Best NYC Day Care Programs
It's not easy to leave the care and education of your little ones with strangers. It helps when you know that the caregivers are trustworthy and attentive. To aid in your hunt, CBS New York is sharing some of the best local day care centers.
Trinity Parish Pre-School and Nursery
74 Trinity Place / 68 Trinity Place
New York, NY 10006
(212) 602-0829
www.trinitywallstreet.org/faith/preschool/
Originally founded in 1982, Trinity caters to kids who are ages six months to five years. Based in the financial district, Trinity provides a full time program with a part time enrollment option depending on availability. Extended care is also available and tuition varies based upon your personal needs. Parents especially praise the mixture of formal instruction and free play (which can be lacking in other more preparatory styled centers).
Chick Peas Child Care
451 Seventh Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11215
(718) 788-6604
www.chickpeas.org
Established in 1981, this is a parent-run cooperative preschool based in Park Slope. Parents sing the praises of their child-centered curriculum. If you want a lot of structure in your child's day, this might not be the perfect fit. However, if you wish for your young child to primarily learn and develop through play with adequate structure, don't delay in setting up a meeting. For parents with pre-kindergarten aged students, it is also good to note that Chick Peas currently offers a (discounted) universal pre-k program.
Solid Foundations Preschool
2333 Matthews Avenue
Bronx, NY 10467
(347) 202-9793
www.sfpreschool.webs.com
Many of the Bronx-based daycare centers are small gems that need to be uncovered. Solid Foundations is one such jewel. An affordable full time care option, this center accepts children as young as 18 months. Parents of kids who have "graduated" the program tend to praise the fact that their kids were (more than) ready for Kindergarten.
Rainbowland Nursery School
39-60 54th Street
Woodside, NY 11377
(718) 899-7590
www.rainbowlandschool.com
Rainbowland's Woodside location gets high marks from parents. The teachers are known for being friendly, responsive and skilled. There are minor complaints that the playground is not especially big, but that's more of a NYC problem overall. Overall though, parents are pleased with the early education and attentive care that their kids receive at this center. Best of all, parents of pre-k eligible children will be glad to know that Rainbowland offers a free 2 1/2 Hour Universal pre-k program.
