The Best Daycare Centers in Camden, NJ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Camden. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Camden
Kiddie Academy of Cherry Hill
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Cherry Hill provides comprehensive educational childcare with their proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, STEM, and social-emotional learning. The center features state-licensed teachers with early childhood education credentials, secure entry systems, and age-appropriate learning environments. Their program includes daily communication with parents through an app, nutritious meals, and extensive indoor/outdoor play areas. Serving the greater Camden area, they maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios and focus on preparing children for kindergarten readiness.
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The Goddard School of Cherry Hill
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Cherry Hill offers a play-based learning approach through their F.L.E.X.® Learning Program that balances academic preparation with social development. The facility features dedicated learning centers, secure monitored access, and outdoor playgrounds designed for different age groups. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and participate in ongoing professional development. The school serves families throughout Camden County with extended hours, enrichment programs including yoga and foreign language, and comprehensive safety protocols including background-checked staff.
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Bright Horizons at Collingswood
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Collingswood provides high-quality early education through their World at Their Fingertips® curriculum that emphasizes emergent learning, literacy development, and hands-on exploration. The center features modern classrooms with natural lighting, secure keypad entry systems, and certified teachers with early childhood credentials. Their program includes regular developmental assessments, family partnership approaches, and nutritious meals prepared on-site. Located just minutes from Camden, they offer flexible scheduling options and maintain NAEYC-accredited standards for excellence in early childhood education.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Camden, NJ
What are the licensing requirements for daycare centers in Camden, NJ, and how can I verify a provider's license?
In Camden, all childcare centers and family daycare homes must be licensed by the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Licensing. This includes rigorous standards for staff qualifications (including background checks and training in CPR/first aid), child-to-staff ratios, facility safety, and health protocols. To verify a provider's license, you can use the NJ DCF's "Child Care Search" tool online or contact the Office of Licensing directly. It's highly recommended to check this status, as it ensures the program meets the minimum state-mandated safety and quality standards. Unlicensed care is illegal for groups beyond a very small number of children.
Are there any subsidized or low-cost childcare assistance programs available for families in Camden?
Yes, there are key programs to help eligible Camden families. The primary program is New Jersey's Child Care Subsidy Program (often called "child care assistance"), administered through the Camden County Board of Social Services. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (e.g., employment, school, or training). Additionally, the federally funded Head Start and Early Head Start programs are available through local providers like the Camden City School District and community organizations. These programs offer comprehensive early childhood education, health, and nutrition services at no or very low cost to qualifying families. It's important to apply early, as waitlists can exist.
What is the average cost of full-time infant daycare in Camden, and how does it compare to the surrounding area?
The average cost for full-time infant daycare in Camden typically ranges from **$900 to $1,300 per month**. This is generally lower than the state average and significantly lower than in many surrounding suburbs like Cherry Hill or Haddonfield, where costs can exceed $1,500 per month. The variation within Camden depends on the type of center (non-profit vs. private), specific location, and the programs offered. Family daycare homes may offer a more affordable option, sometimes ranging from $700 to $1,000 monthly. Always inquire about what is included in the tuition (meals, diapers, curriculum).
What resources are available in Camden to help me find and evaluate quality childcare options?
Camden parents have several local resources. The **Camden County Department of Health and Human Services** can provide referrals. The most comprehensive resource is **Child Care Connections (CCCNJ)**, the state's designated Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for the region. They offer a free, personalized search for licensed providers, information on quality indicators (like Grow NJ Kids ratings, New Jersey's quality rating system), and guidance on what to look for during a visit. You can contact them online or by phone. Additionally, local community centers, places of worship, and the Camden City Public Library often have bulletin boards with information on local daycare providers.
How long are waitlists for quality daycare centers in Camden, and when should I start looking?
Waitlists for highly-regarded centers, especially for infant and toddler rooms, can be significant in Camden, often ranging from **3 to 9 months**, and sometimes longer. Popular centers affiliated with institutions or with high Grow NJ Kids ratings tend to have the longest lists. It is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists **during your pregnancy or at least 6 months before your needed start date**. When touring, always ask about the current waitlist length, the deposit policy to hold a spot, and how often they update the list. Exploring multiple options, including smaller family daycare homes which may have more immediate openings, is a practical strategy.
Childcare Insights for Camden
For parents in Camden, New Jersey, navigating the search for quality childcare often begins with a very practical question: what is the daycare cost near me? Understanding the landscape of childcare expenses in our city is the first step toward finding a solution that fits both your child’s needs and your family’s budget. In Camden, daycare costs can vary significantly based on several key factors, including the type of facility, the age of your child, and the specific neighborhood. On average, parents can expect to encounter weekly rates that range from approximately $180 to $300 for full-time care. Infant care is typically at the higher end of this spectrum, often costing more due to the required lower caregiver-to-child ratios, while rates for toddlers and preschoolers may be somewhat lower.
Several types of providers operate within the city, each with different cost structures. Licensed childcare centers, which often offer structured programs and multiple classrooms, might have set tuition rates. Family childcare homes, where care is provided in a provider’s residence, can sometimes offer more flexible and potentially lower-cost options, which is a valuable consideration for many Camden families. It’s also crucial to explore programs that participate in state assistance initiatives. New Jersey’s Child Care Subsidy Program, often referred to as NJ Cares for Kids, provides financial aid to eligible families, making quality care more accessible. Contacting the Camden County Board of Social Services or Child Care Resource and Referral agencies can provide personalized guidance on eligibility and application processes.
When evaluating costs, look beyond the weekly tuition. Many facilities have additional fees for registration, supplies, or meals, so be sure to ask for a complete breakdown of all potential charges. Some centers in Camden may offer sliding scale fees based on income, so don’t hesitate to inquire directly about financial policies. A practical tip is to visit several providers in person. This allows you to see the environment, meet the caregivers, and ask detailed questions about what the fee includes. Consider locations not just for convenience but for community; a daycare near your workplace, a trusted relative’s home, or within a supportive neighborhood network can provide invaluable peace of mind.
Remember, the most affordable option is not always the best fit, and the most expensive one doesn’t guarantee the highest quality. Trust your instincts about the warmth and safety of the environment. Finding the right childcare in Camden is about balancing cost with the critical factors of quality, reliability, and a nurturing atmosphere for your child’s early development. By taking the time to research, ask thorough questions, and utilize available local resources, you can make an informed decision that supports your family’s well-being right here in our community.