The Best Daycare Centers in Lakehurst, NJ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lakehurst. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lakehurst
The Goddard School of Toms River
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School of Toms River 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-of-the-art facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Certified teachers implement play-based learning with STEAM curriculum elements, focusing on literacy, mathematics, and social skills. The center maintains low student-to-teacher ratios and provides daily communication through their proprietary app. Safety protocols include comprehensive background checks, CPR-certified staff, and rigorous cleaning procedures.
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Kiddie Academy of Toms River
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Toms River provides comprehensive educational childcare with their Life Essentials® curriculum that emphasizes character development, technology integration, and hands-on learning. The academy features modern security systems including keypad entry, surveillance cameras, and strict pick-up authorization procedures. Their dedicated staff includes early childhood educators with specialized training in developmental milestones. The program includes nutritious meal plans, outdoor recreational spaces, and technology-enhanced learning stations. Parent engagement is facilitated through regular progress reports, family events, and real-time communication via the Kiddie Academy mobile app.
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Imagination Station Early Learning Center
Independent
Imagination Station Early Learning Center offers a nurturing environment with a balanced approach to early childhood education, combining structured academic preparation with creative exploration. Their curriculum focuses on literacy development, mathematical thinking, and social skills through thematic units and hands-on activities. The center features secure facilities with coded entry systems, fenced playgrounds, and age-appropriate learning materials. Experienced teachers hold early childhood certifications and participate in ongoing professional development. The program includes enrichment activities such as music, movement, and introductory Spanish, along with comprehensive safety protocols and health monitoring procedures.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lakehurst, NJ
What are the licensing requirements for daycare centers in Lakehurst, NJ, and how can I verify a provider is compliant?
In Lakehurst, all childcare centers and family daycare homes serving more than five children must be licensed by the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Licensing. This involves rigorous background checks for staff, regular health and safety inspections, and adherence to strict staff-to-child ratios based on age. To verify a provider's compliance and view their licensing history, including any violations, you can use the NJ DCF's "Child Care Search" tool online. It's also recommended to visit the facility in person and ask to see their current license, which should be posted prominently.
What is the average cost of full-time infant daycare in Lakehurst, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In the Lakehurst and broader Ocean County area, full-time infant daycare typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,600 per month. Costs can vary based on the center's amenities, curriculum, and staff credentials. For financial assistance, New Jersey's Child Care Subsidy Program (often called "child care assistance") is available for eligible families based on income, work, or school requirements. You can apply through the Ocean County Board of Social Services. Additionally, some local centers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees, so it's always worth asking directly.
Are waitlists common for daycare centers in Lakehurst, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Yes, waitlists are common, especially for infant and toddler rooms at highly-regarded centers in Lakehurst and the surrounding communities. Due to high demand and limited infant slots (dictated by strict state ratios), it is strongly advised to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally 6 to 12 months before you need care. Many parents start the process during pregnancy. When touring facilities, always ask about their current waitlist length and estimated timeline for openings.
What types of childcare options are most available in Lakehurst—centers, home-based care, or preschools?
Lakehurst offers a mix of options, though the number of large centers within the immediate borough is limited. Parents often find licensed family childcare homes within residential neighborhoods and commute to larger childcare centers or preschools in neighboring towns like Toms River, Manchester, or Lakewood. There are also part-time preschool programs for children ages 3-5, often affiliated with local churches or community organizations. For school-age children, the Lakehurst School District provides a before and after-care program at the Lakehurst Elementary School.
How does New Jersey's "Grow NJ Kids" rating system work, and are there rated programs near Lakehurst?
Grow NJ Kids is New Jersey's voluntary quality rating and improvement system (QRIS) for licensed childcare programs. It rates programs on a scale of 1 to 5 stars based on criteria like learning environment, staff qualifications, and family engagement. A higher star rating indicates a higher level of quality. While not all programs participate, seeking a rated center is a great way to identify quality care. Several programs in Ocean County, including centers in nearby Toms River and Manchester, participate in Grow NJ Kids. You can search for rated programs on the Grow NJ Kids website to compare options within a reasonable commute from Lakehurst.
Childcare Insights for Lakehurst
As a parent in Lakehurst, New Jersey, the search for quality and affordable childcare is a top priority. Understanding daycare prices near you involves more than just comparing hourly rates; it's about finding the right balance of care, safety, and value for your family. In our community, daycare costs are influenced by several local factors, including the type of care, the age of your child, and the specific programs offered. Generally, you can expect a range in pricing that reflects the diverse options available to Lakehurst families.
For infants and toddlers, full-time care in a licensed center often represents a significant investment, typically ranging higher due to the required lower caregiver-to-child ratios. In the Lakehurst area, you might find weekly rates for infant care starting from a certain point and varying based on the facility's amenities and curriculum. For preschool-aged children, prices may become slightly more manageable as ratios increase. It's important to note that home-based daycare providers, often licensed family childcare homes, can be a wonderful and sometimes more budget-friendly alternative right here in our town. These settings often provide a cozy, home-like environment and can offer more flexible hours that might align better with the schedules of military families connected to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst or those with non-traditional work hours.
When evaluating "daycare prices near me" in Lakehurst, always look beyond the sticker price. A higher weekly rate might include essentials like diapers, wipes, and nutritious meals, which can add up quickly if purchased separately. Many centers also include enrichment activities, such as early literacy programs or introductory music classes, within their tuition. Be sure to ask each provider for a detailed breakdown of what is included. Additionally, don't hesitate to inquire about potential financial support. New Jersey offers assistance programs like Child Care Subsidy through WorkFirst NJ, and some local centers may have sliding scale fees or sibling discounts that can make a substantial difference for your household budget.
A practical step is to create a shortlist of providers in Lakehurst and the immediate surrounding areas like Manchester or Toms River, and schedule in-person tours. This allows you to see the environment, meet the caregivers, and get a concrete feel for the value behind the cost. Trust your instincts about the warmth and professionalism of the staff. Finally, remember that the most affordable option isn't always the right fit. Investing in a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment for your child during these formative years is an investment in their future. By taking the time to research and visit local options, you can find a childcare solution in Lakehurst that provides peace of mind and fits within your family's financial plan.
Nearby Cities
Explore daycare options in cities near Lakehurst: