The Best Daycare Centers in Martinsburg, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Martinsburg. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Martinsburg
KinderCare Learning Center of Watertown
KinderCare Education
KinderCare Learning Center of Watertown is part of a nationally accredited network known for its high-quality early childhood education. The center employs a play-based curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math, science, and social skills, tailored to each age group. All teachers are CPR and First Aid certified, with many holding degrees in early childhood education. The facility features secure entry systems, daily health checks, and age-appropriate indoor/outdoor play areas. Parents praise the center for its strong communication, nutritious meal programs, and focus on developmental milestones, making it a trusted choice for families in the North Country region, including Martinsburg.
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The Goddard School of Watertown
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Watertown offers a premier early learning experience with its F.L.E.X.® (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum, which balances academic readiness with creative play. The program includes STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) activities, language development, and social-emotional learning. Staff are highly qualified, with ongoing training in child development and safety protocols. The center boasts modern classrooms, secure facilities, and a focus on individualized learning plans. With excellent parent reviews highlighting its nurturing environment and strong community ties, it serves as a top option for Martinsburg-area families seeking comprehensive childcare.
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Children's Corner Learning Center
Independent
Children's Corner Learning Center is a locally owned and operated facility renowned for its personalized care and robust educational approach. The curriculum integrates Montessori-inspired methods with New York State early learning standards, focusing on hands-on activities, literacy, and character development. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios, with staff trained in safety, inclusivity, and developmental assessments. Features include a fenced outdoor playground, sanitized environments, and flexible scheduling options. Highly rated for its family-oriented atmosphere and consistent parent communication, it reliably serves the Martinsburg community with a commitment to quality and safety.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Martinsburg, NY
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Martinsburg, NY, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Martinsburg and the surrounding Lewis County area, full-time daycare for an infant (under 18 months) typically ranges from $175 to $225 per week, while toddler care (18 months to 3 years) is generally between $150 and $200 per week. These rates can vary based on the provider's licensing, curriculum, and facility amenities. For financial assistance, parents should apply for the New York State Child Care Subsidy Program through the Lewis County Department of Social Services. 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 always worth asking directly.
How do I verify a daycare provider's license and inspection history in Martinsburg, NY?
All licensed and registered childcare programs in New York State are regulated by the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). To verify a provider in Martinsburg, you can use the NYS OCFS "Child Care Program Search" tool online. Simply enter the zip code (13404) or city name to find local providers, and you can view their license status, capacity, and any recent inspection reports that note violations or commendations. You can also contact the OCFS regional office in Syracuse, which oversees Lewis County, for further information. Always choose a licensed or registered provider to ensure they meet state health, safety, and staff training standards.
Are there many licensed home-based daycares versus center-based options in Martinsburg, and what are the key differences for parents to consider?
In a smaller, rural community like Martinsburg, licensed group family daycares (home-based) are more common than large childcare centers. These home-based providers offer a more intimate, family-like setting, often with mixed-age groups and potentially more flexible hours, which can be crucial for parents working non-standard shifts in local agriculture, healthcare, or manufacturing. Center-based options are limited and may require travel to nearby Lowville. Key differences include: home-based care often has a smaller child-to-staff ratio, while centers may offer more structured educational curricula and on-site amenities. For Martinsburg parents, considering transportation, the provider's proximity to home or work, and the desired setting for their child are paramount.
What is the current waitlist situation for daycare in Martinsburg, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Due to the limited number of providers in Martinsburg and Lewis County, securing a daycare spot can be competitive, especially for infants. It is not uncommon for reputable licensed home daycares to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months. We strongly recommend that expecting parents or families planning a return to work begin their search during the second trimester of pregnancy. Contact multiple providers to get on their waitlists, and be prepared to check in periodically. Expanding your search to include providers in neighboring hamlets like Castorland or West Martinsburg can increase your options. Being flexible with your start date can also improve your chances.
What are some local resources or networks in Martinsburg to help me find and evaluate childcare options?
A primary local resource is the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCRR) agency for the North Country, which serves Lewis County. While not based in Martinsburg, they provide free referrals to licensed providers in your area and can guide you through the selection process. You can contact them via the Community Action Planning Council of Watertown. Additionally, connecting with other parents through the Martinsburg community Facebook page or local groups can provide invaluable word-of-mouth recommendations. For evaluating options, consider scheduling interviews and visits, asking for references from current families, and using the NYS OCFS inspection reports as mentioned in FAQ 2. The local school district may also have information about pre-K partnerships or before/after-school care options for older children.