The Best Daycare Centers in Franklin, NJ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Franklin. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Franklin
The Learning Experience - Sparta
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Sparta serves the Franklin area with a comprehensive early childhood education program featuring their proprietary L.E.A.P. curriculum. The center emphasizes both academic and social development through structured learning activities, music, and physical education. Features include secure entry systems, certified early childhood educators, and age-appropriate learning environments. Their programs include phonics, foreign language introduction, and character development. The facility maintains excellent staff-to-child ratios and offers nutritious meal programs. Parents consistently praise the caring staff and strong educational foundation provided.
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Kiddie Academy of Sparta
Kiddie Academy
Kiddie Academy of Sparta provides educational childcare serving Franklin families with their Life Essentials curriculum that balances academic preparation with character development. The center features state-licensed teachers, secure facilities with keypad entry, and developmentally appropriate classrooms. Their program includes STEM activities, literacy development, and social-emotional learning. The academy maintains small class sizes and offers enrichment programs in music and movement. The facility includes both indoor and outdoor play areas designed for safe exploration and learning. Parents report high satisfaction with the communication and individualized attention.
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Sussex County YMCA Early Learning Center
Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges
The Sussex County YMCA Early Learning Center serves Franklin and surrounding communities with a play-based learning approach that emphasizes whole-child development. The YMCA's curriculum focuses on social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development through structured and unstructured play. The center features certified early childhood educators, secure facilities, and comprehensive safety protocols. Programs include swimming lessons for preschoolers, outdoor exploration, and character development aligned with YMCA values. The center offers flexible scheduling and financial assistance options. Parents appreciate the nurturing environment and focus on building confidence and independence in children.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Franklin, NJ
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Franklin, NJ?
In Franklin, NJ, full-time daycare costs can vary significantly based on the type of facility. For a licensed daycare center, parents can expect to pay between $1,200 and $1,600 per month for infant care. Toddler care typically ranges from $1,000 to $1,400 per month. Home-based family childcare providers in Sussex County often offer slightly lower rates, generally between $900 and $1,300 monthly for full-time care. These costs are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, and facility amenities. It's important to note that New Jersey does not have statewide price controls, so rates are set by individual providers. Many facilities in the area require an annual registration fee as well.
How do I verify that a daycare in Franklin is properly licensed and what should I look for during a tour?
All licensed childcare providers in New Jersey are regulated by the Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Licensing. You can verify a facility's license status and view any past inspection reports by using the "Child Care Search" tool on the official NJ DCF website. When touring a daycare in Franklin, be sure to ask to see their current license. During the visit, look for clear evidence of cleanliness, safe and age-appropriate toys, secure outdoor play areas, and posted emergency procedures. Ask about staff qualifications—New Jersey requires specific training in CPR, first aid, and child development. Also, inquire about their daily schedule, discipline policy, and how they communicate with parents. A quality provider will be transparent and welcome your questions.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Franklin, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, many daycare centers in Franklin and the surrounding Sussex County area maintain waitlists. It is highly recommended that expecting parents begin their search and get on waitlists during the second trimester of pregnancy, or at least 6-9 months before their needed start date. For toddler or preschool openings, 3-6 months of lead time is advisable. Some popular centers may have waitlists exceeding a year. When contacting providers, ask specifically about their waitlist process: if there's a fee, how often you need to check in, and their estimated timeline. Exploring a mix of centers and licensed family childcare homes can increase your chances of securing a spot.
What childcare assistance programs or tax benefits are available to families in Franklin, NJ?
New Jersey offers several programs to help offset childcare costs. The primary program is NJ Child Care Subsidy, administered by the Department of Human Services, which provides financial assistance to eligible low- and moderate-income families. You can apply through the NJ FamilyCare website. Additionally, all families can benefit from federal programs like the Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit. At the state level, New Jersey does not currently have a separate childcare tax credit, but it's wise to consult a tax professional. Local resources, such as the Sussex County Department of Social Services or United Way of Northern New Jersey, can also provide guidance and may have information on local scholarships or sliding-scale fee programs.
What are the options for part-time, drop-in, or after-school care in Franklin for school-aged children?
Franklin offers several options for non-full-time care. The Franklin Borough Public School District may provide a before and after-school care program (often called "Latchkey") for students in grades K-5; you should contact the district office directly for availability and registration. Additionally, local daycare centers often have after-school programs that include transportation from Franklin Elementary School. For more flexible or drop-in care, some licensed family childcare homes in the area may accommodate part-time schedules. The Franklin Recreation Department and the Franklin YMCA (though the nearest may be in Hardyston or Sparta) also frequently run after-school and school-break camps. It's best to contact these organizations well before the school year starts, as spaces can fill quickly.