Is it important to seek a licensed daycare for your child? The answer is ‘yes’. Since young children are still developing and in a delicate age of so many “firsts”, we can’t stress enough how important choosing a licensed center is.
Let us share why daycare licensing matters so much for families in Elmsford, NY (or anywhere).
What Does a Licensed Daycare Mean for You?
A licensed daycare center has been inspected and approved by the recognized state authority. It means the daycare has met strict safety and quality standards that protect your children.
At Discovery Village, we are licensed by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services. We go through regular inspections where officials check everything from our playground equipment to our teacher qualifications.
Safety Standards You Can Trust
Licensed daycare centers must follow specific rules about everything from child-to-teacher ratios to emergency procedures. These aren’t suggestions. They’re requirements daycare centers must meet to keep the doors open.
Trained and Background-Checked Staff
All our teachers go through extensive background checks and must meet education requirements. This means you do not just trust anyone with your child.
Every person who works with your kids has been vetted by the state. That’s not something you get with unlicensed care, even if the provider seems nice.
Health and Nutrition Standards
Our licensed daycare center in Elmsford, NY must follow strict guidelines about meal preparation, illness policies, and medication administration. We have protocols for everything from diaper changing to handling food allergies.
Educational Requirements
Being licensed means we meet standards for age-appropriate activities and learning environments. Our curriculum isn’t random but designed to support your child’s development.
We’re required to have qualified teachers who understand child development. Your 2-year-old isn’t getting babysitting. They’re getting a quality early childhood education.
Why Licensed Daycare Matters for Elmsford Families
Our Westchester area has high standards, and licensed centers here often exceed state minimums.
At our daycare, that is also a Member of the Child Care Council of Westchester, you’re getting quality care that:
Matches your community’s expectations.
Stay updated with best early childhood care practices.
Licensing is your guarantee that we take our responsibility to your family seriously. It means we’re accountable, trained, and held to standards that put your child’s wellbeing first.
When it is about your kid’s learning, safety and development, licensed daycare is worth every dollar for the peace of mind it provides.
Is Licensing Enough
At Discovery Village, we also participate in New York’s Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS) for early childhood programs, through which we systematically engage in continuous quality improvement above and beyond what is required by licensing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I verify if a daycare center is actually licensed?
You can check the New York State Office of Children and Family Services website or ask to see the license certificate displayed at the center. Licensed centers are required to post their license visibly.
Are licensed daycare centers more expensive than unlicensed ones?
Often yes. At a licensed daycare, you’re paying for trained staff, safety standards, insurance, and regulatory compliance. The extra cost is worth it for the protection and quality you receive.
How often are licensed daycare centers inspected?
Initial licensing requires complete inspection, which is followed by regular announced and unannounced visits. The frequency depends on the center’s compliance history and any complaints received. Our licensed daycare is also regularly visited by officials for inspection.
