The Best Daycare Centers in Lexington, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lexington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lexington
Kiddie Academy of Catskill
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Catskill provides comprehensive educational childcare serving the Lexington area with their Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and creative arts. The center features state-licensed teachers with early childhood education credentials, secure entry systems, and age-appropriate learning environments. Their program includes daily progress reports, nutritious meals, and extensive outdoor play areas. The academy maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios and offers flexible scheduling to accommodate working families in the Greene County region.
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The Learning Experience - East Greenbush
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in East Greenbush serves families throughout the Capital Region including Lexington with their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum. The center features highly qualified early childhood educators, advanced security systems including fingerprint entry, and modern facilities with interactive learning centers. Their program includes foreign language exposure, philanthropy lessons, and comprehensive technology integration. The center is known for its strong parent communication through daily digital updates and regular developmental assessments.
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Little Sprouts Learning Center
Independent
Little Sprouts Learning Center is a highly-regarded independent childcare facility serving Lexington and surrounding Greene County communities. The center offers a play-based educational approach combined with structured learning activities that align with New York State early learning standards. Features include certified early childhood teachers, small class sizes, organic meal programs, and extensive outdoor nature exploration areas. The center is particularly noted for its inclusive environment, strong community partnerships, and emphasis on social-emotional development through the Conscious Discipline framework.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lexington, NY
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Lexington, NY, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Lexington, NY, full-time daycare for an infant (under 18 months) typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,600 per month, while toddler care (18-36 months) often costs between $1,000 and $1,400 per month. These rates are influenced by factors such as the type of provider (center-based vs. home-based), staff-to-child ratios, and included amenities. For financial assistance, New York State offers the Child Care Subsidy Program through the Schuyler County Department of Social Services, which serves the Lexington area. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (work, training, etc.). Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's important to inquire directly.
How long are daycare waitlists typically in Lexington, NY, and what can I do to secure a spot for my child?
Due to limited provider options in a smaller community like Lexington, waitlists for licensed daycare centers and registered home-based programs can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for infant care. To improve your chances, start your search during pregnancy or as early as possible. Contact multiple providers in Lexington and neighboring towns like Watkins Glen or Montour Falls to broaden your options. When you tour a facility, ask to be placed on their waitlist immediately, even if you're unsure, as many lists are non-binding until a spot is offered. Stay in periodic contact (every 2-3 months) to express continued interest.
What are the New York State licensing requirements for daycare providers in Lexington, and how can I verify a provider's compliance?
In New York, daycare providers caring for more than two children unrelated to them must be licensed (for centers) or registered (for family/home daycare) by the NYS Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). Key requirements include background checks for all staff, health and safety training (including CPR/first aid), age-appropriate curriculum, and adherence to strict staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants). To verify a provider's status in the Lexington area, you can use the OCFS "Child Care Program Search" online tool or contact the OCFS regional office in Bath, NY. Always ask to see their current license or registration certificate during a tour.
Are there any unique childcare options in Lexington, NY, such as nature-based or farm-oriented programs, given its rural setting in the Finger Lakes region?
Yes, Lexington's location in the Finger Lakes region offers some unique childcare options that leverage the rural environment. While specific programs may vary, some licensed family daycare providers or small centers incorporate nature-based learning, outdoor play in natural settings, and even gentle exposure to farm animals as part of their curriculum. These programs often emphasize outdoor activity in all weather, aligning with philosophies like "forest school." It's advisable to search for providers in the Schuyler County area who advertise such specialties. Additionally, seasonal day camps for older preschoolers in nearby Watkins Glen or at local farms can supplement traditional daycare.
What should I look for when touring a daycare facility in Lexington, especially considering the seasonal weather and potential for rural isolation?
When touring a daycare in Lexington, pay close attention to factors influenced by the local environment. First, inquire about their policies for outdoor play during cold winters and hot summers, and check that appropriate clothing and sun/weather protection are used. Ask about their emergency preparedness plans for severe weather (like snowstorms) and how they handle potential power outages, which can be more common in rural areas. Ensure transportation routes are safe and that the facility has reliable communication systems, as cell service can be spotty. Also, observe the cleanliness and safety of both indoor spaces and any outdoor play areas, which should be securely fenced and free from rural hazards like unattended tools or unsafe water sources.