Marathon, NY

Bright Horizons at Cortland is a nationally accredited center located approximately 15 miles from Marathon, serving families throughout Cortland County. The center implements the World at Their Fingertips curriculum, which emphasizes language development, literacy, mathematics, and social-emotional learning through hands-on activities. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios. The facility features age-appropriate classrooms, secure entry systems, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different developmental stages. Bright Horizons emphasizes partnership with families through regular communication and parent conferences.

The Learning Garden provides comprehensive early childhood education serving families in Cortland County and surrounding areas including Marathon. Their play-based curriculum incorporates elements of Montessori and Reggio Emilia approaches, focusing on child-directed learning and exploration. The center features dedicated infant rooms with primary caregivers, spacious toddler classrooms, and a structured preschool program preparing children for kindergarten. All staff are CPR and First Aid certified, and the center maintains enhanced safety protocols including secured access and comprehensive cleaning procedures. Parents consistently praise the warm, nurturing environment and strong communication from teachers.

Located approximately 25 miles from Marathon in Ithaca, Cornell Early Childhood Center serves university affiliates and community families with a research-based educational approach. The center implements developmentally appropriate practices aligned with NAEYC standards, focusing on emergent curriculum that follows children's interests. The facility features natural light-filled classrooms, extensive outdoor learning environments, and dedicated spaces for art, music, and movement. Teachers hold advanced degrees in early childhood education and participate in ongoing professional development. The center emphasizes inclusive practices and maintains strong parent partnerships through daily communication and regular educational workshops.