The Best Daycare Centers in Hackensack, NJ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Hackensack. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Hackensack
The Goddard School of Hackensack
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Hackensack offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their state-licensed teachers implement play-based learning through STEAM curriculum, literacy development, and hands-on activities. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play spaces. They emphasize individualized learning plans, regular parent communication through daily reports, and nutritional meal programs. The school maintains low student-teacher ratios and employs degreed early childhood educators with ongoing professional development.
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Kiddie Academy of Hackensack
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Hackensack provides comprehensive educational childcare with their proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, math, and science. The academy features secure facilities with coded entry systems, modern classrooms with interactive technology, and dedicated outdoor play areas. Their highly qualified staff includes certified early childhood educators who implement developmentally appropriate practices and maintain detailed progress reports. The program emphasizes health and fitness, nutrition with USDA-approved meals, and community involvement. They offer flexible scheduling and maintain excellent staff retention rates with ongoing professional training.
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Bright Horizons at Paramus
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Bright Horizons at Paramus serves families throughout Bergen County including Hackensack residents with their World at Their Fingertips® curriculum that integrates emergent learning with structured academic preparation. The center features purpose-built classrooms, secure environments with comprehensive safety protocols, and natural outdoor learning spaces. Their degreed teachers implement project-based learning, literacy-rich environments, and STEAM activities aligned with NAEYC standards. The program emphasizes social-emotional development, cultural awareness, and school readiness skills. They maintain excellent teacher-child ratios and offer comprehensive health and safety measures including rigorous cleaning protocols and secure check-in systems.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Hackensack, NJ
What are the typical costs for infant daycare in Hackensack, NJ, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Hackensack, the average weekly cost for full-time infant daycare ranges from $350 to $450, depending on the center's amenities, curriculum, and staff-to-child ratios. Preschool programs for older children are generally slightly less expensive. For financial assistance, Bergen County residents can apply for New Jersey's Child Care Subsidy Program (often called "child care assistance") through the New Jersey Department of Human Services. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work or school requirements. Additionally, some local centers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees. It's highly recommended to contact the Hackensack Human Services Department or the Bergen County Board of Social Services for personalized guidance on available subsidies.
How can I verify if a daycare center in Hackensack is properly licensed and check its compliance history?
All licensed childcare centers in New Jersey are regulated by the Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Licensing. To verify a center's license and review its history, you can use the state's online "Child Care Search" tool. This public database allows you to search by facility name or location (Hackensack, NJ) and view the license status, capacity, and any serious compliance violations or inspection reports. For a more detailed record, you can submit a formal OPRA (Open Public Records Act) request to the DCF. Always visit a center in person and ask to see their current license, which should be posted visibly.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Hackensack, and when should I start my search for an infant spot?
Yes, waitlists are very common for infant and toddler rooms at highly-regarded daycare centers in Hackensack, due to high demand and limited capacity dictated by New Jersey's strict staff-to-child ratios. For an infant spot (children under 18 months), it is advisable to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as your second trimester of pregnancy. Many families secure a spot 6 to 12 months in advance. When touring centers, always ask about their specific waitlist process, any associated fees, and how often they update families on their position. Exploring options in neighboring towns like Teaneck or Maywood can also provide more availability.
What are some of the key differences between a daycare center and a family childcare home in Hackensack?
In Hackensack, you'll find both licensed childcare centers and registered family childcare homes. Centers are larger facilities, often with multiple classrooms, structured curricula, and multiple staff members. They are typically open standard business hours. Family childcare homes operate out of the provider's residence, offering a smaller, home-like environment with mixed-age groups, which can be beneficial for siblings. They may offer more flexible hours. Both are licensed by the state but have different regulations; for example, homes have a smaller maximum capacity. Your choice depends on your child's temperament, your schedule, and whether you prefer a structured educational setting or a more intimate family atmosphere.
Beyond basic licensing, what quality indicators should I look for when touring daycare centers in Hackensack?
Look for signs of a high-quality program that go beyond the state minimums. Key indicators include: low staff turnover (ask about staff tenure), caregivers who are engaged at the children's level, a clean and safe environment with age-appropriate toys, and a clear daily schedule that balances play, learning, and rest. Inquire about staff qualifications—many top centers in Bergen County have teachers with degrees in early childhood education. Ask about their philosophy (e.g., Montessori, play-based, academic) and how they communicate with parents (daily reports, apps like Brightwheel). Also, observe if the children appear happy and engaged. Checking online reviews and asking for parent references can provide further insight.