Four young children sit side by side in front of a light-colored brick wall, smiling and looking at the camera. They wear colorful clothes, and one girl wears a pink flower headband.

About Us

Child Dev

SUNY Niagara Campus Child Development Center

The SUNY Niagara Campus Child Development Center is a high-quality child-care facility and early childhood education program serving children from 8 weeks to 5 years old. Conveniently located in the heart of the Sanborn Campus, the center offers easy access for parents to visit or observe their children throughout the day, supporting a strong connection between home, school, and family.

Founded in 1979 by a dedicated teaching staff member with a deep love and passion for children, the center has grown steadily over the years. It now operates as part of the Student Services division, continuing its commitment to nurturing the development of young children while supporting student-parents, faculty, staff, and community families.

The center is licensed by the New York State Office of Child and Family Services and adheres to the highest standards in health, safety, and early education. All staff members are qualified with degrees or certifications in early childhood education or related fields.

Each classroom follows a consistent daily routine and uses a structured learning curriculum that supports age-appropriate development and school readiness. Nutritious daily meals are provided for all children.

Space is limited, and early application is strongly advised. Parents may call or visit the center to inquire about availability and to be placed on the waiting list.

Admissions Policy

The Campus Child Development Center welcomes applications from SUNY Niagara students, faculty, staff, and members of the local community. Priority enrollment is given to student-parents to support their academic success, followed by faculty and staff families, and then community members as space permits.

Enrollment is offered on a rolling basis, depending on space and age group availability. Families are encouraged to apply early, as spots fill quickly.

The center admits children without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, disability, or family background, and is committed to providing an inclusive, respectful, and welcoming environment for all families.

A non-refundable registration fee is required:

  • $35 per semester
  • $60 per year (annual option available only in the Fall Semester)
  • $25 for summer session

Weekly tuition fees are based on a sliding scale according to the parents’ combined annual income. SUNY Niagara students may use financial aid, Department of Social Services (DSS), VESID, or private payment arrangements to cover child care costs.

Parent Involvement

The center firmly believes that parents are a child’s first and most important teachers. To strengthen the connection between home and school, the Child Development Center actively encourages meaningful parent involvement, including:

  • Open-door visitation – Parents are welcome to visit or observe their child at any time during operating hours.
  • Family-teacher conferences – Held regularly to discuss each child’s development, learning goals, and classroom experiences.
  • Parent workshops and events – Opportunities to learn more about child development and participate in center-wide celebrations and activities.
  • Volunteer opportunities – Parents are invited to volunteer in classrooms, on field trips, or during special events.

Through ongoing communication and collaboration, the center fosters a warm, supportive environment where families are valued partners in their child’s early learning journey.

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Fast Facts

The SUNY Niagara Campus Child Development Center offers quality child care and education for children 8 weeks to 5 years, with summer care up to age 12. Located in D-118, it is licensed by NYS and accredited by Quality Stars NY. Staff are trained in Early Childhood Education. Space is limited; early application is recommended.

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SUNY Niagara Learning Commons Photo during sunset with the sun reflecting off of the windows

Contact

  • Christine Duquin – Director of Child Development Center
  • Phone: 716-614-6245
  • Email: cduquin@niagaracc.suny.edu
  • Location: D-118
  • Regular Hours (Aug–May): Mon–Thu, 7:45 AM – 5:00 PM | Fri, 7:45 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Summer Hours (May–Aug): Mon–Thu, 7:45 AM – 4:00 PM
SUNY Niagara Learning Commons Photo during sunset with the sun reflecting off of the windows