The Best Daycare Centers in PJS, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in PJS. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in PJS
The Goddard School of Port Jefferson Station
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Port Jefferson Station is a highly-regarded early childhood education center known for its play-based learning approach and F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum. The school emphasizes whole-child development through structured activities that promote social, emotional, and academic growth. Staff are qualified with degrees in early childhood education and maintain low teacher-to-child ratios for personalized attention. The facility features secure, age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play areas, and robust safety protocols including keypad entry and regular cleanliness checks. Parent communication is prioritized through daily reports and an app, and the center offers nutritious meal programs. Its strong focus on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) activities and inclusion practices makes it a top choice for families in the area.
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Kiddie Academy of Miller Place
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Miller Place serves the Port Jefferson Station area with its Life Essentials® curriculum, which integrates character development, literacy, and hands-on learning into daily routines. The center is praised for its high educational standards, with teachers holding certifications in early childhood education and ongoing professional development. Safety is a cornerstone, featuring secured perimeters, CCTV monitoring, and strict health protocols. The facility includes modern classrooms, interactive technology, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Parents appreciate the consistent communication via the Academy Link® app and the focus on developmental milestones. The academy also provides organic meal options and flexible scheduling, making it ideal for working families seeking a nurturing environment.
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Bright Horizons at Stony Brook University
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Stony Brook University offers a research-based curriculum, The World at Their Fingertips®, which emphasizes language, cognitive, and physical development through exploratory play. The center is known for its highly qualified staff, many with advanced degrees, and low child-to-teacher ratios that ensure individualized care. Safety measures include biometric access, emergency preparedness drills, and hygienic facilities. The environment features stimulating learning centers, natural outdoor spaces, and resources from the university community. Parents value the strong parent-teacher partnerships, regular progress updates, and emphasis on diversity and inclusion. The center also provides healthy meals and accommodates various schedules, serving families in and around Port Jefferson Station with a commitment to excellence in early education.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in PJS, NY
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool for an infant or toddler in PJS, New York?
In PJS (Port Jefferson Station), New York, daycare costs are influenced by the high cost of living in Suffolk County. For a full-time infant (under 18 months), you can expect to pay between $1,600 and $2,200 per month at a licensed center. For toddlers (18 months to 3 years), costs typically range from $1,400 to $1,900 per month. Home-based family daycare is often more affordable, ranging from $1,200 to $1,700 for infants. Prices vary based on the program's amenities, staff-to-child ratios, and curriculum. It's important to note that these are pre-tax costs, and you may be eligible for dependent care FSAs or the New York State Child and Dependent Care Credit to help offset expenses.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in PJS, and when should I start looking?
Due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, waitlists for well-regarded daycare centers in the PJS area can be substantial. It is not uncommon for popular centers to have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer for infant rooms. We strongly recommend starting your search during your pregnancy, ideally by the second trimester. For a fall start (a common enrollment period), you should begin touring facilities and applying 9-12 months in advance. Be prepared to pay a non-refundable application or waitlist fee (typically $50-$150). It's also wise to get on multiple lists to increase your options.
What are the key New York State licensing requirements I should verify when choosing a daycare in PJS?
All legal childcare providers in PJS must be licensed or registered with the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). Key requirements you should confirm include: **Staff-to-Child Ratios** (e.g., 1:4 for infants under 18 months), **Maximum Group Sizes**, and **Staff Qualifications** (including background checks, fingerprinting, and mandated training in topics like SIDS, Shaken Baby Syndrome, and CPR/First Aid). Licensed centers and home-based programs are subject to regular, unannounced inspections. You can verify a provider's license status and review any inspection reports on the OCFS website. Always ask to see their current license during your tour.
Are there any local resources or programs in PJS to help parents find and evaluate childcare options?
Yes, a primary local resource is the **Child Care Council of Suffolk, Inc.**, which is the designated Child Care Resource and Referral (CCRR) agency for the county. They offer free, personalized referrals to licensed and registered childcare programs in the PJS area. Their counselors can help you understand your options, navigate the search process, and provide checklists for evaluating quality. They also have information on financial assistance programs like the New York State Child Care Subsidy. You can contact them via their website or hotline. Additionally, local parent groups on social media (like Facebook groups for Port Jefferson Station parents) are valuable for getting firsthand recommendations and experiences.
What are the common hours of operation for daycare centers in PJS, and how flexible are they for parents with non-traditional work schedules?
Most traditional daycare centers in PJS operate on a schedule similar to a standard workday, typically from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with some variation (e.g., 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM). However, options for evenings, overnight, or weekend care are extremely limited at centers. Parents with non-traditional schedules (e.g., healthcare workers, retail, or shift workers) often need to seek out licensed family daycare homes, which may offer more flexible or extended hours by individual arrangement. Some in-home nanny shares or hiring a private nanny are other common solutions in the area for flexibility. Be sure to discuss your specific scheduling needs upfront during interviews and tours, as policies on late pick-up fees (which can be steep, e.g., $1-2 per minute after closing) are strictly enforced.