The Best Daycare Centers in Lawrence, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lawrence. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lawrence
The Goddard School of Lawrence
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Lawrence offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum that balances academic learning with creative play. Their state-licensed teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and maintain low student-to-teacher ratios. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. The program emphasizes STEAM learning, language development, and social-emotional growth through structured play and hands-on activities. Parents appreciate the regular communication through daily reports and the comprehensive safety protocols including secure check-in systems.
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Bright Horizons at Cedarhurst
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Cedarhurst provides high-quality early education just minutes from Lawrence, serving the Five Towns community. Their World at Their Fingertips curriculum focuses on emergent learning through child-directed exploration and teacher-guided activities. The center features developmentally appropriate classrooms, dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, and secure outdoor playgrounds. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the center maintains enhanced health and safety protocols including comprehensive background checks and ongoing staff training. The program includes music, movement, and Spanish language exposure as part of their enrichment activities.
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The Learning Experience - Woodmere
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Woodmere serves Lawrence families with their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates phonics, foreign language, and manners programs. The center features bright, modern classrooms, secure indoor and outdoor play spaces, and advanced security systems including fingerprint entry. Their programs include enrichment activities like soccer, yoga, and ballet. The highly qualified teaching staff focuses on individualized learning paths and maintains strong parent communication through daily digital updates. The center is known for its clean, well-maintained facilities and comprehensive approach to early childhood development that balances academic preparation with social skills building.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lawrence, NY
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Lawrence, NY, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Lawrence, NY, full-time daycare for infants (under 18 months) typically ranges from $1,800 to $2,500 per month, while toddler care (18-36 months) often costs between $1,500 and $2,200 per month. These rates reflect the higher cost of living in Nassau County and the demand for quality care. For financial assistance, New York State offers the Child Care Subsidy Program through the Nassau County Department of Social Services, which helps eligible low-income families. Additionally, many local centers may offer sibling discounts. It's also worth inquiring about flexible spending accounts (FSAs) through your employer, as these can be used for childcare with pre-tax dollars.
How do I verify that a daycare or home-based childcare provider in Lawrence is properly licensed and what should I look for during a tour?
All licensed daycare centers and registered family daycares in New York State are regulated by the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). You can verify a provider's license and view any inspection reports or violations online through the NYS OCFS Child Care Facility Search tool. When touring a facility in Lawrence, look for a valid license posted, ask about staff-to-child ratios (NY requires 1:4 for infants, 1:5 for toddlers), check for cleanliness and safety features like secured outlets and gates, and observe staff-child interactions. Inquire about their emergency procedures, especially given Lawrence's proximity to coastal areas, and ask for references from current parents.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Lawrence, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Yes, waitlists are very common for reputable daycare centers and preschools in Lawrence, particularly for infant rooms. Due to high demand and limited infant slots, it is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists during your second trimester of pregnancy, or at least 6-12 months before your desired start date. For toddler or preschool programs, starting 3-6 months in advance is recommended. Many popular centers in the Five Towns area have extensive waitlists. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable waitlist fee (typically $50-$150) and to follow up periodically to express continued interest.
What are the main differences between a daycare center and a family daycare home in Lawrence, and which might be better for my child?
Daycare centers in Lawrence are typically larger facilities with multiple classrooms, structured curricula, and multiple staff members. They often have more resources, like dedicated outdoor play spaces and enrichment programs (e.g., music, early STEM). Family daycare homes are smaller, licensed operations run out of a provider's residence, offering a more home-like environment with mixed-age groups, which can be beneficial for siblings. Centers may offer more rigid hours, while homes can provide more flexibility. Your choice depends on your child's temperament and your family's needs. For a highly social child or one needing a strict schedule, a center might be ideal. For a child who thrives in a quieter, family-style setting, a home daycare could be a better fit.
Beyond basic care, what types of enrichment or educational programs are typically offered by daycare centers in Lawrence for preschool-aged children?
Many daycare centers in Lawrence, serving the education-focused community, offer robust preschool curricula that go beyond basic care. Common enrichments include early literacy programs (often with a Jewish cultural component, reflecting the local demographic), introductory Hebrew or Spanish language exposure, music and movement classes, and structured physical education. You'll also find STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) activities, gardening projects, and social-emotional learning programs. Many centers prepare children for entry into local private or public kindergarten programs. It's important to ask about the educational background of the lead teachers and whether the curriculum aligns with New York State's Early Learning Guidelines.
Childcare Insights for Lawrence
Finding the right childcare is one of the most significant decisions a parent makes, blending practical needs with the deep desire for a nurturing and values-aligned environment. For families in Lawrence, New York, searching for a "Christian daycare near me" means looking for more than just a convenient location; it’s about finding a community where faith and early learning intertwine to support your child’s whole development. The good news is that the Lawrence area, with its strong sense of community, offers several wonderful options that prioritize a Christ-centered approach to care.
When beginning your search in Lawrence, consider the unique rhythm of life here. Many local Christian daycares are affiliated with churches in the Five Towns area, providing a close-knit, family-oriented atmosphere that resonates with the community's character. A key first step is to visit these centers in person. This allows you to observe the daily flow, see how caregivers interact with the children, and feel the overall environment. Look for a space that feels both joyful and peaceful, where biblical principles are woven naturally into songs, stories, and even conflict resolution among little ones. Don’t hesitate to ask about the curriculum; a quality Christian daycare will balance preparatory academic foundations with age-appropriate faith activities, such as simple prayers, Bible stories, and lessons on kindness and sharing.
Practical considerations for Lawrence parents include understanding typical schedules that align with local school districts and commuting patterns. Inquire about flexibility for families who may work in the city or have varying schedules. Given the seasonal changes on Long Island, ask about their policies for outdoor play in their secured spaces and how they handle alternative activities on inclement days. It’s also wise to discuss their communication practices. Regular updates about your child’s day, as well as their spiritual and developmental milestones, are a hallmark of a program that sees each child as an individual.
Finally, connecting with other parents in Lawrence can be invaluable. Talk to families at your local church or community events about their experiences. Personal recommendations often provide the most genuine insight into a daycare’s true character and reliability. Choosing a Christian daycare in Lawrence is about partnering with caregivers who will support you in laying a foundation of love, learning, and faith for your child. By taking the time to find a place where your child is not only safe but also spiritually encouraged, you are giving them a gift that will resonate throughout their early years right here in our community.