The Best Daycare Centers in Redwood, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Redwood. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Redwood
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Watertown serves the Redwood area with a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social development. Their play-based curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the facility features secure entry systems, daily cleanliness protocols, and age-appropriate learning environments. The school emphasizes individualized learning plans and regular parent communication through daily reports and parent-teacher conferences.
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Tiny Tots Learning Center
Independent
Tiny Tots Learning Center provides quality childcare for Redwood families with a focus on developmental milestones and school readiness. Their curriculum incorporates Creative Curriculum® elements with hands-on learning activities, literacy development, and social skills building. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and employs certified early childhood educators. Safety features include secured entry systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. Parents appreciate the warm, nurturing environment and the center's commitment to open communication and family involvement.
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Creative Beginnings Preschool & Childcare Center
Independent
Creative Beginnings serves the Redwood community with a child-centered approach that emphasizes creative expression and cognitive development. Their curriculum integrates arts, music, and movement with academic foundations in literacy and mathematics. The center features modern classrooms, outdoor play areas, and dedicated spaces for different age groups. Staff members hold early childhood certifications and participate in ongoing professional development. The center is known for its inclusive environment, nutritional meal program, and strong emphasis on building social-emotional skills through guided play and structured activities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Redwood, NY
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Redwood, NY, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Redwood, NY, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $1,100 to $1,400 per month, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging $950 to $1,200 per month. These costs are influenced by factors like the center's accreditation, staff-to-child ratios, and included amenities. For financial assistance, parents can apply for New York State's Child Care Subsidy Program through the Franklin County Department of Social Services, which serves the Redwood area. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (e.g., work, school). Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth inquiring directly.
How long are daycare waitlists in Redwood, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Due to limited providers in the Redwood area, waitlists for licensed daycare centers and highly-regarded home-based programs can be significant, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for infant care. For popular programs, it's not uncommon for parents to add their name to a list as soon as they know they are expecting. We recommend starting your search at least 9-12 months before your needed start date. For immediate or short-term needs, exploring registered family daycare homes or neighboring communities in Franklin County may offer more availability. Consistently following up with providers is key.
What specific New York State licensing requirements should I verify when choosing a daycare provider in Redwood?
All legal daycare providers in Redwood must be licensed or registered with the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). Key requirements to verify include: 1) **Staff-to-Child Ratios:** For children under 2 years, the ratio is 1:4; for 2-year-olds, it's 1:5; for 3-year-olds, it's 1:7. 2) **Background Checks:** All staff must pass comprehensive criminal background and State Central Register clearances. 3) **Health and Safety:** Providers must have emergency plans, conduct fire drills, and ensure safe sleep practices for infants. 4) **Training:** Staff must complete mandated training in topics like SIDS prevention and child abuse identification. You can verify a provider's license status and inspection history on the OCFS website.
Are there any unique childcare options in Redwood that cater to families with non-traditional work hours?
Traditional 9-to-5 daycare centers are the norm in Redwood, but options for evenings, weekends, or overnight care are extremely limited. For parents with shift work at local employers like the correctional facilities in nearby towns or the manufacturing sector, the best course of action is to seek out registered family daycare homes, as some individual providers may offer more flexible hours by arrangement. Another viable option is forming a small, private nanny share with one or two other local families, which can provide customized scheduling. Networking through local Facebook groups like "North Country Parents" is a good way to find providers or other parents with similar needs.
What resources are available in Redwood to help me evaluate and choose a quality daycare program?
The primary local resource is the Child Care Resource and Referral (CCRR) agency for the North Country region, which is operated by the Research Foundation for SUNY. They maintain a searchable database of licensed and registered providers in Franklin County, including Redwood. They can provide referrals, check for subsidy eligibility, and offer guidance on what to look for during a visit. Additionally, you should always schedule in-person tours to observe cleanliness, child engagement, and ask questions. Check for programs that participate in New York's QualitystarsNY, a voluntary quality rating system. For home-based care, ensure the provider is registered, not just "informal," to guarantee basic health and safety standards are met.