The Best Daycare Centers in Lake George, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lake George. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lake George
The Goddard School of Queensbury
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Queensbury offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic readiness, social development, and creative expression. 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 dedicated play areas. The curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development, with daily communication to parents through the Goddard School mobile app. Located just 10 minutes from Lake George, this center serves families throughout the region with flexible scheduling options.
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Bright Horizons at Glens Falls
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Glens Falls provides high-quality early education with their World at Their Fingertips curriculum that emphasizes literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills development. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, indoor gross motor spaces, and developmentally appropriate learning materials. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios. Their Emergent Curriculum follows children's interests while ensuring kindergarten readiness. The center offers nutritious meals and snacks, regular developmental assessments, and serves families throughout the Lake George region, located approximately 15 minutes from downtown Lake George.
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Lake George Cooperative Preschool
Lake George Cooperative Preschool
Lake George Cooperative Preschool is a community-based, parent-participatory preschool offering play-based education with a focus on social-emotional development and school readiness. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through centers, outdoor exploration, and creative arts. Certified early childhood educators lead small class sizes with strong parent involvement. The facility includes both indoor learning spaces and outdoor play areas designed for young children. Their developmentally appropriate curriculum prepares children for kindergarten while fostering independence and love of learning. As a true local option in Lake George village, they maintain strong community connections and offer flexible scheduling for families in the immediate Lake George area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lake George, NY
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Lake George, NY?
In Lake George, NY, full-time daycare costs can vary significantly based on the type of provider. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $1,200 to $1,600 per month for infant care. For toddlers, the range is typically $1,000 to $1,400 per month. Licensed home-based daycare programs are often slightly less expensive, ranging from $800 to $1,200 monthly. These costs are influenced by factors such as the program's curriculum, staff-to-child ratios, and included amenities (like meals). It's important to note that as a popular tourist destination, Lake George has a higher cost of living than some other parts of upstate New York, which is reflected in childcare pricing. We recommend contacting providers directly for the most current rates and inquiring about any available sibling discounts.
How long are waitlists for daycare centers in Lake George, and when should I start looking?
Due to high demand and limited year-round availability in a seasonal community like Lake George, waitlists for reputable daycare centers and home-based programs can be substantial. It is not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, especially for infant spots, which are the most limited. We strongly advise parents to begin their search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during the first trimester of pregnancy. For families planning to move to the area, starting inquiries 9-12 months in advance is prudent. Be sure to ask providers about their specific waitlist policies, including any non-refundable deposit to hold a spot and how often you should check in to maintain your position.
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Lake George, and how can I verify a provider's status?
All childcare providers caring for three or more children in New York State must be licensed or registered with the NYS Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). This includes both daycare centers and family daycare homes. Licensed providers must meet strict standards for health, safety, staff qualifications, background checks, and program content. To verify the licensing status and view any history of violations for a provider in Lake George, you can use the free, public **NYS OCFS Child Care Facility Search** tool online. Simply enter the provider's name or zip code (12845). We highly recommend using this tool and choosing only licensed or registered providers to ensure your child's safety and a regulated standard of care.
Are there seasonal or summer-only childcare options available in Lake George for school-age children?
Yes, Lake George offers several excellent seasonal options tailored to its summer tourism economy. Many local daycare centers and organizations like the Lake George Recreation Center or the Lake George Elementary School run structured summer camp programs for school-age children (typically ages 5-12). These camps often feature themed weeks, field trips to local attractions like the beach or Fort William Henry, and outdoor activities. Enrollment for these popular programs usually opens in early spring and fills quickly. Additionally, some year-round providers may offer flexible summer schedules. These programs are a great solution for parents who work in the local hospitality or service industries during the busy summer season.
What resources are available in Lake George to help me find and evaluate different childcare options?
The primary local resource for finding licensed childcare is the **Child Care Council of Warren, Washington & Saratoga Counties**. While not based in Lake George itself, this regional resource and referral agency serves the area. You can contact them for a customized list of licensed providers in the 12845 zip code. They also offer guidance on what to look for during a visit, questions to ask providers, and information on financial assistance programs like the NYS Child Care Subsidy. Locally, we recommend connecting with other parents through community groups on social media (e.g., "Lake George, NY Community" Facebook groups) for personal recommendations and insights into provider reputations, which is invaluable in a small community.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Lake George: