The Best Daycare Centers in Port Jervis, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Port Jervis. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Port Jervis
Little Learners Childcare Center
Independent
Little Learners Childcare Center provides comprehensive early childhood education with a play-based curriculum that incorporates STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. The center features qualified early childhood educators with CPR and First Aid certification, secure entry systems, and age-appropriate learning environments. Their program emphasizes individualized attention with low student-teacher ratios, nutritious meal programs, and regular parent communication through digital platforms. The facility includes both indoor learning centers and outdoor play areas designed for different age groups.
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Kiddie Academy of Middletown
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Middletown serves the Port Jervis area with their proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, academic readiness, and physical wellness. The center features state-certified teachers, secure keypad entry, and modern facilities with dedicated learning centers for each age group. Their program includes technology integration, foreign language exposure, and regular developmental assessments. The academy maintains high safety standards with comprehensive background checks for staff, emergency preparedness protocols, and health screening procedures.
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Milford Early Learning Center
Independent
Milford Early Learning Center serves families in the Port Jervis tri-state area with a developmental approach that balances structured learning with creative exploration. The center employs experienced early childhood educators with bachelor's degrees in education or related fields, offering a comprehensive curriculum that includes literacy development, mathematics readiness, science exploration, and arts integration. Their facility features secure environments with surveillance systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated nap areas. The center emphasizes parent partnership with regular progress reports, family events, and open communication channels.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Port Jervis, NY
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Port Jervis, NY?
In Port Jervis, full-time daycare costs can vary significantly based on the type of provider. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $225 and $350 per week for an infant, and slightly less for a toddler. Licensed home-based daycare programs often offer more affordable rates, typically ranging from $150 to $250 per week. These costs are generally lower than the state average for New York, reflecting the area's lower cost of living. It's important to ask what is included in the weekly rate, such as meals, snacks, and curriculum materials. Some providers may also offer sibling discounts. Financial assistance may be available through the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) Child Care Subsidy program for eligible families.
How can I verify if a daycare provider in Port Jervis is properly licensed and check their inspection history?
All daycare centers and family daycare homes in New York State must be licensed or registered with the OCFS. To verify a provider's status and review their history, you can use the free, public **NYSCFS Child Care Facility Search** website. Simply enter "Port Jervis" or the provider's name. This tool will show you their license status, capacity, age ranges served, and any serious violations or complaints found during inspections over the past few years. You can also contact the OCFS Regional Office for the Hudson Valley region directly for information. Always visit a potential daycare in person and ask to see their current license, which should be posted.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Port Jervis, and when should I start looking?
Due to limited options in a smaller city like Port Jervis, popular daycare centers and highly-regarded home-based providers often have waitlists, especially for infant care. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin their search and get on waitlists **during the second trimester of pregnancy**. For toddler or preschool spots, starting your search 6-9 months in advance is advisable. When contacting providers, ask specifically about their waitlist process: if there's a fee, how often you should check in, and estimated availability. Exploring providers in nearby Orange County towns like Deerpark or Matamoras, PA (just across the river) can also provide additional options.
What types of childcare programs are most commonly available in Port Jervis?
Port Jervis offers several types of licensed childcare to fit different family needs. The most common options are: 1. **Licensed Group Family Day Care Homes:** These are home-based settings that can care for 7-12 children. They often provide a more intimate, family-like environment. 2. **Day Care Centers:** These are larger facilities, like the Port Jervis Community Development Agency's Head Start program or private centers, offering structured curriculum for more children. 3. **School-Age Child Care Programs:** Offered through the Port Jervis City School District or local organizations for before and after school care. 4. **Registered Family Day Care Homes:** Smaller home-based care for up to 6 children. There are also informal, legally exempt providers, but they are not regulated by the state.
What local resources or organizations in Port Jervis can help me find and choose quality childcare?
Your best local resource is the **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for Orange County**, which serves Port Jervis. They maintain updated lists of licensed providers, can help you understand quality indicators, and guide you through applying for subsidies. You can contact them online or by phone. Additionally, the **Port Jervis Free Library** often has community bulletin boards with provider information. For health and safety guidance, the **Orange County Department of Health** inspects daycare facilities for sanitary conditions. Finally, don't underestimate local parent networks on social media (like Port Jervis community Facebook groups) for personal recommendations and insights into provider reputations.