The Best Daycare Centers in Howells, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Howells. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Howells
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Middletown offers a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Their play-based curriculum includes STEAM learning, literacy development, and character education. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms with natural lighting, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the school maintains low student-teacher ratios. The center is known for its strong parent communication through daily reports and a proprietary mobile app.
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Kiddie Academy of Montgomery
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Montgomery provides Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, educational preparedness, and healthful living. Their program includes Spanish language exposure, technology integration, and hands-on learning activities. The center features secure keypad entry, CCTV monitoring, and rigorous safety protocols. Classrooms are organized into learning centers for math, science, literacy, and creative arts. Teachers receive ongoing professional development and many hold advanced degrees. The academy offers nutritious meals and snacks through their included meal program and maintains excellent parent satisfaction through regular communication and family engagement events.
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Little Harvard Preschool
Little Harvard
Little Harvard Preschool offers an advanced academic curriculum that prepares children for elementary school success while maintaining a nurturing environment. Their program includes early literacy, mathematics, science exploration, and social studies. The facility features modern classrooms with interactive whiteboards, a dedicated music room, and expansive outdoor play areas with safety surfaces. The center employs degreed early childhood educators and maintains small class sizes for individualized attention. Safety measures include secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. Parents appreciate the detailed progress reports and strong academic foundation provided to students.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Howells, NY
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Howells, NY, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Howells, NY, and the surrounding Orange County area, full-time daycare for an infant can range from approximately $1,200 to $1,600 per month, while toddler and preschool care typically costs between $1,000 and $1,400 per month. These rates are influenced by factors such as the program's curriculum, staff-to-child ratios, and facility amenities. For financial assistance, parents can apply for the New York State Child Care Subsidy Program through the Orange County Department of Social Services. Additionally, some local providers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees. It's also worth checking with employers in the Middletown or Port Jervis areas, as some may participate in dependent care assistance programs.
How long are waitlists for licensed daycare centers and home-based programs in Howells, and what can I do to secure a spot?
Due to high demand and limited providers in the more rural Howells area, waitlists for licensed daycare centers and registered home-based programs can be significant, often ranging from 3 to 9 months, especially for infant care. The most sought-after programs in the local Deerpark School District catchment area may have even longer waits. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or at least 6 months before your needed start date. Contact multiple providers, get on multiple waitlists, and follow up politely every 4-6 weeks. Consider expanding your search to nearby towns like Port Jervis or Huguenot for more options. Being flexible with your start date can also help.
What are the New York State licensing requirements for childcare providers in Howells, and how can I verify a provider's compliance?
All childcare providers in Howells must be licensed or registered by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). Licensed daycare centers and group family daycare homes undergo rigorous inspections for health, safety, staff qualifications (including background checks and training in CPR/First Aid), and program standards. Registered family daycare homes have slightly different requirements but are still regulated. Parents can verify a provider's status, view inspection reports, and check for any violations by using the OCFS "Child Care Program Search" tool online or by contacting the OCFS regional office in Newburgh. Always ask to see the provider's current license or registration certificate during your visit.
Are there any unique childcare options in Howells that cater to families with non-traditional work hours or agricultural backgrounds?
Given Howells' semi-rural setting in Orange County, some childcare options may offer more flexibility. While traditional center hours (e.g., 7 AM to 6 PM) are standard, a limited number of registered family daycare homes may offer evening, overnight, or weekend care to accommodate shift workers from nearby healthcare facilities or retail hubs. Furthermore, some providers are familiar with the seasonal demands of local agriculture and may offer more flexible summer schedules or part-time arrangements. It's essential to inquire directly with providers about their hours and flexibility. Networking through local community centers or the Deerpark Town Hall can sometimes lead to finding smaller, informal networks of caregivers who understand these unique needs.
What resources are available in Howells to help me evaluate and choose a quality childcare program?
Parents in Howells have several local resources. First, contact the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCRR) agency for Orange County, which can provide free, personalized referrals and quality checklists. The Orange County Department of Health can provide information on health and safety compliance. For quality evaluation, look for programs that are accredited by organizations like the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) or participate in New York's QualitystarsNY rating system, though these may be more common in larger nearby towns. Schedule in-person visits to observe interactions, ask about staff turnover, and review their emergency plans for rural issues like power outages or weather closures. Talking to other parents at local spots like the Howells Fire Department community events or the Deerpark Library can also provide valuable firsthand insights.