The Best Daycare Centers in Matawan, NJ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Matawan. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Matawan
The Goddard School
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Matawan offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX.® Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that balances academic learning with creative play. Their curriculum focuses on literacy, STEM, art, and physical development with low student-to-teacher ratios. The facility features secure entry systems, modern classrooms with age-appropriate learning centers, and outdoor playgrounds. All teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and receive ongoing professional development. The school emphasizes individualized learning plans and regular parent communication through daily reports and parent-teacher conferences.
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Kiddie Academy of Aberdeen
Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care
Kiddie Academy of Aberdeen serves the Matawan area with their Life Essentials® curriculum that integrates character development, technology, and hands-on learning. The academy features secure facilities with keypad entry, comprehensive safety protocols, and sanitization procedures. Their program includes Spanish language exposure, music and movement, and technology integration for older children. The highly qualified staff maintains state-mandated ratios and receives continuous training in early childhood development. Parents appreciate the transparent communication through the Academy Link® mobile app and the nutritious meal program included in tuition.
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The Learning Experience - Old Bridge
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Old Bridge serves Matawan families with their proprietary L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum that incorporates phonics, mathematics, and science. The center features state-of-the-art security systems including CCTV monitoring and secure check-in procedures. Their program includes unique offerings like philanthropy curriculum, yoga, and music classes. The facility includes multiple age-appropriate playgrounds, interactive whiteboards, and dedicated art and movement spaces. Teachers maintain CPR and First Aid certifications and participate in ongoing professional development. The center is known for its strong emphasis on social-emotional development and school readiness.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Matawan, NJ
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Matawan, NJ?
In Matawan, NJ, full-time daycare costs can vary significantly based on the type of center, age of the child, and included services. For an infant (under 18 months), you can expect to pay between $1,400 and $1,800 per month at a licensed center. For toddlers (18 months to 3 years), costs typically range from $1,200 to $1,600 per month. Home-based daycare programs (family childcare) in the area often offer slightly lower rates, ranging from $900 to $1,300 monthly. These costs are influenced by factors like staff-to-child ratios (strictly enforced under New Jersey state licensing), curriculum (e.g., Montessori vs. play-based), and whether meals are provided. It's advisable to budget for potential annual increases and inquire about any registration or supply fees, which are common.
How do I verify that a daycare in Matawan is properly licensed and what should I look for in inspection records?
All childcare centers in Matawan must be licensed by the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Licensing. You can verify a center's license status and view its inspection reports online through the NJ DCF Child Care Search portal. When reviewing records, look for the license expiration date to ensure it's current. Pay close attention to any "violations" noted during inspections. In New Jersey, these are categorized by severity. Look for patterns of repeat violations, especially concerning health and safety (e.g., sanitation, safe sleep practices for infants, background checks for staff) or supervision ratios. A clean record is ideal, but a center that has corrected past violations may demonstrate responsiveness. You can also call the DCF's local licensing office for the region covering Matawan for additional context.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Matawan, and when should I start my search?
Yes, waitlists are common for many daycare centers in Matawan, particularly for infant rooms due to New Jersey's low staff-to-child ratio requirements (1:4). For popular centers, waitlists can be 6 to 12 months long, or even longer. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin touring facilities and getting on waitlists during their second trimester of pregnancy. For toddler and preschool spots, starting your search at least 4-6 months in advance is prudent. When contacting centers, ask specific questions about their waitlist: Is there a fee to join? How often is the list updated? Do they give priority to siblings or current families? Exploring options in neighboring towns like Aberdeen, Keyport, or Old Bridge can also provide more availability.
What are some of the key differences between center-based daycare and licensed family childcare homes in Matawan?
The two primary licensed options in Matawan offer distinct environments. **Center-Based Daycare** is often in a commercial building, has multiple classrooms divided by age, a larger staff team, and may follow a structured curriculum (like Creative Curriculum). They typically have set hours (e.g., 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM) and are closed on major holidays. **Licensed Family Childcare Homes** operate out of a provider's residence, caring for a smaller, mixed-age group of children (up to 5, depending on license type). This can offer a more home-like, flexible atmosphere and often has more variable hours. Costs are generally lower. A key consideration is backup care; if a family childcare provider is sick, care may be unavailable, whereas centers have substitute staff. Both are regulated by NJ DCF, but inspection frequency and some rules differ. Visiting both types is the best way to determine the right fit for your child's temperament.
Besides basic care, what enrichment or specialized programs do Matawan daycares commonly offer for preschool-aged children?
Many daycare centers in Matawan serving children ages 3-5 integrate structured preschool programs into their daily schedule to prepare children for kindergarten. Common enrichments include: **Early Literacy & Math Programs** using tools like Handwriting Without Tears; **Foreign Language Exposure**, often Spanish; **Physical Education** or structured outdoor play; and **Music & Movement** classes. Some centers partner with external vendors for weekly sessions like soccer (Soccer Shots), dance, or science exploration. You'll also find centers with a specific educational philosophy, such as Montessori (emphasizing child-led learning) or Reggio Emilia (project-based). Additionally, given Matawan's proximity to the shore, some programs may incorporate nature and environmental themes. Always ask for a sample weekly schedule and how progress is communicated to parents.