The Best Daycare Centers in Oakhurst, NJ
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Oakhurst. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Oakhurst
The Learning Experience - Ocean Township
The Learning Experience
The Learning Experience in nearby Ocean Township offers a comprehensive early education curriculum with proprietary programs like L.E.A.P. (Learning Experience Academic Program). This center features state-of-the-art facilities with secure entry systems, certified early childhood educators, and developmentally appropriate classrooms. Their curriculum emphasizes phonics, manners, and foreign language exposure. The facility includes indoor and outdoor play areas, and they maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Parents consistently praise the engaging learning environment and professional staff.
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Oakhurst Day School
Independent
Oakhurst Day School provides a nurturing educational environment with a play-based learning approach combined with structured academic preparation. The center features certified teachers with degrees in early childhood education, small class sizes, and a comprehensive curriculum that includes STEAM activities, music, and physical education. Safety is prioritized with secure access systems and comprehensive background checks for all staff. The facility includes age-appropriate playgrounds and modern classrooms designed to stimulate young minds while ensuring comfort and security.
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The Goddard School of Ocean Township
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in nearby Ocean Township offers a premier early childhood education program with F.L.EX. (Fun Learning Experience) curriculum that balances academic learning with creative play. The center features highly qualified faculty with ongoing professional development, purpose-built classrooms, and advanced security systems. Their program includes language development, literacy, mathematics, science, and social skills. Parents consistently highlight the school's excellent communication, clean facilities, and the noticeable developmental progress children make. The school maintains rigorous safety protocols and health standards.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Oakhurst, NJ
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare for an infant or toddler in Oakhurst, NJ?
In Oakhurst, NJ, full-time daycare costs are influenced by the type of facility and the child's age. For a licensed daycare center, you can expect to pay between $1,400 and $1,800 per month for infant care. Toddler care typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,600 per month. In-home family daycare providers in the area often charge slightly less, averaging $1,000 to $1,400 monthly. These rates are generally in line with the Monmouth County average. It's important to note that costs can vary based on specific program features, such as extended hours, curriculum, or included meals. Many facilities in Oakhurst require an annual registration fee as well. We recommend contacting providers directly for the most current pricing and to inquire about any available sibling discounts.
How do I verify that a daycare provider in Oakhurst is properly licensed and what are New Jersey's key regulations?
All licensed childcare providers in New Jersey are regulated by the Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Licensing. You can verify a provider's license status and view any past inspection reports by using the official "Child Care Search" tool on the NJ DCF website. Key state regulations for centers in Oakhurst include: a staff-to-child ratio of 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). All lead teachers must have a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or higher. Facilities must also pass rigorous health, safety, and fire inspections. When researching local options, always ask to see their current license and their most recent DCF inspection summary, which providers are required to make available to parents.
Are there long waitlists for daycare centers in Oakhurst, and when should I start my search?
Yes, due to high demand in the Oakhurst and surrounding Shore region, many reputable daycare centers have significant waitlists, especially for infant rooms. It is highly advisable to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally 6 to 12 months before your needed start date. Some popular centers in the area even recommend contacting them during pregnancy. Waitlists for toddler and preschool slots tend to be shorter but can still be several months long. When contacting providers, ask specific questions about their waitlist process: Is there a fee to join? How often should you check in? Is the list prioritized for siblings of current families? Starting early and getting on multiple lists increases your chances of securing a spot when you need it.
What types of childcare programs are most commonly available for preschoolers in Oakhurst?
Oakhurst offers a variety of preschool programs to suit different family needs. Common options include: 1) Full-day, year-round daycare centers with integrated preschool curricula, 2) Part-day preschools (often 2.5-3 hour sessions, 2-5 days a week) run by community organizations, churches, or private schools, and 3) Montessori or other specialized educational approaches. Many local programs follow the New Jersey Preschool Teaching and Learning Standards. A popular structure is a "wrap-around" program, where a child attends a part-day preschool and then transitions to an extended care program at the same or a different facility. Given Oakhurst's proximity to Ocean Township and Deal, many parents also consider programs in those neighboring towns, expanding the options for half-day enrichment or full-day care.
What local resources or referrals can help me find and evaluate daycare options in Oakhurst?
A key first step is to contact Child Care Resources of Monmouth County (CCR), a state-designated Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) agency. They offer free, personalized referrals to licensed providers in Oakhurst and can provide guidance on evaluating quality, understanding costs, and navigating financial assistance programs like New Jersey's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP). Additionally, local parenting groups on social media platforms (e.g., Facebook groups for Monmouth County moms) are invaluable for getting firsthand recommendations and reviews. The Oakhurst section of the Ocean Township School District website may also list approved preschool programs. Finally, don't underestimate the power of word-of-mouth; ask for recommendations from neighbors, your pediatrician (many local practices have lists), and other parents at community spots like the Oakhurst Swim & Tennis Club or the Ocean Township Public Library.