The Best Daycare Centers in Howell, NJ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Howell. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Howell
The Goddard School of Howell
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Howell offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic readiness with social-emotional development. Their state-licensed teachers implement play-based learning through structured curriculum including STEAM activities, language arts, and creative arts. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play spaces. What sets this center apart is their focus on individualized learning plans, daily parent communication through their mobile app, and comprehensive safety protocols including regular staff training and health screenings.
Daycare Services:
Kiddie Academy of Howell
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Howell provides educational childcare with their Life Essentials® curriculum that focuses on character development, literacy, and STEM learning. The center features purpose-built classrooms with hands-on learning centers, secure keypad entry, and monitored playgrounds. Their highly qualified staff includes teachers with early childhood education degrees and ongoing professional development. The academy stands out for their technology-integrated classrooms, nutritious meal program prepared on-site, and comprehensive safety measures including background-checked staff and emergency preparedness protocols. Parents appreciate the regular progress updates and family engagement events.
Daycare Services:
The Learning Experience - Freehold
The Learning Experience
Located just minutes from Howell in Freehold, The Learning Experience serves many Howell families with their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates phonics, mathematics, and social skills development. The center features modern, bright classrooms, indoor gymnasium, and secure outdoor playgrounds. Their specialized programs include early literacy development, music and movement, and philanthropy curriculum. The facility maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and employs degreed early childhood educators. What makes this center exceptional is their focus on whole-child development, including their unique Manners Matter® program and comprehensive safety systems with 24/7 monitoring capabilities.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Howell, NJ
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Howell, NJ?
In Howell, NJ, the cost of full-time daycare varies based on the child's age and the type of facility. For infants (under 18 months), you can expect to pay between $1,400 and $1,800 per month at a licensed daycare center. For toddlers (18 months to 3 years), costs typically range from $1,200 to $1,600 per month. Home-based daycare providers (family childcare) in Howell often charge slightly less, averaging $1,000 to $1,400 monthly for full-time care. These rates are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios, curriculum, and facility amenities. It's important to note that these are average estimates, and prices can vary, so contacting individual providers for their current rates is essential.
How do I verify that a daycare in Howell is properly licensed and what should I look for during a tour?
All childcare providers in New Jersey must be licensed by the state's Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Licensing. You can verify a Howell provider's license status and view any past inspection reports by using the "Child Care Search" tool on the NJ DCF website. During an in-person tour, look for key indicators of quality and safety: a current license visibly posted, clean and child-proofed environments, age-appropriate toys and learning materials, secure outdoor play areas, and a posted emergency evacuation plan. Ask about staff qualifications, including background checks and ongoing training, and observe how caregivers interact with the children. In Howell, reputable centers will be transparent about their state compliance and welcome your questions.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Howell, and how far in advance should I start looking?
Yes, due to high demand, many reputable daycare centers in Howell, especially those for infants, often have significant waitlists. It is highly recommended that parents begin their search and get on waitlists during the second trimester of pregnancy, or at least 6 to 12 months before their desired start date. Some popular centers may have waitlists exceeding a year for infant spots. For toddler or preschool-aged care, a lead time of 3-6 months is more common but still advisable. When contacting centers, always ask about their current waitlist length, the deposit policy to hold a spot, and how often they update families on their status.
What are the options for part-time or flexible childcare schedules in Howell?
While full-time care is most common, Howell does offer several part-time and flexible options. Many daycare centers offer part-time schedules, such as 2, 3, or 4 days a week, though these spots can be limited and may not be available for infants. Preschool programs for children ages 3-5 often have half-day (morning or afternoon) sessions. For more flexibility, consider licensed family childcare homes, which may accommodate non-traditional hours, or explore nanny shares with other local families. Additionally, drop-in care is occasionally available at some local centers, but it's not widespread. Be sure to inquire directly with providers about their specific part-time policies and availability.
Does Howell, NJ offer any financial assistance or subsidy programs to help with childcare costs?
Yes, eligible families in Howell can apply for financial assistance through New Jersey's Child Care Subsidy Program, often referred to as "child care assistance" or "CCAP" (Child Care Assistance Program). This state-administered program helps low to moderate-income families pay for childcare so parents can work or attend school/ training. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and reason for care. Applications are processed through the Monmouth County Board of Social Services. Additionally, some local daycare centers may offer sibling discounts or limited scholarship opportunities. It's also worth checking if your employer offers a Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA), which uses pre-tax dollars for childcare expenses.
Childcare Insights for Howell
As a parent in Howell, New Jersey, the search for "daycare near me" is about more than just finding a convenient location; it's about discovering a nurturing environment where your child can thrive while you're at work. Howell, with its blend of suburban neighborhoods and access to natural spaces like the Manasquan Reservoir, offers a wonderful community to raise a family, and fortunately, several quality childcare options exist right here in our town. Beginning your search can feel overwhelming, but focusing on a few key local considerations can help you find the perfect fit for your little one.
One of the first practical steps is to understand the types of care available within the Howell area. You'll find everything from larger, established childcare centers, often located along Route 9 or near the Howell Town Center, to smaller, licensed family daycare homes nestled within our residential communities. Each offers distinct advantages; centers may provide structured curricula and multiple classrooms, while home-based settings often offer a cozy, family-like atmosphere with mixed-age groups. Given Howell's geography, considering your daily commute is crucial. A daycare off Route 9 might be perfect if you head towards Freehold or the shore for work, while a provider in the Adelphia or Ramtown sections could be ideal if your life revolves more locally.
When evaluating options, don't hesitate to ask very specific questions that matter to Howell parents. Inquire about their policies for outdoor playtime, especially given our beautiful Jersey summers and sometimes snowy winters. A good provider will have safe, engaging outdoor spaces and a clear plan for all weather conditions. It's also wise to ask about their communication with parents. Do they use apps to send photos and updates throughout the day? This connection can be a great comfort when you're just a few miles away. Make a point to visit any potential daycare during operating hours. Observe the cleanliness, the mood of the caregivers, and the engagement of the children. Trust your instincts as a parent—the feeling you get when you walk in is often the most telling sign.
Finally, leverage local resources to make an informed decision. Check the New Jersey Department of Children and Families website to verify the licensing status of any provider. Perhaps even more valuable, talk to other parents at the Howell Public Library's storytime, at local parks like Oak Glen Park, or in community Facebook groups. Personal recommendations from neighbors who understand the fabric of our town are invaluable. Remember, the right daycare in Howell will not only care for your child but will become a supportive partner in your parenting journey, helping your child learn, play, and grow right here in our community. Taking the time to find that partnership is one of the most important investments you can make for your family's peace of mind.