Frequently asked questions
What do I need to bring on my child's first day?
Below is a list of items that are required for toddlers every day. Most of these items can be stored in the classroom.
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Diapers -
Wipes -
Diapering cream/powder as needed -
1 sippy cup -
Spare clothing including underwear and socks (in a labeled bag) -
Bookbag
Are the teachers certified?
How do I communicate with my child's teachers?
Parents have the option to download and use an app called Tadpoles Parent to view daily reports of how their child's day went. With the app, you can see the lesson plans, daily activities, meals, diaper changes, pictures, videos, and notes from the teachers. Parents can also send notes directly to the teachers through the app.
Do the children nap?
What type of activities will my child do? Is there a curriculum?
What are the program hours?
Our center is open from 6:30am - 6:30pm.
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School Day: 8:00am - 2:00pm -
Full Day: 8:00am - 5:30pm -
Extended AM: 6:30am - 5:30pm -
Extended PM: 8:00am - 6:30pm -
Extended Day: 6:30am - 6:30pm -
Before School: 6:30am - 8:00am -
After School: 2:00pm - 6:30pm
How many teachers are in the classroom?
There is one teacher for every 5 toddlers. Throughout the majority of the day, there are always at least two teachers present.
Are meals provided?
Absolutely! Academic Explorers receives funding from the New York State Child and Adult Care Food Program to provide free nutritious meals and snacks to all children enrolled in our program.
What are the tuition rates?
Does the center accept DSS or any other child care subsidy?
Yes! We accept most child care assistance programs such as DSS, ACS, AmeriCorps, 1199SEIU Funds, etc. If you have a different type of assistance program not listed, we may still accept it, just give us a call at (516) 378-5656.
How will the program assess my child's development, skills, and readiness?
Upon registration families are asked to complete an Ages and Stages Questionnaire. Within 45 days of enrollment, the child's teacher will also complete the same Questionnaire. This is our initial screening process to help us determine what developmental level your child is on when they begin in our program. This screening is done annually every September.
Does the center provide transportation?
We do offer transportation services. We transport children to and from their homes and/or elementary schools. Transportation is not guaranteed for all enrolled children because availability is limited. There is usually a waitlist and requests may only be granted based on the availability within our program's route and schedule.
What is the center's policy on sick children?
Our center is required to follow the policy's outlined in our State-approved Health Care Plan. According to our Health Care Plan, we can not provide care for children who:
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Are too ill to participate in the program activities -
Have illnesses resulting in a need for care greater than our staff can provide -
Have an acute change in behavior -
Have a high fever (according to specific degree measurements outlined in our plan) accompanied by other symptoms -
Have excessive diarrhea, vomiting, or abdominal pain -
Exihibit signs and symptoms of infectious diseases without a doctor's note approving them to be in our care