The Best Daycare Centers in Harrison, NJ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Harrison. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Harrison
The Goddard School of Harrison
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Harrison offers a comprehensive F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that focuses on academic readiness, social development, and creative expression. Their play-based curriculum is developed by early childhood education experts and includes STEAM learning, language arts, and character development. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The school maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and uses a digital daily communication system to keep parents informed about their child's activities and progress.
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Kiddie Academy of Kearny
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Located just minutes from Harrison, Kiddie Academy of Kearny provides Life Essentials® curriculum that balances education, play, and character development. Their program includes technology-enhanced learning, hands-on activities, and structured play that promotes cognitive, social, and physical development. The academy features secure facilities with coded entry systems, dedicated age-based classrooms, and safe outdoor play spaces. All staff members are CPR and First Aid certified, with lead teachers holding early childhood education credentials. The center emphasizes communication with parents through regular updates, parent-teacher conferences, and an interactive mobile app that shares daily reports and photos.
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ABC Preschool & Childcare Center
ABC Preschool & Childcare Center
ABC Preschool & Childcare Center in nearby Rutherford serves families throughout Hudson County including Harrison. Their educational approach combines Montessori principles with traditional early childhood education, focusing on individualized learning plans and hands-on exploration. The curriculum includes literacy development, mathematics readiness, science exploration, and creative arts. The center features modern security systems including surveillance cameras and secure entry, along with age-appropriate learning environments and outdoor playgrounds. Teachers are certified in early childhood education and receive continuous training in child development best practices. The center maintains an open-door policy for parents and provides regular developmental assessments and progress reports.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Harrison, NJ
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Harrison, NJ?
In Harrison, NJ, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the type of facility and the child's age. For center-based care, you can expect to pay between $1,200 to $1,800 per month for an infant, and slightly less for toddlers, typically ranging from $1,000 to $1,500 per month. Home-based family daycare is often more affordable, averaging $800 to $1,200 monthly. These costs are influenced by factors such as the provider's licensing, staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, and included amenities like meals. It's important to note that Harrison's proximity to New York City can drive prices higher than in more suburban parts of New Jersey. We recommend contacting several providers directly for precise rates and inquiring about any available subsidies or sibling discounts.
How do I verify that a daycare provider in Harrison is properly licensed and what are New Jersey's key regulations?
All licensed childcare providers in New Jersey, including those in Harrison, are regulated by the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Licensing. You can verify a provider's license status and view any inspection reports by using the "Child Care Search" tool on the NJ DCF website. Key state regulations include strict staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants under 18 months), comprehensive background checks for all employees, mandatory health and safety training, and regular facility inspections. In Harrison, providers must also comply with local fire and health department codes. Always ask to see a provider's current license during your visit and check for any violations to ensure your child's safety.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Harrison, and how can I secure a spot?
Yes, due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, many reputable daycare centers in Harrison do have waitlists, often several months long. This is particularly true for centers affiliated with major employers or those with high ratings. To secure a spot, start your search at least 6-9 months before you need care. Contact multiple centers to get on their waitlists, and be prepared to pay a non-refundable application or waitlist fee (typically $50-$100). Consider expanding your search to include licensed family daycare homes in residential neighborhoods of Harrison, which may have shorter waitlists. Staying in regular, polite contact with your preferred centers can also improve your chances.
What resources are available in Harrison to help low-income families afford childcare?
Low-income families in Harrison have access to state and federal assistance programs. The primary resource is New Jersey's Child Care Subsidy Program (often called "child care assistance" or "CCAP"), administered by the NJ Department of Human Services. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work/training requirements. You can apply through the NJ FamilyCare website or your local county welfare agency (for Hudson County, which includes Harrison). Additionally, organizations like the United Way of Hudson County and the Harrison Family Success Center can provide guidance and referrals to affordable local options and may offer supplemental support services.
What are some of the key factors to consider when touring a daycare facility in Harrison?
When touring a daycare in Harrison, go beyond the basics. First, observe the cleanliness, safety (outlet covers, secure gates), and overall atmosphere—is it bright, cheerful, and child-friendly? Second, watch how staff interact with children; they should be engaged, patient, and responsive. Third, ask about their educational philosophy, daily schedule, and how they handle discipline and communication with parents. Fourth, inquire about staff qualifications, turnover rates, and the specific adult-to-child ratios they maintain. Finally, consider practicalities: their sick policy, hours of operation (especially if you commute to NYC), meal provisions, and outdoor play space. Trust your instincts about whether the environment feels warm and secure for your child.