GIVE THE CHILDREN SPACE TO LEARN AND GROW
Every great endeavor begins with a spark—a vision of what could be and a dream of making a difference
The story of Great Dreams Day Care is no exception, starting with a simple yet profound realization: the early years of a child's life are crucial in shaping their future, and every child deserves a nurturing environment to explore, learn, and grow.
A LEGACY OF CARE
At Great Dreams Daycare, we embark on a journey to provide exceptional care for children aged 3 months to 5 + years. We have been the best daycare for child growth on the Upper West Side, creating a safe and nurturing environment where children and families from diverse backgrounds find acceptance and love.
Rooted in traditional values yet embracing a modern approach, we create a safe and nurturing environment where children and families from diverse backgrounds find acceptance and love. Our whole team is committed to providing personalized attention and support, fostering an environment that feels like a true home away from home.
We are licensed through the New York State Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. All the staff are CRP certified. To continue the legacy of our predecessors, we have evolved Great Dreams Daycare to serve our community by paying homage to the classic quality with a modern approach.
What Drives Us
Our values guide everything we do
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide an environment where every child feels valued and encouraged. We are committed to cultivating each child's potential, supporting their growth with love and care, and partnering with families to create a community of learning.
Our Vision
Our vision is to be the best daycare center known for our commitment to excellence in early childhood education. We envision a world where every child experiences the joy of discovery, the thrill of learning, and the confidence to explore their unique potential.
Our Values
We are committed to creating a loving and supportive environment where each child can discover, learn, and excel to their fullest potential. We strive to build a strong foundation for a lifetime of growth and learning through personalized care, engaging educational activities, and strong parental involvement. We believe in the power of education to transform lives and communities, and we are dedicated to providing the best possible care for every child.
Meet Justina Diaz
The visionary founder and director of Great Dreams Daycare
Justina Diaz, the visionary founder and director of Great Dreams Daycare, brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to early childhood education. With a dual B.A. in Intensive English and Latin American, Caribbean, and U.S. Latino Studies, along with a M.A. in Public Policy focused on Education, she blends academic expertise with decades of hands-on experience.
Justina has dedicated her life to fostering growth and development in young minds, continuing the legacy of her grandmother, America Diaz, and mother, Gloria Diaz, who founded an early childhood education program from a small living room on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, hailed as "the best kept secret on the UWS."
Their vision went beyond establishing a daycare; they aimed to nurture young minds, empower families, and uplift communities. Under their guidance, Justina developed a deep understanding of early education 's transformative power, preparing her not just to continue their work, but to expand it, reaching children and families in broader, diverse neighborhoods.
With this strong foundation, she has evolved the program into an inclusive, innovative space where all children can thrive, regardless of their background. Justina embodies a deep commitment to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn and grow. She encourages exploration within a caring, supportive environment and designs programs that cater to each child's unique developmental needs.
Her vision for Great Dreams Daycare emphasizes cultivating an environment that empowers children to explore their potential and build strong foundations for their futures, setting them on their own paths in life. Her compassionate leadership inspires both the children in her care and the surrounding community, making Great Dreams Daycare a vibrant and unique place of learning and love.
Justina excels at balancing educational and emotional development, offering a curriculum that stimulates intellectual curiosity while promoting emotional well-being. Her passion for inclusivity ensures that every child feels valued and capable, preparing them for success not just academically, but in life.
Under her leadership, Great Dreams Daycare stands out as a nurturing, innovative, and dynamic learning environment where families can trust that their children receive the highest level of care and education. Today, it serves as a beacon of her vision, impacting communities far beyond what was once imagined, while remaining true to the core values of love, learning, and growth.
Our Philosophy
Inspired by child-centered learning approaches
Child-Led Learning
We believe children learn best when they're given the freedom to explore their interests, ask questions, and make discoveries at their own pace. Our educators observe, guide, and create rich learning opportunities based on each child's curiosity.
Emotional Safety
A secure, trusting relationship with caring adults is the foundation for all learning. We prioritize building strong connections with each child, creating an environment where they feel safe to explore, take risks, and express themselves.
Parent Partnership
Parents are a child's first and most important teachers. We value open communication, regular updates, and collaborative relationships with families. Together, we support each child's unique developmental journey.
Why Families Choose Great Dreams
Licensed & Safe
Fully licensed NYC daycare with comprehensive safety protocols
Warm Environment
A nurturing atmosphere where children feel loved and secure
Experienced Educators
Dedicated teachers passionate about early childhood development
Engaging Curriculum
Play-based learning that nurtures curiosity and creativity
Small Groups
Low teacher-to-child ratios ensuring personalized attention
Open Communication
Regular updates and strong partnership with families