ZIP code 12304 has 30 licensed childcare providers registered with NY state authorities — infant care, toddler programs, preschools, and school-age centers. All listings are sourced from official state licensing databases with active permits.

When comparing daycare centers near 12304, focus on: staff-to-child ratio, curriculum approach, safety inspection history, and whether the center accepts CCAP subsidies. Use our 30-point tour checklist before making a decision.

How to Choose Daycare Near 12304

Define your needs — age of child, full-time vs part-time, budget, schedule
Search and shortlist — all 30 licensed centers near 12304 are listed above
Call ahead — confirm openings, subsidy acceptance, and tour availability
Tour at least 3 centers — use our 30-point checklist
Verify license status — confirm on NY's official licensing portal

Related Resources

All Centers in NY → Childcare Subsidies → Tour Checklist (30 Q) → Cost Calculator → Safety Guide → Search All Centers →

Frequently Asked Questions — Daycare Near 12304

How many daycare centers are near ZIP code 12304?

There are 30 licensed childcare centers in and around ZIP 12304 in Schenectady, NY. All hold active state licenses sourced from official NY licensing databases.

What is the average cost of daycare near 12304?

Daycare costs near 12304 in NY: infant care $900–$1,800/month; toddler programs $700–$1,200/month; preschool $600–$1,100/month. CCAP subsidies can reduce costs by 50–90% for eligible families.

Are the daycare centers near 12304 licensed?

Yes — all 30 centers listed for ZIP 12304 hold active NY childcare licenses, sourced directly from the official state licensing database.

Does NY offer childcare subsidies near 12304?

NY participates in the federal CCDF program. Families near 12304 may qualify for CCAP assistance based on income. Visit childcare.gov or your local social services office to apply.

What age groups are served by daycares near 12304?

Centers near 12304 serve: infants (0–12 mo) — 0 centers; toddlers (1–3 yrs); preschool (3–5 yrs) — 3 programs; school-age (5+). Call ahead to confirm openings.

How do I choose the best daycare near 12304?

Visit at least 3 centers near 12304, check staff ratios, safety features, and curriculum. Use our free 30-point checklist at /checklist before enrolling.

What is the staff-to-child ratio at daycares near 12304?

NY requires: 1:4 for infants, 1:6 for toddlers, 1:10 for preschoolers. Always confirm the current ratio before enrolling at any center near 12304.

Are there Head Start programs near ZIP 12304?

Head Start offers free federally-funded programs for income-eligible families. Search 'Head Start' in our directory for 12304 or visit headstart.gov.

Can I tour a daycare near 12304 before enrolling?

Yes — and you should. Call ahead to schedule a tour at any center near 12304. Use our 30-point checklist at /checklist to evaluate each facility.

What documents do I need to enroll in daycare near 12304?

Typical requirements: birth certificate, immunization records, emergency contacts, custody docs if applicable, and proof of income for subsidies. Confirm with each center near 12304.

Need In-Home Childcare Near 12304?

Care.com has 1M+ background-checked sitters, nannies, and home daycare providers near you.

Find a Sitter on Care.com →

Last updated: May 11, 2026 · Sourced from NY official childcare licensing database · Privacy Policy

Helpful resources for parents choosing childcare

Apr 2, 2026

Daycare Teacher-to-Child Ratios: What the Law Requires and What Research Says

Most states require 1 teacher per 4 infants, but ratios vary widely. Here is what teacher-to-child ratios mean for your child's care quality, safety, and development.

Apr 1, 2026

How to Find Affordable Daycare Near You: 6 Strategies That Work

Childcare costs can consume 10-25% of a family's income. Here are 6 proven strategies to find quality daycare at a price that works — including subsidies, tax credits, and flexible scheduling.

Apr 1, 2026

Daycare Separation Anxiety: A Parent's Complete Transition Guide

Leaving your child at daycare for the first time is hard. Here's what to expect week by week, 5 drop-off strategies that actually work, and how to handle the parent guilt.

View All Articles