The Best Daycare Centers in Highlands, NJ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Highlands. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Highlands
The Learning Experience - Middletown
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Middletown offers a comprehensive early childhood education program serving families throughout the Monmouth County area, including Highlands. Their proprietary L.E.A.P. curriculum focuses on literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills through hands-on learning. The center features state-of-the-art security systems, including keypad entry and CCTV monitoring. All lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields, and the facility maintains low student-to-teacher ratios. The program includes enrichment activities like yoga, music, and philanthropy lessons, along with nutritious meals prepared on-site.
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Atlantic Highlands Early Learning Center
Independent
Atlantic Highlands Early Learning Center serves the Bayshore community including Highlands with a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum. The center emphasizes social-emotional development alongside academic readiness skills. Their secure facility features age-appropriate classrooms, outdoor play spaces, and a focus on nature-based learning. The staff includes certified teachers with backgrounds in early childhood education, and the center maintains excellent staff retention rates. Parents praise the center's warm environment, consistent communication, and individualized attention to each child's developmental needs.
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The Goddard School of Middletown
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Middletown provides high-quality early childhood education to families in the Highlands area through their F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience). The curriculum balances academic preparation with social development and creative expression. The facility features secure entry systems, modern classrooms, and age-appropriate playgrounds. All teachers meet or exceed state qualifications and participate in ongoing professional development. The school offers enrichment programs including Spanish, sign language, and yoga, along with flexible scheduling options to meet family needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Highlands, NJ
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Highlands, NJ?
In Highlands and the surrounding Monmouth County area, full-time daycare costs are generally above the state average. For an infant (under 18 months), you can expect to pay between $1,400 and $1,800 per month. For toddlers, costs typically range from $1,200 to $1,600 per month. These rates reflect the higher cost of living in the Jersey Shore region. It's important to note that prices can vary based on the type of facility (center-based vs. home-based), the specific programs offered, and whether meals are included. Some centers in the area may also charge registration or annual supply fees. We recommend contacting facilities directly for their most current rate sheets and inquiring about any available sibling discounts.
Are there any state or local subsidy programs to help with childcare costs for families in Highlands?
Yes, New Jersey offers several assistance programs. The primary program is Child Care Subsidy through WorkFirst New Jersey, administered by the Division of Family Development. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care (work, training, or education). Highlands residents apply through the Monmouth County Board of Social Services. Additionally, New Jersey's Child and Dependent Care Credit can be claimed on your state income tax return, which may provide significant savings. For local resources, you can contact the Monmouth County Department of Human Services or non-profits like The Source in Red Bank for guidance on navigating these programs and finding qualified providers in the Highlands area.
How long are waitlists for reputable daycare centers in the Highlands area, and when should I start looking?
Waitlists for highly-regarded daycare centers and preschools in Highlands and neighboring towns like Atlantic Highlands, Middletown, and Red Bank can be substantial, especially for infant rooms. It is not uncommon for waitlists to be 6 to 12 months long, and sometimes longer for peak enrollment periods (like fall). For infant care, we strongly recommend beginning your search and getting on waitlists as early as your second trimester of pregnancy. For toddler or preschool spots, start looking at least 6-9 months before your desired start date. Be prepared to place a non-refundable deposit to hold a spot. Staying flexible on your start date can sometimes help secure an opening sooner.
What should I look for when evaluating a home-based daycare versus a center-based program in Highlands?
Both options are licensed by the State of New Jersey, but they offer different environments. **Center-based programs** in Highlands (like The Goddard School or local chains) often have structured curricula, multiple classrooms by age, and larger staff teams. They may have more resources but can feel less personal. **Licensed Family Child Care Homes** offer a home-like setting, often with mixed-age groups, which can be beneficial for siblings. They may offer more flexible hours. For either, verify their current license is posted and check their inspection history online via NJ’s Child Care Search tool. Key questions include: staff-to-child ratios, caregiver qualifications and tenure, emergency procedures, daily schedules, outdoor play space (especially important in a shore community), and their policies on sick children. Visiting during operating hours is crucial to observe interactions.
What are the licensing requirements and staff-to-child ratios for daycare providers in New Jersey that I should verify?
New Jersey has strict licensing regulations enforced by the Office of Licensing within the Department of Children and Families. Key ratios for center-based care are: 1:4 for infants (under 18 months), 1:6 for toddlers (18 months to 2.5 years), and 1:10 for preschoolers (2.5 to 6 years). For family child care homes, a maximum of 5 children under 13 are allowed, with no more than 2 under 18 months. All lead teachers in centers must have a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or higher, and all staff must pass background checks and have ongoing training in health, safety, and development. You can verify a provider's license status, view inspection reports, and see any violations by using the official "Check Child Care License" search tool on the NJ DCF website. Always ensure the provider's license is current before enrolling.
Childcare Insights for Highlands
Finding quality, affordable childcare is one of the most significant challenges for families, and if you’re searching for “cheap daycare near me” in Highlands, New Jersey, you know this search is both practical and deeply personal. The good news is that with some local knowledge and a strategic approach, securing reliable and budget-friendly care in our tight-knit bayside community is entirely possible. The key is understanding what “affordable” means in our specific context and where to look beyond a simple online search.
In Highlands, your childcare landscape includes a mix of options. There are licensed daycare centers in nearby towns like Atlantic Highlands and Middletown, which may offer structured programs and potentially more competitive rates due to larger capacity. However, don’t overlook the incredible value of in-home family daycare providers right here in Highlands. These smaller, home-based settings often provide a more flexible, family-like atmosphere and can sometimes be more affordable than larger centers, as they have lower overhead costs. They are a cornerstone of childcare in our community, and finding a reputable one often happens through word-of-mouth. Start by asking for recommendations from neighbors at the marina, other parents at Huber Woods Park, or within local Facebook groups like those for Highlands residents. Personal referrals are gold.
When evaluating “cheap” daycare, it’s crucial to balance cost with quality and safety. Always verify that any provider, whether a center or a home, is licensed by the State of New Jersey. This ensures they meet basic health, safety, and staff training standards. Be prepared to ask detailed questions about their daily schedule, caregiver-to-child ratios, philosophy on learning and play, and policies on everything from meals to emergencies. A truly affordable option is one that gives you peace of mind, allowing you to work or manage your day without worry. Remember that costs in our area can be influenced by factors like whether meals are included or if there are extra fees for early drop-off or late pickup, which might be helpful for parents commuting along Route 36.
To make childcare more manageable financially, actively explore all available assistance. New Jersey offers several supportive programs. The state’s Child Care Subsidy Program helps eligible families with the cost of care. Additionally, you can look into the federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit, which can provide significant relief at tax time. It’s also worth contacting providers directly to ask if they offer any sibling discounts or sliding scale fees based on income. Sometimes, local community organizations or churches in the Bayshore region may sponsor affordable preschool or mother’s morning out programs that can supplement your childcare needs.
Ultimately, your search for affordable daycare in Highlands, NJ, is about finding a safe, nurturing place where your child can thrive without stretching your family budget to its limit. By tapping into local networks, doing thorough vetting, and utilizing financial support programs, you can find a solution that fits both your child’s needs and your financial reality. The perfect spot might be a cozy home on a quiet street in town or a recommended center just a short drive away, offering you the reassurance you need to start your day.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Highlands: