The Best Daycare Centers in Woodmere, NY
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Woodmere. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Woodmere
The Goddard School of Woodmere
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Woodmere offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. Their play-based curriculum includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes individualized learning plans and maintains low student-to-teacher ratios for personalized attention.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Academy of Cedarhurst
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Located just minutes from Woodmere, Kiddie Academy of Cedarhurst provides comprehensive educational childcare with their Life Essentials® curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. The program includes technology integration, music and movement, Spanish language exposure, and hands-on learning activities. The facility features secure keypad entry, modern classrooms with observation windows, and dedicated playgrounds for different age groups. Certified teachers follow state-approved curricula and maintain detailed progress reports for each child. The academy emphasizes health and safety protocols with rigorous cleaning standards and nutritionally balanced meals.
Daycare Services:
The Learning Experience - Lynbrook
The Learning Experience
Serving the Five Towns area including Woodmere, The Learning Experience in Lynbrook offers a proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates phonics, mathematics, science, and social studies. Their enrichment programs include yoga, music, and philanthropy lessons. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, bright and engaging classrooms, and age-appropriate outdoor play spaces. Highly qualified early childhood educators provide individualized attention with small class sizes. The facility maintains excellent health and safety records with comprehensive background checks for all staff and regular safety drills.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Woodmere, NY
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Woodmere, NY, and what factors influence the price?
In Woodmere, full-time daycare for infants and toddlers typically ranges from $1,800 to $2,500 per month, while preschool programs for children ages 3-5 can range from $1,200 to $2,000 per month. These costs are influenced by several local factors, including the type of facility (home-based vs. center-based), the staff-to-child ratio, the inclusion of educational curricula (like Montessori or Reggio Emilia), and extra amenities such as organic meals, extended hours, or enrichment programs (e.g., music, language). Prices in Woodmere and the surrounding Five Towns area tend to be on the higher end of the Nassau County spectrum due to the community's demographics and operational costs. It's advisable to inquire about what is included in the tuition, as some centers may have additional fees for registration, supplies, or late pick-up.
How can I verify the licensing and inspection records for a daycare provider in Woodmere?
All licensed daycare providers in Woodmere must be registered with the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). Parents can verify a provider's license and view recent inspection reports by using the OCFS "Child Care Facility Search" tool online. Simply enter the provider's name or location. This public database will show the facility's license status, capacity, any violations cited, and the outcomes of inspections. For family daycare homes (caring for up to 6 children), ensure they are either registered or licensed. Given Woodmere's residential nature, many home-based providers operate here, so verification is a critical first step. You can also contact the OCFS Long Island Regional Office directly for assistance.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Woodmere, and when should I start my search?
Yes, waitlists are common for many sought-after daycare centers and preschools in Woodmere, especially for infant care slots. Due to high demand and limited availability, it is strongly recommended that parents begin their search and application process during pregnancy or at least 6 to 12 months before their desired start date. For preschool programs targeting a September start, applications often open the prior fall (e.g., apply in October/November for the following year). When touring facilities, always ask about their specific waitlist policy, including any deposit requirements and estimated timeline. Exploring options in neighboring communities like Cedarhurst, Hewlett, or Lawrence can provide more alternatives if Woodmere waitlists are full.
What are the options for backup or emergency childcare in the Woodmere area?
Finding reliable backup care in Woodmere can be challenging due to the prevalence of scheduled enrollments. Your primary options include: 1) Inquire if your regular daycare center offers a "drop-in" day service for enrolled families, sometimes at a premium fee. 2) Utilize licensed babysitting services or nanny agencies that serve the Five Towns area, which can provide vetted caregivers for short-term needs. 3) Network with other local parents through community groups (like on Facebook or Nextdoor) to share recommendations for trusted babysitters. 4) Consider regional backup care services, though fewer centers in Nassau County offer this compared to NYC. Planning ahead and having a list of 2-3 trusted backup providers is essential for Woodmere parents.
What local resources or community programs in Woodmere can help me evaluate and choose a childcare provider?
Woodmere parents have several valuable local resources. First, the **Woodmere Public Library** often hosts parent-child programs and can be a hub for community bulletin boards and recommendations. Second, connecting with the **Five Towns Community Center** can provide information on family services and potential program referrals. Third, online community groups like "Five Towns Moms" or "Woodmere, NY Community" on social media platforms are excellent for getting candid feedback and experiences from other parents. Additionally, you can contact the **Child Care Council of Nassau** (a non-profit resource and referral agency) for free, personalized counseling on choosing licensed care, understanding subsidies, and navigating local options. They are well-versed in the specifics of the Woodmere market.