The Best Daycare Centers in Fort Lee, NJ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Fort Lee. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Fort Lee
The Goddard School of Fort Lee
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Fort Lee offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum that balances academic learning with creative play. Their state-of-the-art facility features secure entry systems, bright classrooms, and age-appropriate learning centers. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The program emphasizes STEAM learning, language development, and social-emotional growth through hands-on activities. Parents appreciate the comprehensive communication system including daily reports and regular teacher conferences.
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Kiddie Academy of Fort Lee
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Fort Lee provides comprehensive educational childcare with their proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, and STEM education. The center features modern security systems including keypad entry and surveillance cameras. Their highly qualified staff maintains low teacher-to-child ratios and implements developmentally appropriate practices. The program includes nutritious meals, outdoor play areas, and technology-integrated learning. Parents consistently praise the warm, nurturing environment and the center's commitment to preparing children for kindergarten success through structured learning activities and social development.
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The Learning Experience - Edgewater
The Learning Experience
Located just minutes from Fort Lee in Edgewater, The Learning Experience serves many Fort Lee families with their innovative L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum. The center features bright, modern classrooms, secure facilities with electronic access control, and age-appropriate outdoor play spaces. Their specialized programs include early literacy, mathematics, science, and their signature philanthropy curriculum that teaches children the importance of giving back. The highly trained teaching staff focuses on individualized learning plans and maintains excellent communication with parents through digital updates and regular progress reports.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Fort Lee, NJ
What is the average cost of full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Fort Lee, NJ, and are there any financial assistance programs available locally?
In Fort Lee, the average cost for full-time infant or toddler daycare typically ranges from $1,600 to $2,200 per month, depending on the center's facilities, curriculum, and staff-to-child ratios. This is generally higher than the New Jersey state average due to Fort Lee's proximity to New York City and its high cost of living. For financial assistance, parents can apply for New Jersey's Child Care Subsidy Program (often called "child care assistance") through the state's Department of Human Services. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (work, school, etc.). Additionally, some local centers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees. It's also worth checking if your employer offers a Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA), which uses pre-tax dollars for childcare expenses.
How long are typical waitlists for reputable daycare centers in Fort Lee, and what can I do to improve my chances of securing a spot?
Waitlists for highly-regarded daycare centers in Fort Lee can be substantial, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, especially for infant rooms which have the strictest capacity limits under NJ state law. To improve your chances, start your search and get on multiple lists as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before your needed start date. Be proactive: follow up with centers every 2-3 months to confirm your spot on the list and express continued interest. Consider expanding your search to include licensed family childcare homes in residential neighborhoods of Fort Lee, which may have shorter waitlists and offer a smaller, home-like setting. Being flexible with your start date, even by a few weeks, can also make a difference.
What are the key state licensing requirements and safety regulations I should verify when touring a daycare in Fort Lee?
All childcare centers in Fort Lee must be licensed by the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF). Key requirements you should verify include: **Staff-to-Child Ratios** (for infants 0-18 months, it's 1:4; for toddlers 18 months-2.5 years, it's 1:6), **Background Checks** for all staff, and **Staff Qualifications** (lead teachers must have a Child Development Associate credential or higher). Centers must also have comprehensive emergency plans, including for events like power outages or nearby industrial incidents relevant to the George Washington Bridge area. Ask about their sick child policy, immunization records for attendees, and how they secure the facility (e.g., coded entry systems). You can view a center's licensing history and any violations on the NJ DCF website.
Are there daycare options in Fort Lee that offer bilingual or language immersion programs, particularly in Korean or Mandarin?
Yes, Fort Lee's diverse community, with a significant Korean-American population, supports several daycare options with bilingual or language immersion programs. A number of centers and preschools offer Korean-English bilingual programs, where instruction and daily activities are conducted in both languages. There are also a few centers that provide Mandarin Chinese exposure or immersion, catering to families interested in early language acquisition. These programs are often in high demand. When researching, inquire specifically about the daily structure of language exposure, the qualifications of the bilingual staff (are they native speakers?), and whether the program follows a formal curriculum or is more conversational. Local community centers and cultural associations can sometimes be good resources for finding these specialized options.
What are the main differences between a large daycare center and a licensed family childcare home in Fort Lee, and how do I find licensed home-based providers?
The main differences lie in setting, scale, and often, flexibility. **Large Centers** are typically in commercial buildings, have multiple classrooms divided by age, follow a structured curriculum, and may offer extended hours. They often have larger staffs and more resources. **Licensed Family Childcare Homes** operate out of a provider's residence in Fort Lee neighborhoods, caring for a smaller, mixed-age group of children (up to 5, plus 3 school-age, under NJ law). They often provide a more home-like, flexible environment and may be more accommodating to non-standard hours. To find licensed homes, use the official New Jersey DCF "Child Care Search" tool online, which allows you to filter by location and type. You can also ask for recommendations in local parent groups on social media or through the Fort Lee Public Library, which often serves as a community hub for family resources. Always ensure any home provider is currently licensed by the state.