The Best Daycare Centers in Lowman, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lowman. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lowman
Rainbow Preschool & Child Care Center
Rainbow Preschool & Child Care Center
Rainbow Preschool & Child Care Center is a highly-regarded facility serving the Lowman area with a comprehensive educational approach. They implement Creative Curriculum with hands-on learning experiences that promote cognitive, social, and emotional development. The center features qualified early childhood educators with low teacher-to-child ratios, secure entry systems, and modern learning environments. Their program includes structured learning centers, outdoor playgrounds, and enrichment activities. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment, experienced staff, and strong communication about child development progress. The center maintains excellent safety records and offers nutritional meal programs.
Daycare Services:
KinderCare Learning Center at Horseheads
KinderCare Education
This KinderCare location serves the Lowman community with nationally-recognized early childhood education programs. They employ a research-based curriculum focusing on literacy, math, science, and social skills development. The center features dedicated learning spaces for each age group, secure facilities with keypad entry, and outdoor play areas. Staff includes certified early childhood educators with ongoing professional development. The center offers flexible scheduling and emphasizes parent partnerships through regular updates and family events. Health and safety protocols exceed state requirements, including comprehensive background checks and emergency preparedness training.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Corning
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Corning provides premium early childhood education serving families in the Lowman region. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) balances academic preparation with social development and citizenship. The school features purpose-built classrooms, age-appropriate playgrounds, and advanced security systems. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and participate in continuous training. The curriculum includes STEAM learning, language development, and character education. Parents appreciate the comprehensive communication system, including daily activity reports and developmental assessments. The facility maintains exceptional cleanliness standards and nutritional meal programs.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lowman, NY
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Lowman, NY, and how can I verify a facility is compliant?
In Lowman, NY, all childcare programs caring for three or more children away from their own home must be licensed or registered with the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). This includes family daycares (in a provider's home) and group family daycares. Licensed centers undergo rigorous inspections for health, safety, staff qualifications, and program standards. You can verify a provider's compliance and view any past violations by using the OCFS "Child Care Facility Search" tool online. For very small, informal care (like a neighbor watching one or two children), registration may not be required, but for your peace of mind, seeking a licensed provider is strongly recommended.
Given Lowman's rural setting in Chemung County, what types of childcare options are typically available, and are waitlists common?
Due to Lowman's rural nature within the Town of Ashland, childcare options are more limited compared to larger urban areas. You'll primarily find licensed family daycares and group family daycares operated in private homes. There are fewer large childcare centers, and families sometimes look to nearby towns like Elmira for center-based options. Waitlists are very common, especially for infant care, which has stricter staff-to-child ratios. It's advisable to begin your search at least 6-9 months before you need care. Networking with other local parents and checking with community hubs like the Chemung County Department of Social Services can help identify openings.
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Lowman, NY?
In Lowman and the surrounding Chemung County area, costs are generally lower than the New York State average but can vary. For a licensed family daycare, you might expect to pay between $150 to $225 per week for full-time infant or toddler care. Group family daycares or centers, if available, may range from $200 to $275 per week. These are estimates; always get direct quotes. Financial assistance is available for eligible families through the Chemung County Department of Social Services via the Child Care Subsidy program, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs based on income and need.
Are there any local resources or programs in Chemung County that help parents find and evaluate childcare in Lowman?
Yes, the primary local resource is the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency serving Chemung County, which is typically **The Child Development Council of the Finger Lakes**. They offer free, personalized referrals to licensed and registered providers in Lowman and the wider region. Their specialists can help you understand your options, navigate the subsidy application process, and provide checklists for evaluating a daycare's quality. You can contact them by phone or through their website. Additionally, the Chemung County Chamber of Commerce or local Facebook community groups for parents can be useful for gathering personal recommendations.
What should I look for during a daycare visit in a rural home-based setting in Lowman?
When visiting a home-based daycare in Lowman, beyond standard checks for cleanliness and safety (outlet covers, secure chemicals, etc.), pay special attention to factors important in a rural setting. Ask about their emergency plan for severe weather or power outages, and how they handle transportation or isolation if medical care is needed. Inspect the outdoor play area for safety and fencing. Given the potential for longer travel distances, confirm their hours are flexible enough for your commute. Observe how the provider interacts with the children in a small, home-like setting—this personal interaction is often a key benefit of rural family daycare. Always ask for references from other local parents.