The Best Daycare Centers in Manhasset, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Manhasset. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Manhasset
The Learning Experience - Manhasset
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Manhasset offers a comprehensive early education curriculum with proprietary programs like L.E.A.P. (Learning Experience Academic Program). The center features state-of-the-art security systems, including keypad entry and surveillance cameras. Highly qualified teachers implement age-appropriate learning activities focusing on literacy, mathematics, and social-emotional development. The facility includes modern classrooms, indoor play areas, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Parents praise the center's communication through daily reports and the nurturing environment that promotes both academic and social growth.
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Great Neck Community School
Great Neck Community School
Located just minutes from Manhasset, Great Neck Community School offers a play-based curriculum that emphasizes social, emotional, and academic development. The school features low student-teacher ratios and certified early childhood educators. Their program includes specialized enrichment classes in music, movement, and art. The facility maintains excellent safety protocols with secure entry systems and comprehensive background checks for all staff. Parents consistently highlight the school's warm, inclusive environment and the strong sense of community among families. The curriculum prepares children for elementary school while fostering creativity and independence.
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Harbor Child Care - Port Washington
Harbor Child Care
Harbor Child Care in Port Washington serves families throughout the North Shore area, including Manhasset. The center offers a research-based curriculum that incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and social skills. Certified teachers with early childhood degrees create individualized learning plans for each child. The facility includes secure outdoor playgrounds, modern classrooms with natural lighting, and dedicated spaces for different age groups. Harbor emphasizes nutritional excellence with chef-prepared meals and snacks. Parents appreciate the transparent communication through the Brightwheel app and the center's commitment to creating a nurturing, educational environment that supports whole-child development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Manhasset, NY
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Manhasset, NY, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Manhasset, full-time daycare for infants and toddlers typically ranges from $1,800 to $2,800 per month, while preschool programs for 3-5 year olds generally cost between $1,200 and $2,200 per month. These rates reflect the high cost of living in Nassau County and the demand for quality programs in the area. For financial assistance, New York State offers the Child Care Subsidy Program through the Nassau County Department of Social Services, which eligible families can apply for based on income. Additionally, some local centers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees. It's also worth checking if your employer offers a Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA), which allows you to use pre-tax dollars for childcare expenses.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers and preschools in Manhasset, and when should I start my search?
Waitlists for highly-regarded daycare centers and preschools in Manhasset can be substantial, often ranging from 6 to 18 months, especially for infant and toddler programs. For popular Montessori or accredited preschools, it's not uncommon for families to put their child on a waitlist shortly after birth. We recommend starting your search during pregnancy or at least 12 months before your desired start date. Many centers have annual enrollment cycles with application deadlines in the winter or early spring for a September start. Be prepared to tour multiple facilities, submit applications (which may include fees), and stay in regular contact with centers to express continued interest.
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Manhasset, and how can I verify a center's compliance and quality?
All childcare centers in Manhasset must be licensed and regulated by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). Requirements include background checks for all staff, specific staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants under 18 months), health and safety standards, and ongoing training. You can verify a center's license status, inspection history, and any violations through the OCFS website or by calling their regional office. Beyond licensing, look for additional quality indicators such as accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) or participation in New York's QUALITYstarsNY rating system. Many Manhasset parents also rely on local parent networks and community groups for personal recommendations.
Are there specific daycare or preschool options in Manhasset that cater to parents with non-traditional work hours or offer flexible scheduling?
While most traditional daycare centers in Manhasset operate on standard business hours (typically 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM), options for non-traditional hours are more limited. Some larger childcare chains in the broader North Shore area may offer extended hours. Your best alternatives include licensed family daycare homes, which may offer more flexible scheduling, or seeking a nanny or nanny share arrangement through local agencies or platforms. The Manhasset community also has several part-time preschool programs (often 9 AM-12 PM) that might work for families with a caregiver at home. For shift workers, we recommend contacting the Nassau Child Care Council for referrals to providers who accommodate varied schedules.
What enrichment programs or educational philosophies are commonly offered by Manhasset childcare centers, and how do I choose what's right for my child?
Manhasset daycare centers and preschools offer diverse educational approaches. Common philosophies include Montessori (emphasizing child-led learning), Reggio Emilia (project-based), play-based, and academic preparatory programs. Many centers incorporate enrichment such as music, art, movement, and introductory Spanish. Some facilities have partnerships with local organizations for swimming or gymnastics. When choosing, consider your child's temperament and your educational values. Tour multiple centers to observe classroom environments and teacher interactions. Ask about daily schedules, curriculum goals, and how they support social-emotional development. Given Manhasset's proximity to excellent school districts, many programs focus on kindergarten readiness skills. Local parent groups on social media can provide insights into specific programs' strengths.