The Best Daycare Centers in Burlington, NJ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Burlington. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Burlington
The Goddard School of Mount Laurel
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Mount Laurel offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their state-licensed teachers implement developmentally appropriate curriculum focusing on literacy, STEM, social-emotional development, and physical coordination. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor playgrounds, and enrichment programs including yoga, music, and Spanish. With low student-teacher ratios and ongoing staff development, this center maintains exceptional safety standards and comprehensive communication with parents through daily reports and regular updates.
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Kiddie Academy of Mount Laurel
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Mount Laurel provides comprehensive educational childcare through their Life Essentials® curriculum that integrates character development, technology, and hands-on learning. The academy features purpose-built classrooms with interactive whiteboards, dedicated infant rooms with individualized care plans, and secure outdoor learning environments. Their highly qualified staff maintains New Jersey state certifications with ongoing professional development in early childhood education. The center emphasizes health and safety with rigorous cleaning protocols, secured access systems, and nutritious meal programs. Parent engagement is supported through real-time updates via the Kiddie Academy mobile app and regular parent-teacher conferences.
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The Learning Experience - Willingboro
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Willingboro offers a sophisticated early education approach with their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates phonics, mathematics, science, and social studies. The center features bright, modern classrooms, indoor gymnasium, and secure outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. Their enrichment programs include soccer, dance, and yoga taught by specialized instructors. The highly-trained teaching staff maintains small class sizes and focuses on individualized learning paths. Safety is paramount with electronic check-in systems, comprehensive background checks for staff, and regular safety drills. The center also emphasizes philanthropy through their philanthropy curriculum that teaches children the importance of giving back.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Burlington, NJ
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare in Burlington, NJ, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Burlington, NJ, the cost of full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $1,100 to $1,500 per month, while toddler care is slightly lower, averaging $900 to $1,300 per month. These rates can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum, and staff-to-child ratios. For financial assistance, Burlington County residents can apply for New Jersey's Child Care Subsidy Program (often called "child care assistance") through the New Jersey Department of Human Services. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work or school requirements. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts, so it's always worth asking directly.
How do I verify a daycare center's license and inspection history in Burlington, NJ?
All licensed childcare centers in New Jersey are regulated by the Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Licensing. You can verify a center's license status and view its inspection reports online through the NJ DCF "Child Care Search" portal. Simply enter the center's name or location. This report will show the license status, capacity, any cited violations, and the date of the last inspection. It's a crucial step for parents in Burlington to ensure the facility meets state standards for safety, staff qualifications, and program quality. You can also contact the DCF's Office of Licensing directly for information.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Burlington, and how early should I start looking?
Yes, waitlists are common for many daycare centers in Burlington, especially for infant rooms, which have the strictest staff-to-child ratios. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin their search and get on waitlists during the second trimester of pregnancy, or at least 6-9 months before their needed start date. For toddler or preschool spots, starting 3-6 months in advance is advisable. Some highly sought-after centers in the area may have waitlists exceeding a year. When touring facilities, always ask about their specific waitlist process, any associated fees, and how often they update families on their position.
What are the main types of childcare options available to parents in Burlington, NJ?
Parents in Burlington have several options: Licensed Child Care Centers are facility-based and serve larger groups, often with structured educational programs. Family Child Care Homes are licensed providers caring for children in their own residence, offering a more home-like setting with smaller groups. Preschools typically focus on ages 3-5 with a stronger academic or developmental curriculum. There are also before/after-school programs for school-age children, often run through the Burlington City School District or local community organizations. Your choice will depend on your child's age, your schedule, budget, and preferred care environment.
What questions should I specifically ask when touring a daycare in Burlington, given New Jersey's regulations?
Beyond general questions, ask Burlington-specific and NJ regulation-focused questions: 1) "What is your staff's current certification in CPR/First Aid and your ongoing training requirements?" (NJ mandates this). 2) "Can you explain your sick child policy and how it aligns with NJ's exclusion guidelines?" 3) "What is your plan for emergency situations, and have you coordinated with local Burlington County emergency services?" 4) "How do you handle outdoor playtime, and what is your playground safety protocol?" 5) "What is your staff turnover rate?" (High turnover can impact care quality). Also, ask about their New Jersey-specific curriculum guidelines, such as how they incorporate the state's Early Learning Standards.
Childcare Insights for Burlington
Finding quality childcare with current openings can feel like a pressing challenge for parents in Burlington, New Jersey. The search for "daycares near me with openings" is more than just a Google query; it's about securing a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment for your child close to home. The good news is that Burlington and its surrounding areas in Burlington County offer a variety of options, from established centers to family-run homes, and persistence paired with a local strategy can lead you to the right spot.
Begin your search by tapping into the rich network of local resources unique to our area. The official New Jersey Child Care Search tool, managed by the state's Department of Children and Families, is an essential starting point. It allows you to filter by Burlington, NJ, and see licensed providers, though confirming openings will require a direct call. Don't overlook the power of community connections. Burlington County Library branches often have community bulletin boards, and local Facebook groups, such as those for Burlington City or Burlington Township parents, can be goldmines for personal recommendations and leads on unexpected openings. A simple post asking for experiences with local daycares can yield heartfelt, honest feedback from neighbors who understand the specific dynamics of our community.
When you identify potential centers with openings, your vetting process should include both universal standards and local considerations. Always verify the provider’s license status and inspection history through New Jersey’s public records. During tours, ask specific questions about their curriculum and how it might incorporate local elements; perhaps a visit to the Burlington County Historical Society or stories about the Delaware River. Given Burlington’s mix of suburban and more historic residential areas, pay close attention to drop-off and pick-up logistics, parking availability, and the safety of the surrounding neighborhood. Inquire about their policies for school closures, as many centers follow the Burlington Township or Burlington City school district calendars, which is crucial for planning your own work schedule.
Finally, trust your instincts during visits. A daycare with an opening is not an opportunity if the environment doesn’t feel right. Observe how caregivers interact with the children—is the atmosphere warm and engaged? Look for evidence of structured play and learning appropriate for your child’s age. Be prepared to move quickly once you find a suitable program, as openings in highly-regarded centers in our area can fill rapidly. Securing childcare in Burlington is about finding a partnership that supports your family’s rhythm. With a focused local approach, you can transform the anxiety of the search into the confidence of having found a caring extension of your home, right here in our community.
Nearby Cities
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