The Best Daycare Centers in Warwick, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Warwick. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Warwick
The Learning Experience - Florida
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in nearby Florida serves the Warwick community with a comprehensive early childhood education program featuring their proprietary L.E.A.P. curriculum. The center emphasizes both academic and social development through structured learning activities, play-based exploration, and character development programs. Features include state-of-the-art security systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and nutritious meal programs. Staff maintain early childhood education certifications and receive ongoing professional development. The center is known for its bright, clean facilities and strong parent communication through daily digital reports.
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Little Harvard
Little Harvard Preschool and Daycare
Little Harvard in Goshen serves Warwick families with an academically-focused early childhood program that balances structured learning with creative exploration. The curriculum incorporates literacy development, STEM activities, and social-emotional learning. Facilities include dedicated infant rooms, spacious classrooms with learning centers, and secure outdoor play areas. The center maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and employs educators with degrees in early childhood education. Parents consistently praise the warm, nurturing environment and the center's commitment to preparing children for elementary school success.
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Chester Academy of the Arts
Chester Academy
Chester Academy of the Arts provides comprehensive childcare services to Warwick-area families with a unique focus on integrating arts education into their developmentally appropriate curriculum. The program includes music, movement, visual arts, and dramatic play alongside traditional academic preparation. The center features modern security systems, allergy-aware meal programs, and extensive outdoor learning environments. Staff qualifications include NYS teaching certifications and specialized training in early childhood development. The academy is recognized for its inclusive environment and strong community partnerships, with many families commuting from Warwick for their arts-integrated approach.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Warwick, NY
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Warwick, NY, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Warwick, NY, full-time daycare for an infant can range from approximately $1,200 to $1,600 per month, while toddler and preschool programs typically cost between $1,000 and $1,400 per month. These costs can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum (e.g., Montessori), and staff-to-child ratios. For financial assistance, parents can apply for the New York State Child Care Subsidy Program through the Orange County Department of Social Services. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's also worth checking with employers in the area, as some may offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).
How long are daycare waitlists in Warwick, and what can I do to secure a spot for my infant?
Due to high demand and limited infant care slots, waitlists at licensed daycare centers in Warwick can often be 6 to 12 months long, especially for infants under 18 months. To improve your chances, it's recommended to begin your search and get on multiple waitlists as early as possible during pregnancy. Consider expanding your search to nearby towns like Florida, NY, or Greenwood Lake. Additionally, explore licensed family daycare homes, which may have shorter waitlists and offer a smaller, home-like setting. Always follow up with centers every few months to express continued interest.
What are the licensing requirements for childcare providers in Warwick, and how can I verify a provider's compliance?
All childcare providers in Warwick must be licensed or registered by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). This includes rigorous background checks for staff, health and safety inspections, required training in CPR/First Aid and SIDS prevention, and adherence to strict staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants). To verify a provider's status and view any past violations, parents can use the free OCFS "Child Care Search" website or call the OCFS regional office in Newburgh. Always ask to see a provider's current license during your tour.
Are there seasonal or summer-specific childcare programs available for school-age children in Warwick?
Yes, Warwick offers several excellent options for school-age childcare during summer and school breaks. The Warwick Valley Community Center runs a popular, well-established summer day camp program with weekly themes, field trips, and outdoor activities. The Town of Warwick Parks and Recreation Department also offers various summer camps and enrichment programs. For more consistent after-school care during the school year, the local school district (Warwick Valley Central School District) may partner with the YMCA or other organizations to provide on-site programs. Registration for these programs often opens in early spring and fills quickly.
What should I look for when touring a daycare facility in Warwick, and are there any local resources to help with my search?
When touring a facility in Warwick, look beyond the basics: observe how staff interact with children, check for cleanliness and safety (secured entrances, covered electrical outlets), ask about their outdoor play policy and access to safe outdoor spaces, and inquire about their sick policy and staff turnover rates. For local search help, utilize the **Child Care Council of Orange County**, a non-profit resource and referral agency. They maintain a database of licensed providers, offer free personalized searches, and can provide guidance on what questions to ask. They are an invaluable, free resource for Warwick parents navigating the childcare landscape.