The Best Daycare Centers in Fairfield, NJ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Fairfield. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Fairfield
The Goddard School of Fairfield
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Fairfield offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic, social, and emotional development. Their state-of-the-art facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and dedicated play areas. Highly qualified teachers implement play-based learning with STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) curriculum. The center maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and provides daily communication to parents about their child's activities and progress. Safety protocols include comprehensive background checks for staff, regular facility sanitization, and secure check-in/check-out procedures.
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Kiddie Academy of Fairfield
Kiddie Academy International
Kiddie Academy of Fairfield provides educational childcare through their Life Essentials® curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. The academy features modern classrooms with interactive technology, dedicated infant rooms with separate sleeping areas, and secure outdoor playgrounds. Their program includes Spanish language exposure, music and movement activities, and hands-on learning experiences. Certified teachers follow developmentally appropriate practices and maintain detailed progress reports for each child. The facility includes keypad entry security, comprehensive camera systems, and strict health and safety protocols including regular safety drills and health screenings.
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The Learning Experience - Fairfield
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Fairfield offers a comprehensive early education program with their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates phonics, mathematics, and social skills development. The center features bright, engaging classrooms, indoor gymnasium, and age-separated outdoor play spaces. Their enrichment programs include yoga, soccer, and dance instruction. The facility maintains high staff retention rates with ongoing professional development and requires all teachers to have early childhood education credentials. Security features include fingerprint entry systems, live streaming capabilities for parents, and rigorous safety protocols aligned with state licensing requirements.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Fairfield, NJ
What are the typical costs for full-time infant daycare in Fairfield, NJ, and what factors influence the price?
In Fairfield, NJ, full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $1,400 to $2,100 per month. The cost is influenced by several factors specific to the area. Center-based programs, especially those with national accreditation (like NAEYC) or specialized educational philosophies (Montessori), tend to be at the higher end of this range. In-home family daycare providers often offer more affordable rates, generally between $1,200 and $1,700 monthly. Additional costs to consider include registration fees (often $75-$150), supply fees, and potential charges for early drop-off or late pick-up. Prices can also vary based on the specific amenities offered, such as organic meals, live-streaming cameras, or extended hours. It's advisable to budget for these costs and inquire about any available sibling discounts.
How do I verify that a daycare or preschool in Fairfield is properly licensed and what are New Jersey's key regulations?
All childcare centers in New Jersey, including those in Fairfield, must be licensed by the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Licensing. You can verify a provider's license status and view any past inspection reports by using the state's online "Child Care Search" tool. Key state regulations for centers include staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants under 18 months), mandatory background checks for all employees, and required annual training in topics like CPR/First Aid and prevention of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Family daycare homes caring for up to 5 children are also registered and inspected. Always ask to see a provider's current license and don't hesitate to review their most recent inspection report for any violations or commendations.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Fairfield, and when should I start my search for an infant spot?
Yes, waitlists are very common for infant and toddler programs at highly-regarded daycare centers in Fairfield. Due to the low staff-to-child ratios required by law, infant spots are particularly limited. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin their search and get on waitlists during the second trimester of pregnancy, or 6-9 months before their desired start date. Some popular centers in the area have waitlists that extend 12-18 months. When touring, always ask about the current waitlist length, the deposit policy to hold a spot (which is often non-refundable), and how often they update families on their status. Starting early provides the most options and reduces last-minute stress.
What are some of the local resources or programs in Fairfield that can help me find and evaluate childcare options?
Fairfield parents have several valuable local resources. The primary resource is the **Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) agency for Essex County**, which serves the area. They maintain a database of licensed providers and offer free referral services. You can contact them online or by phone. Additionally, the **Fairfield Public Library** often hosts community events and may have bulletin boards with local provider information. For evaluations, beyond state inspection reports, parents heavily rely on local Facebook groups (e.g., "Fairfield, NJ Moms & Dads" or "Fairfield, NJ Community") for firsthand recommendations and reviews. The Township's Recreation Department may also offer preschool or before/after-school care programs for older children, which is a good starting point for information.
What options exist for backup or emergency childcare in Fairfield if my regular provider is closed or my child is mildly ill?
Finding backup care in Fairfield can be challenging but there are a few avenues to explore. Some local daycare centers offer occasional "drop-in" care slots for enrolled families or community members, but these are limited and must be booked in advance. A more flexible option is to use a reputable on-demand childcare service that operates in North Jersey, such as UrbanSitter or Care.com, where you can screen and book local babysitters for short-term needs. For mildly ill children who cannot attend their regular daycare due to exclusion policies (e.g., fever), most centers do not provide care. In this case, your best bet is to have a pre-arranged network of trusted family members, friends, or a nanny share backup. Planning for these situations is crucial, as last-minute options in a suburban setting like Fairfield are scarce.