The Best Daycare Centers in Norwood, NJ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Norwood. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Norwood
The Learning Experience - Harrington Park
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in Harrington Park serves Norwood families with a comprehensive early childhood education program featuring their proprietary L.E.A.P. curriculum. The center offers state-of-the-art facilities with secure entry systems, certified early childhood educators, and developmentally appropriate learning environments. Their program includes foreign language exposure, philanthropy curriculum, and movement programs. The center maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios and provides nutritious meals and snacks. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, clean facilities, and strong educational foundation provided to children.
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The Goddard School of Old Tappan
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in Old Tappan provides high-quality early childhood education to Norwood area families with a play-based learning approach. The F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program encourages children to develop cognitive, social, and emotional skills through structured play. The school features secure facilities with keypad entry, outdoor playgrounds, and age-appropriate classrooms. All lead teachers have four-year degrees in education or related fields, and the curriculum includes STEAM learning, literacy development, and social skills. The center is known for its excellent communication with parents and individualized attention to each child's development.
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Harrington Park Nursery School
Harrington Park Nursery School
Harrington Park Nursery School is a highly-regarded nonprofit preschool serving Norwood and surrounding communities with a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum. The school focuses on social-emotional development while preparing children for kindergarten through structured learning activities. The facility features bright, well-equipped classrooms, an outdoor nature exploration area, and a dedicated art studio. Experienced early childhood educators create a nurturing environment with small class sizes and low student-teacher ratios. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, creative expression, and building foundational academic skills through engaging, age-appropriate activities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Norwood, NJ
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Norwood, NJ, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Norwood, NJ, the cost for full-time daycare or preschool can vary significantly based on the type of facility and the child's age. For an infant, you can expect to pay between $1,400 and $1,800 per month at a licensed center. For toddlers and preschoolers, costs typically range from $1,100 to $1,500 per month. Home-based family childcare is often slightly less expensive. These rates are influenced by Bergen County's higher cost of living. For financial assistance, New Jersey's Child Care Subsidy Program (through WorkFirst NJ) is available for qualifying families based on income and work/training requirements. Additionally, some local centers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees. It's advisable to contact the Norwood Borough administration or the Bergen County Department of Human Services for the most current information on local subsidies and to check with individual providers about their specific policies.
How long are the waitlists for daycare centers in Norwood, and when should I start looking for infant care?
Due to high demand and limited slots, especially for infants, waitlists at reputable daycare centers in Norwood and the surrounding Bergen County area can be quite long, often ranging from 6 to 12 months, and sometimes longer. It is strongly recommended that expecting parents begin researching and touring facilities as early as the second trimester of pregnancy. Many parents in Norwood find themselves placing their child on multiple waitlists to secure a spot. When inquiring, be sure to ask about the specific waitlist policy, including any non-refundable deposit to hold a spot, the estimated timeline, and how often you should check in for updates.
What are the key differences between licensed childcare centers and registered family childcare homes in Norwood, and how do I verify their licensing?
In Norwood, licensed childcare centers are larger facilities, often with multiple classrooms and staff, operating in commercial spaces. They must adhere to strict New Jersey state regulations regarding staff-to-child ratios, staff qualifications, safety, and curriculum. Registered family childcare homes are smaller, run out of a provider's residence, and can care for up to 5 children. They also follow state regulations but in a home-like setting. To verify the licensing and inspection history of any provider, you must use the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF) Child Care Search tool online. This public database shows the provider's license status, capacity, any serious violations, and inspection reports. Always confirm this information directly during your visit.
Are there part-time or flexible childcare options available in Norwood for parents with non-traditional work schedules?
Finding part-time or flexible-hour care in Norwood can be challenging but not impossible. Most traditional daycare centers operate on a standard Monday-Friday, 7:00 am to 6:00 pm schedule and often require full-time enrollment to guarantee a spot. However, some centers may offer part-time slots (e.g., 2 or 3 days a week) if available. Your best bet for true flexibility—such as evenings, weekends, or overnight care—is often a registered family childcare home or a nanny share arrangement with other local families. You can also explore local babysitting networks or apps that cater to Bergen County. Be upfront about your schedule needs when touring facilities, as some smaller home-based providers may be able to accommodate more individualized arrangements.
What should I look for during a tour of a potential daycare in Norwood, and are there any local resources to help with the selection process?
During a tour in Norwood, look beyond the basics. Observe the cleanliness and safety of the environment, the interaction between staff and children (are they engaged and responsive?), and the overall atmosphere. Ask specific questions about their curriculum for different age groups, staff turnover rates, emergency procedures, and their policy on sick children. Inquire about outdoor play access, especially given Norwood's residential setting. For local resources, start with the Norwood Public Library, which may have community bulletin boards with childcare information. The **Bergen Family Center** and **4C's of Bergen County** (Child Care Coordinating Council) are invaluable regional organizations that offer referral services, parenting workshops, and guidance on choosing quality care that aligns with New Jersey's Grow NJ Kids quality rating system.