The Best Daycare Centers in Caldwell, NJ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Caldwell. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Caldwell
The Goddard School of Caldwell
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Caldwell offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with play-based development. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and social-emotional development in purpose-built classrooms. Features include secure entry systems, live streaming for parents, highly qualified teachers with early childhood education degrees, and nutritious meal programs. The school maintains low student-teacher ratios and offers extensive enrichment programs including yoga, music, and foreign language exposure.
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Kiddie Academy of Caldwell
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Caldwell provides comprehensive educational childcare with their Life Essentials® curriculum that integrates character development, technology, and hands-on learning. The academy features state-of-the-art security systems including electronic entry, comprehensive background checks for staff, and real-time parent communication through the mobile app. Their program emphasizes STEM learning, literacy development, and social skills with certified teachers who participate in ongoing professional development. Facilities include age-appropriate playgrounds, interactive whiteboards, and dedicated learning centers for different developmental stages.
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Montessori School of West Caldwell
Independent Montessori School
Montessori School of West Caldwell offers authentic Montessori education in a carefully prepared environment that serves Caldwell families. The school follows AMI (Association Montessori Internationale) standards with certified Montessori teachers guiding children through individualized learning paths. Their program emphasizes practical life skills, sensorial development, language acquisition, and mathematical thinking in mixed-age classrooms. The facility features natural materials, child-sized furniture, beautiful outdoor learning environments, and peaceful classroom atmospheres that encourage independence and intrinsic motivation. They maintain excellent teacher-child ratios and focus on whole-child development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Caldwell, NJ
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Caldwell, NJ?
In Caldwell, NJ, full-time daycare costs vary based on the type of center and the child's age. For infants (under 18 months), you can expect to pay between $1,400 and $1,800 per month at a licensed center. For toddlers (18 months to 3 years), costs typically range from $1,200 to $1,600 per month. Home-based daycare providers in Caldwell and surrounding Essex County may offer slightly lower rates, often between $900 and $1,300 monthly. These costs are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, and facility amenities. It's important to note that New Jersey is one of the more expensive states for childcare, and Caldwell's proximity to New York City can impact pricing. Many centers offer sibling discounts, and financial assistance may be available through New Jersey's Child Care Subsidy Program for eligible families.
How do I verify if a daycare or preschool in Caldwell is properly licensed and what should I look for during a tour?
All childcare centers in Caldwell must be licensed by the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Licensing. You can verify a facility's license status and view any inspection reports by using the "Child Care Search" tool on the NJ DCF website. During an in-person tour in Caldwell, look for: a current license posted visibly, clean and safe facilities with secure entry/exit points, age-appropriate toys and learning materials, and a low child-to-staff ratio (NJ requires 1:4 for infants, 1:6 for toddlers, and 1:10 for preschoolers). Ask about staff qualifications, background checks, emergency procedures, daily schedules, and their policy on sick children. Observe how caregivers interact with the children—engagement and warmth are key indicators of quality care.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Caldwell, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, many reputable daycare centers in Caldwell and the broader Essex County area have waitlists. It is highly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists at least 6 to 12 months before your needed start date, particularly for infant care. Some popular centers may have waitlists exceeding a year. To manage this, compile a list of 5-7 preferred centers, contact them to inquire about availability and waitlist procedures (including any fees), and get on multiple lists. Also, consider exploring licensed family childcare homes in Caldwell's residential neighborhoods, as they may have more immediate openings and offer a smaller, home-like setting.
What are the options for part-time or flexible childcare schedules in Caldwell?
Caldwell offers several options for parents not needing full-time, five-day-a-week care. Many centers provide part-time schedules, such as 2 or 3 days a week, though these spots can be limited and may not come with a proportional cost discount. Preschool programs for children ages 3-5 often operate on half-day schedules (e.g., 9 AM-12 PM). Another flexible option is utilizing licensed family daycare providers, who may offer more customizable hours, including before/after-school care for older children attending local schools like Washington Elementary or Grover Cleveland Middle School. Additionally, you can find drop-in care services and nanny shares coordinated through local parent networks on platforms like Facebook (e.g., "Caldwell Moms" groups) or apps like Sittercity, which are popular in the area.
Does Caldwell, NJ, offer any public preschool programs or financial assistance for childcare?
The Caldwell-West Caldwell Public School District offers a tuition-based preschool program for 3 and 4-year-olds, which operates on a part-day schedule. Availability is limited, and there is typically a lottery system for enrollment. For financial assistance, New Jersey's Child Care Subsidy Program (through WorkFirst NJ) helps eligible low- and moderate-income families pay for childcare. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (work, training, etc.). You can apply through the NJ Department of Human Services. Additionally, some Caldwell daycare centers may offer sliding scale fees or scholarships. It's also worth checking with local organizations, such as the Caldwell Community Center or churches, which may host affordable preschool or Mother's Day Out programs. Always inquire directly with providers about any unadvertised financial aid options.