The Best Daycare Centers in Old Bethpage, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Old Bethpage. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Old Bethpage
The Goddard School of Plainview
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Plainview offers a comprehensive play-based learning curriculum that focuses on social, emotional, and academic development. Their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) encourages children to develop critical thinking skills through hands-on activities. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios. The curriculum includes STEAM learning, language development, and character education, with regular parent communication through daily reports and digital portfolios.
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Bright Horizons at Bethpage
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Bethpage provides a research-based curriculum that emphasizes emergent learning and individualized development. Their World at Their Fingertips® curriculum incorporates literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts through project-based learning. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, dedicated age-specific playgrounds, and nutritionally balanced meals prepared on-site. Teachers typically hold bachelor's degrees and receive ongoing professional development. The program includes Spanish language exposure, music enrichment, and regular developmental assessments shared with parents through the MyBrightDay™ communication app.
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The Learning Experience - Farmingdale
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Farmingdale offers a proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that combines academic preparation with social skills development. Their programs include early literacy, mathematics, and their signature philanthropy curriculum that teaches children about giving back. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including fingerprint entry, CCTV monitoring, and secured playgrounds. All lead teachers hold early childhood credentials and participate in continuous training. The facility includes interactive whiteboards, dedicated art and music rooms, and offers optional enrichment programs in yoga, soccer, and dance. Parent communication is maintained through regular updates and the PreciouStatus app.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Old Bethpage, NY
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Old Bethpage, NY, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Old Bethpage, NY, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $1,800 to $2,400 per month, while toddler and preschool programs generally cost between $1,400 and $1,900 per month. These costs are influenced by factors such as the center's accreditation, staff-to-child ratios, and included amenities like meals or enrichment programs. For financial assistance, parents can explore the New York State Child Care Subsidy Program, administered through the Nassau County Department of Social Services. Additionally, some local centers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees. It's also advisable to inquire about Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) through employers and check for any local scholarships occasionally offered by community organizations or houses of worship in the Bethpage area.
How long are waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Old Bethpage, and when should I start my search?
Waitlists for high-quality, licensed daycare centers in Old Bethpage can be substantial, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for infant care slots. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible, ideally during the first trimester of pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before your desired start date. Popular centers affiliated with local school districts or with high ratings on platforms like the NYS Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) licensee lookup tend to have the longest lists. When touring, always ask for the center's specific waitlist policy, including any non-refundable deposit required to hold a spot and how often you should check in to maintain your position.
What are the key state licensing requirements I should verify when choosing a daycare provider in Old Bethpage?
All daycare providers in Old Bethpage must be licensed or registered with the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). Key requirements to verify include: **Staff-to-Child Ratios** (e.g., 1:4 for infants under 18 months), **Background Checks** for all employees, **Health and Safety Training** including CPR/First Aid certification, and **Regular Facility Inspections** for fire safety and sanitation. You can look up a provider's license status, inspection reports, and any violations through the OCFS public website. Additionally, Nassau County may have local health department regulations. Always ask to see the current license during your tour and inquire about staff qualifications and ongoing professional development.
Are there part-time or flexible childcare options available in Old Bethpage for parents with non-traditional work schedules?
While traditional full-time, Monday-Friday programs are most common, Old Bethpage does offer some part-time and flexible options. Several local daycare centers and home-based programs provide 2, 3, or 5 half-day schedules, particularly for preschool-age children. For parents with shift work or irregular hours, finding standard center-based care is more challenging. Your best options are to seek out licensed family daycare homes, which may offer more flexible hours, or use reputable babysitting/nanny networks that serve the Nassau County area. Some centers in nearby communities may offer extended hours (e.g., 7 AM to 7 PM), but availability in Old Bethpage itself is limited. Exploring neighborhood parent groups on social media can also help connect you with local in-home providers willing to accommodate flexible schedules.
What resources are available in Old Bethpage to help me evaluate the quality and safety of potential daycare providers?
Parents in Old Bethpage have several valuable resources. First, use the **NYS OCFS Child Care Facility Search Tool** to view licensing status, capacity, and any enforcement history. Second, the **Child Care Council of Nassau** (located in Hicksville, serving the area) offers free referral services, parenting workshops, and guidance on what to look for during a visit. Third, check online reviews on platforms like Google and Yelp, but cross-reference them with official records. Fourth, connect with local parent communities, such as the "Old Bethpage/Bethpage Moms" Facebook group, for personal recommendations and experiences. Finally, always conduct an in-person tour, asking to see the kitchen, playground, and asking specific questions about their emergency procedures, sick policies, and curriculum.