The Best Daycare Centers in Howard Beach, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Howard Beach. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Howard Beach
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Howard Beach offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Features state-certified teachers with early childhood education degrees, low student-to-teacher ratios, and secure facility with keypad entry. Curriculum includes STEAM learning, literacy development, and character enrichment programs. Modern classrooms feature interactive whiteboards and developmentally appropriate learning centers. Offers nutritious meals and snacks, outdoor playgrounds, and regular parent communication through daily reports and mobile app updates.
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Creative Kids Family Daycare
Independent
Creative Kids Family Daycare provides a warm, home-like environment with structured educational programming. Specializes in individualized attention with small group sizes and consistent caregiver relationships. Implements play-based learning approach with emphasis on creative arts, music, and early literacy. Features certified early childhood educators with CPR/First Aid training, secure monitored facility, and structured daily routines that balance learning activities with free play. Offers organic meal program, regular developmental assessments, and extensive outdoor play space with age-appropriate equipment. Highly praised for nurturing environment and strong parent-teacher partnerships.
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Little Scholars Childcare Center
Independent
Little Scholars Childcare Center, located just minutes from Howard Beach, offers comprehensive early childhood education with research-based curriculum. Features New York State certified teachers, developmentally appropriate learning environments, and focus on school readiness skills. Implements Creative Curriculum system with emphasis on language development, mathematics, and social skills. Includes secure facility with surveillance systems, structured learning centers, and outdoor educational playground. Provides daily progress reports, parent involvement opportunities, and enrichment programs including music and movement. Known for strong academic foundation preparation and caring, qualified teaching staff serving the broader Queens community.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Howard Beach, NY
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Howard Beach, NY, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Howard Beach, the cost of full-time daycare or preschool can vary significantly based on the type of program and the age of your child. For an infant or toddler at a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $1,200 to $1,800 per month. For preschool-aged children (3-5 years), costs typically range from $900 to $1,400 per month. Home-based family daycare is often more affordable, ranging from $800 to $1,200 monthly. These rates are influenced by factors like program hours, curriculum, and staff-to-child ratios. For financial assistance, New York State offers the Child Care Subsidy Program through the NYC Administration for Children's Services (ACS). Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (e.g., work, school). Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships. It's highly recommended to contact the Howard Beach ACS office or visit the NYC Child Care Connect website to explore subsidy options and apply early, as waitlists for assistance can be long.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Howard Beach, and when should I start my search?
Waitlists for well-regarded daycare centers and preschools in Howard Beach can be substantial, often ranging from 6 to 18 months, especially for infant and toddler programs. Popular centers with strong reputations or those affiliated with local schools or community organizations may have the longest lists. To secure a spot, it is advisable to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during your pregnancy or at least 12 months before your desired start date. For preschool programs for 3- or 4-year-olds, you should inquire and apply in the fall prior to the school year you are targeting (e.g., apply in September/October 2024 for a September 2025 start). Be proactive: visit centers, complete applications thoroughly, and follow up periodically. Also, consider expanding your search to include licensed family daycare providers in the neighborhood, as they may have more immediate availability and offer a smaller, home-like setting.
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Howard Beach, and how can I verify a provider's compliance and safety record?
All daycare providers in Howard Beach must be licensed or registered with the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). This includes daycare centers, group family daycare homes (caring for 7-12 children), and family daycare homes (caring for up to 6 children). Licensing ensures providers meet strict standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, child-to-staff ratios, and facility safety. To verify a provider's status and review their compliance history, you can use the free public online database called "NYC Child Care Connect" or the NYS OCFS "Child Care Facility Search" tool. These resources allow you to see the provider's license status, any past violations, and inspection reports. When touring a facility, don't hesitate to ask for their license documentation and their most recent inspection report. You can also contact the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene for local oversight inquiries. Always choose a licensed provider to ensure your child's safety and a regulated standard of care.
Are there any unique childcare options in Howard Beach that cater to families with non-traditional work hours or shift workers?
Yes, while traditional daycare hours (typically 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM) are most common, Howard Beach does have some options for parents with non-traditional schedules. A few licensed family daycare homes may offer evening, overnight, or weekend care to accommodate nurses, first responders, or hospitality workers common in the NYC area. Additionally, some larger daycare centers in nearby neighborhoods like Ozone Park or Rockaway Beach may offer extended hours. It's crucial to inquire directly with providers about flexible scheduling. Another valuable resource is the network of "Family Child Care Networks" sponsored by NYC, which can help connect you with registered home-based providers who might offer more flexible hours. For backup or emergency care, consider exploring drop-in daycare services available in broader Queens, though these are less common in Howard Beach itself. Planning and communication are key—discuss your specific schedule needs early in your search.
What should I look for in a daycare facility specific to the Howard Beach community, such as outdoor space or emergency preparedness?
Given Howard Beach's coastal location and community layout, there are specific features to prioritize. First, inquire about outdoor play space and flood zone preparedness. Many homes and facilities in Howard Beach are in flood zones, so a quality daycare should have a clear emergency evacuation plan for events like hurricanes or coastal flooding. Ask how they communicate during emergencies and where their designated safe relocation site is. Second, due to the suburban, residential nature of the area, look for facilities with secure, fenced outdoor play areas that allow children safe access to fresh air—a valuable asset. Third, consider the program's connection to the local community. Do they incorporate local parks (like Frank M. Charles Memorial Park) or libraries into their activities? Do they have policies for safe pick-up/drop-off given the neighborhood's street parking dynamics? Finally, given the diverse community, look for a program that embraces cultural inclusivity. A facility that feels integrated into the fabric of Howard Beach will often provide a more reassuring and connected experience for your family.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Howard Beach: