The Best Daycare Centers in Saint Albans, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Saint Albans. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Saint Albans
Kiddie Academy of Rosedale
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Rosedale provides comprehensive educational childcare with a structured Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and social-emotional learning. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including keypad entry and surveillance cameras, with all teachers CPR and First Aid certified. Their age-appropriate classrooms include dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, toddler learning centers, and preschool preparatory programs. The facility offers nutritious meals and snacks through their included meal program, along with spacious outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, clean environment, and strong academic preparation.
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The Learning Experience - Springfield Gardens
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Springfield Gardens offers a proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates phonics, mathematics, and social skills development through hands-on activities. The center features bright, modern classrooms with interactive smart boards and dedicated learning centers for different developmental stages. Safety protocols include secure entry systems, regular safety drills, and comprehensive background checks for all staff. Their enrichment programs include music, yoga, and manners curriculum, with flexible scheduling options including full-time, part-time, and drop-in care. The center is noted for its highly qualified early childhood educators and strong parent communication through daily digital reports.
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Little Scholars Academy
Independent
Little Scholars Academy provides a nurturing educational environment with a focus on early literacy and school readiness. The center utilizes a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation, featuring small class sizes and low teacher-to-child ratios. Their curriculum includes Montessori-inspired activities, phonics instruction, and hands-on science exploration. The facility includes secure outdoor play areas, age-appropriate learning materials, and dedicated art and music rooms. Staff members hold early childhood education degrees and participate in ongoing professional development. Parents appreciate the individualized attention, regular progress updates, and strong sense of community within the center. The academy also offers enrichment programs including foreign language exposure and computer literacy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Saint Albans, NY
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Saint Albans, NY, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Saint Albans, the cost for full-time daycare or preschool can vary significantly based on the type of program. A licensed family daycare home typically ranges from $175 to $250 per week, while a larger daycare center or preschool may cost between $225 and $350 per week for full-time care. These rates are generally lower than the NYC borough averages but have been rising. For financial assistance, New York State's Child Care Subsidy Program is a primary resource, administered through the New York City Administration for Children's Services (ACS). Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (work, training, etc.). Additionally, local organizations like the Queens Community House may offer guidance and referrals. It's crucial to apply early, as subsidy waitlists can be long.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection history of a daycare provider in Saint Albans?
All legally operating daycare providers in New York State must be licensed or registered. For Saint Albans, you can verify a provider's status and review their inspection history through the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) website. Use their "Child Care Program Search" tool to look up both daycare centers and family daycare homes by name, zip code (11412, 11413 for Saint Albans), or address. This report will show the license/registration status, capacity, any enforcement actions, and detailed results of recent inspections, including violations and corrective actions. You can also call the OCFS regional office for Long Island and NYC at (631) 952-6423 for further assistance. Always visit in person and ask the provider for their license certificate.
Are there many daycare centers with extended hours or weekend care options in Saint Albans to accommodate non-traditional work schedules?
Finding daycare with extended hours (beyond 6 PM) or weekend care in Saint Albans can be challenging, as most centers operate on a standard 7 AM to 6 PM schedule, Monday through Friday. However, some licensed family daycare homes may offer more flexible hours to accommodate parents working shifts in healthcare, transportation, or service industries. Your best strategy is to specifically search for providers advertising "flexible hours" or "24-hour care" on platforms like Care.com or through local referrals from community groups on Facebook (e.g., "Saint Albans, Queens Parents"). Additionally, contacting the Queens Child Care Resource and Referral Agency (CCRR) can help identify any registered providers with atypical hours. Be prepared for a potentially higher weekly rate for these arrangements.
What is the current waitlist situation for infant daycare spots in Saint Albans, and when should I start looking?
Due to high demand and limited infant slots (as New York State mandates a lower staff-to-child ratio for children under 18 months), waitlists for infant daycare in Saint Albans are common and can be lengthy. Many reputable centers and family homes have waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin researching and contacting providers during their second trimester, if not earlier. When inquiring, ask specifically about the infant room waitlist process, any deposit requirements to hold a spot, and how often the list is updated. Exploring multiple options—including both centers and licensed home-based programs—increases your chances of securing care by your return-to-work date.
Are there any unique local resources or community organizations in Saint Albans that help parents find and evaluate childcare?
Yes, Saint Albans parents have several local resources. A key organization is the **Queens Community House (QCH)**, which operates a Family Resource Center and can provide child care referrals and support. The **Queens Library at Saint Albans** branch often hosts parenting workshops and may have community bulletin boards with daycare listings. For real-time parent advice, the **"Saint Albans, NY Community"** and **"Queens Parents"** Facebook groups are invaluable for getting personal recommendations and reviews of local providers. Furthermore, the **New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene** oversees daycare health regulations; their website provides guidance on what to look for during a visit. Tapping into these local networks is essential for finding trusted, community-vetted care.
Nearby Cities
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