The Best Daycare Centers in Silver Lake, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Silver Lake. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Silver Lake
The Goddard School of Perry
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Perry offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Their state-licensed teachers implement play-based learning through structured curriculum including STEAM activities, language arts, and creative arts. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and bright, modern classrooms. What sets this center apart is their focus on individual child development with regular progress reports, nutritious meal programs, and extended hours to accommodate working families in the Silver Lake region.
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Kiddie Academy of Batavia
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Batavia provides comprehensive educational childcare with their Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, and STEM learning. The center features highly qualified teachers with early childhood education credentials and maintains low student-teacher ratios. Their secure facility includes monitored access, outdoor learning environments, and technology-integrated classrooms. The academy stands out for their community connections, regular parent communication through mobile app updates, and commitment to preparing children for kindergarten success while serving families throughout Wyoming County including Silver Lake.
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Imagination Station Early Learning Center
Independent
Imagination Station Early Learning Center offers a nurturing environment with a balanced approach to early childhood education, combining structured learning with creative exploration. Their curriculum emphasizes literacy development, social skills, and hands-on learning experiences through centers-based classrooms. The center features experienced educators with ongoing professional development, secure facilities with camera monitoring, and natural outdoor play spaces. What makes this center exceptional is their family-oriented approach, inclusive atmosphere, and strong emphasis on building foundational skills through play-based learning, serving Silver Lake and surrounding Wyoming County communities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Silver Lake, NY
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Silver Lake, NY, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Silver Lake, NY, full-time daycare for an infant or toddler typically ranges from $1,100 to $1,400 per month, while preschool programs for children aged 3-5 may cost between $900 and $1,200 monthly. These costs are influenced by factors like program type (home-based vs. center-based), staff-to-child ratios, and included amenities. For financial assistance, Wyoming County, where Silver Lake is located, administers the New York State Child Care Subsidy Program. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (work, training, etc.). Parents should contact the Wyoming County Department of Social Services directly to apply. Additionally, some local providers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking during tours.
How do I verify that a daycare provider in Silver Lake is properly licensed and what specific New York State regulations should I be aware of?
All licensed or registered childcare programs in New York State are overseen by the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). You can verify a provider's license, view inspection reports, and check for any violations by using the free, public "Child Care Program Search" tool on the OCFS website. Key regulations for Silver Lake providers include: a staff-to-child ratio of 1:4 for infants (under 18 months), 1:5 for toddlers (18-36 months), and 1:7 for preschool-aged children (3-4 years). All staff must pass background checks and complete mandated training in topics like Shaken Baby Syndrome and Safe Sleep for infants. Home-based "family daycares" (caring for up to 6 children) are registered, while larger centers are licensed.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Silver Lake, and when should I start my search for an infant spot?
Due to limited options in a smaller community like Silver Lake, waitlists for infant care, in particular, can be long—often 6 to 12 months. It is highly recommended that expecting parents begin researching and contacting providers early in the second trimester of pregnancy. For preschool programs with a September start, initiating inquiries the prior winter (January-February) is advisable. When contacting providers, ask directly about their current waitlist length, any non-refundable deposit to hold a spot, and how often the list is updated. Being flexible with your start date can sometimes improve your chances of securing a spot sooner.
What are the main types of childcare options available specifically within the Silver Lake area?
Parents in Silver Lake have several local options, though the selection is more limited than in larger cities. The primary types include: 1) **Licensed Group Family Daycare Homes**: Often run in a provider's residence, these can care for 7-12 children and are a common, home-like setting in the area. 2) **Registered Family Daycare Homes**: Smaller, caring for up to 6 children in a residential setting. 3) **Childcare Centers**: There are a few licensed centers, potentially affiliated with local churches or community organizations, offering more structured programs. 4) **School-Based Pre-K**: Wyoming County may offer Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) for 4-year-olds through the local school district, which is typically free but operates on a school-day schedule. 5) **In-Home Care (Nannies/Babysitters)**: Less formal but an option; parents are responsible for verifying background and meeting employer obligations.
Beyond basic care, what enrichment or educational programs are commonly offered by daycares and preschools in the Silver Lake community?
Many providers in the Silver Lake area incorporate educational frameworks aligned with New York State's Early Learning Guidelines. Common enrichments include outdoor play and nature exploration, leveraging the region's natural setting near the lake and parks. Some programs may offer introductory music and movement, basic art projects, and early literacy activities. Given the agricultural surroundings of Wyoming County, themes about animals, plants, and seasons are often woven into the curriculum. For more structured preschool curricula (like Creative Curriculum or Montessori-inspired methods), parents may need to look at centers in nearby larger towns like Warsaw or Perry, which some Silver Lake families commute to for care. Always ask providers for a sample daily schedule and their educational philosophy during a visit.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Silver Lake: