financial assistance resources are available to qualifying families in Highmount. The primary program is New York State's Child Care Subsidy Program, administered locally by the Delaware County Department of Social Services (DSS). Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (e.g., work, training). You can apply through the Delaware County DSS office. Additionally, you may be eligible for the New York State Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit on your state taxes. Some local employers in the tourism and healthcare sectors may also offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) or referral services. We recommend contacting the DSS or a local CCR&R (Child Care Resource and Referral) agency for the most current guidance.