The Best Daycare Centers in Delaware, NJ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Delaware. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Delaware
The Learning Experience - Franklin
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Franklin serves the Delaware area with a comprehensive early childhood education program featuring their proprietary L.E.A.P. curriculum. The center focuses on academic, physical, and social development through age-appropriate activities and specialized enrichment programs. Features include secure facilities with keypad entry, certified early childhood educators, and a structured daily schedule that balances learning and play. Their Bubbles U music program and philanthropy-focused curriculum help children develop empathy and creativity alongside academic skills.
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Kiddie Academy of Sparta
Kiddie Academy
Kiddie Academy of Sparta provides educational childcare serving the Delaware region with their Life Essentials® curriculum that emphasizes character development, literacy, and STEM learning. The facility features secure access systems, nutritious meal programs, and age-appropriate learning environments. Staff includes degreed early childhood educators with ongoing professional development. The academy focuses on preparing children for kindergarten through structured learning centers while maintaining low student-teacher ratios and comprehensive safety protocols.
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Goddard School of Newton
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Newton serves Delaware and surrounding communities with a play-based learning approach grounded in academic research. Their F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program encourages children to explore and discover through hands-on activities. The school features secure facilities with surveillance systems, highly qualified teachers with early childhood education degrees, and comprehensive safety measures. The curriculum focuses on social-emotional development, literacy, and problem-solving skills while maintaining small class sizes and individualized attention.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Delaware, NJ
What are the licensing requirements for daycare providers in Delaware, NJ, and how can I verify a facility is properly licensed?
In New Jersey, all childcare centers serving six or more children must be licensed by the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Licensing. This includes centers in Delaware (the township in Warren County). Licensing ensures facilities meet strict standards for health, safety, staff qualifications (including background checks and training in CPR/first aid), child-to-staff ratios, and physical environment. Family childcare homes serving up to five children may be registered. You can verify a provider's license status and view any inspection reports or violations through the NJ DCF's "Child Care Search" tool on their official website. Always ask to see the current license during a tour.
What is the average cost of full-time infant daycare in Delaware, NJ, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Delaware, NJ, and the surrounding Warren County area, full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $1,100 to $1,500 per month, though prices can vary based on the center's amenities and program structure. This is generally lower than the state average for more urban counties. For financial assistance, New Jersey's Child Care Subsidy Program (often called "child care assistance") helps eligible low- and moderate-income families. You apply through the NJ Department of Human Services. Additionally, some local centers may offer sliding scale fees or sibling discounts. It's also worth checking with your employer about Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).
How long are typical waitlists for daycare centers in Delaware, NJ, and when should I start looking?
Due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants and toddlers, waitlists in Delaware, NJ, and nearby towns like Hackettstown or Washington can be 6 to 12 months long. For infant care, it is strongly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists during your second trimester of pregnancy. Many popular centers in this semi-rural community have limited capacity, so early planning is crucial. When contacting centers, ask specifically about their waitlist process: if there's a fee, how often you need to check in, and if they offer priority for siblings of current enrollees.
What are the options for part-time or flexible childcare schedules in Delaware, NJ, compared to full-time programs?
While full-time, Monday-Friday programs are most common, part-time options in Delaware, NJ, can be more limited but do exist. Some centers offer 2, 3, or 4-day-a-week schedules, often at a prorated cost. Another popular flexible option in the area is licensed family childcare homes, which may offer more customizable hours. For occasional or backup care, you might explore networks like Care.com for local in-home providers or consider nanny shares with other families in the township. Preschool programs for children ages 3-5 often have half-day options, but these are not typically full childcare solutions for working parents.
Are there any unique seasonal or agricultural considerations for childcare in Delaware, NJ, given its location in Warren County?
Yes, Delaware Township's rural and agricultural character can influence childcare. Some family daycare providers or smaller centers may adjust hours slightly during peak local farming seasons. More notably, many childcare programs incorporate the natural environment into their curriculum, with outdoor play and learning being a significant focus. When choosing a center, inquire about their outdoor space and policies for all-weather play. Additionally, some programs may partner with local farms for visits or activities. It's also important to consider transportation, as centers may be more spread out, and some may not provide transportation services common in more suburban districts.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Delaware: